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Research Funding Guide

The following organizations are interested in funding orthotics and prosthetics research. Below are brief descriptions of each organization and links to its website.

National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR)

Long-term, disability-focused research to improve independence, community participation, and employment.

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NIDILRR generates knowledge and promotes its use for people with disabilities across all ages and disability types, emphasizing longer-term outcomes over acute care.

National Institutes of Health (NIH)

Multiple institutes fund O&P research (e.g., NICHD/NCMRR) with diverse grant mechanisms.


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The NIH includes 27 institutes/centers. The Eunice Kennedy Shriver NICHD and the NCMRR coordinate O&P-related work. Programs include training (T/F), career (K), research (R), and center grants (P). See NIH Grants & Funding.

National Science Foundation (NSF)

Funds fundamental science/engineering, including high-risk, high-reward ideas and novel collaborations.

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The NSF supports all fields and integrates research with education to train tomorrow’s leaders.

Orthotics & Prosthetics Foundation for Education and Research

Scholarships, training awards, research grants, and recognition advancing O&P education and practice.

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The Foundation advances the art and science of O&P via funding and professional development programs.

Department of Defense (DoD) – CDMRP/OPORP

Patient-centric outcomes research for Service members, Veterans, and civilians with limb loss/impairment.

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The CDMRP funds biomedical research. The OPORP focuses on orthoses/prostheses outcomes with evolving mechanisms and focus areas each year.

Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Research & Development

Rehabilitation R&D funds O&P projects; Career Development Awards support junior investigators.

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The VA ORD targets Veteran health needs. The Rehabilitation R&D Service funds O&P research; the Career Development Award offers mentored pathways (applications accepted twice per year).