The Mentored Career Development Program provides opportunities for basic and clinical research scientists to pursue additional periods of supervised career development beyond postdoctoral training. Investigators in the initial phases of establishing research careers utilize this mentored career program to gain additional expertise in new areas or in areas that would significantly enhance their scientific career potential. Sponsoring institutions and mentors play important roles in the success of this initiative. Upon completion of the mentored research experience, investigators are expected to become competitive independent scientists capable of pursuing research issues relevant to the mission of the National Institute of Mental Health.