HERO
NASA’s Human Research Program (HRP) periodically funds research that addresses risks and knowledge gaps associated with human spaceflight. Interested scientists can apply for this funding through designated Human Exploration Research Opportunities (HERO).
HERO Overview
Research supported by HRP falls under the umbrella of one or more of HRP’s five elements: Space Radiation, Human Health Countermeasures, Exploration Medical Capability, Human Factors and Behavioral Performance, and Research Operations and Integration.
Learn About HERO
Current Opportunities
Do You Have Proposals for New Human Research Studies Benefiting Spaceflight?
NASA is now accepting proposals for an open 2025 Human Exploration Research Opportunity (HERO) in support of HRP.
NSPIRES
For other research opportunities open through the space agency, browse the NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System (NSPIRES).
Before You Apply…
HRP recommends that you familiarize yourself with the following resources to strengthen your application.
Human Research Roadmap
The Human Research Roadmap provides an overview of the risks and knowledge gaps that HRP associates with human spaceflight.
NASA Grant Guide
NASA provides comprehensive policy guidance on the pre-award, award, post-award, and closeout phases of the grant management life cycle.
HRP Grant Guides
The NASA Life Sciences Portal provides downloadable guides that explain how to navigate various HRP grants.
DAPR
HRP evaluates proposals using dual-anonymous peer review (DAPR), which ensures that proposers and reviewers remain unaware of their respective identities.
Past HERO Award Announcements
Search for Specific Awardees
Explore NASA's Task Book to find awarded research projects supported by HRP. Visitors to the NASA Task Book can view project descriptions, annual progress, final reports, and bibliographical listings of publications resulting from NASA-funded studies.
Visit NASA's Task Book
