An Assistant Clinical Investigator is an NIH employee on a time-limited appointment. Assistant Clinical Investigators are chosen through a selective merit-based process that extends beyond the NIH. The position represents a commitment by the IC of independent resources, including salary, operating budget, personnel, and space. There must also be a mentoring plan. Research resources are adjusted based on scientific merit, based on recommendations of the Board of Scientific Counselors.

The Assistant Clinical Investigator is a position designation for scientists whose abilities and focus in research make them candidates for tenure-track positions at the NIH, for which they may compete. As such, individuals in this position are on a career path that ultimately, if successful, may lead to formal consideration for tenure-track and tenure.

Appointments are made in Title 42 for 3 years, with two possible 1-year extensions. The appointment and resources allocated should be documented in a letter of agreement filed with the Deputy Director for Intramural Research, along with the candidate's CV.

Further details can be found in the approval memo.