NIH raises compensation levels for NRSA scholars
The NIH recently announced plans to raise annual pay levels for pre- and postdoctoral scholars supported by the Kirschstein National Research Service Awards (NRSA) at NIH-funded external institutions over the next five years. In FY24, predoctoral scholars will see an approximate 4% increase, bringing their pay level to $28,224, while postdoctoral scholars will experience an approximate 8% increase, with pay levels starting at $61,008 and varying based on years of experience.
Additionally, eligible individuals will receive a $500 boost in childcare subsidies and an extra $200 for training-related expenses. NIH Director Monica Bertagnolli has endorsed the recommendations, although the agency anticipates a slight decrease in the total number of NRSA awards due to current funding levels. NIH aims to further increase stipend funding levels over the next few years to achieve the advisory group’s suggested starting pay level of $70,000 annually for postdoctoral NRSAs, pending future appropriations.
For more information on these pay increases, refer to the official notice from the NIH.
Senate Armed Services Committee announces FY25 NDAA timeline
In a press release on April 9, committee leaders announced their timeline for considering the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY25. The NDAA is a must-pass bill that sets the Pentagon’s policy agenda and authorizes how the Department of Defense can use federal funding. Portions of the NDAA will be considered in subcommittee on June 11 and 12. The NDAA will be considered by the full committee June 12-14. A more detailed schedule will be released later.