Advancing NAD+ science for global impact
Niagen Research Program™
Formerly the ChromaDex External Research Program (CERP®)
What is the Niagen Research Program?
Investigator-driven research, backed by the industry leader in NAD+ science
The Niagen Research Program™ provides qualified investigators with high-purity Niagen® materials, technical expertise, and regulatory support for independent, investigator-initiated studies. The program also conducts and leads clinical research advancing the science of NAD+ precursors.
With 300+ research agreements across 30+ countries, supporting 200+ peer-reviewed publications, it represents the most extensive collaborative NAD+ research infrastructure in the field.
Why Partner with the Niagen Research Program?
The global standard for NAD+ research
Over 95% of studies conducted through the program are investigator-initiated and third-party funded. We provide rigorously characterized Niagen®, regulatory documentation, and scientific consultation, with no influence over research outcomes.
We evaluate applications across a broad range of study designs, from preclinical mechanistic work to randomized controlled trials, and provide materials and support under a Material Transfer Agreement.
Our impact at a glance
PARTNER WITH NIAGEN RESEARCH PROGRAM
Research-grade materials you can publish on
Niagen® (NRCl) is the only patented nicotinamide riboside product with comprehensive worldwide regulatory approvals. The crystalline formulation delivers high purity and batch-to-batch consistency, critical for reproducible outcomes and peer-reviewed publication.
The program provides Niagen® for oral research applications, pharmaceutical-grade Niagen for alternative routes of administration (intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous), and novel NAD+ precursor materials to support a full range of investigational approaches.
Comprehensive Regulatory Validation
- FDA-notified New Dietary Ingredient (NDI)
- Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status
- European Food Safety Authority positive opinion
- Health Canada natural health product approval
- Australian TGA complementary medicine approval
- ISO-accredited laboratory analysis
Research Support
- Expert protocol recommendations
- Regulatory documentation support
- Grant writing assisstance
- Intellectual property insights
- Technical consultation throughout your study
Trainee Grant Program
The Niagen Research Program awards grants to graduate students and postdoctoral trainees pursuing investigator-initiated research in exercise performance, recovery, fatigue, and adaptation, supporting the next generation of scientists working at the frontier of NAD+ biology.
Grant applications for the next cycle will open in 2027.
Award-winning excellence
Nutritional Outlook 2019 Best Ingredient Supplier (Niagen)
NutraIngredients EU 2022 Nutrition ResearchProject Award
NutraIngredients EU 2024 Healthy Aging Ingredient of the Year Award
Research priority areas
We're currently partnering with academic researchers using nicotinamide riboside and Niagen Bioscience materials to advance understanding in:
Dermatologic (topical) & cosmetic science*
Cognitive function*
Cellular energy metabolism*
Cardiovascular health*
Immune response & inflammation*
Exercise & muscle performance*
Reproductive health* Sleep quality*
Pharmaceutical-grade nicotinamide riboside (alternative routes of administration)*
Selection process
Applications require completed study protocols and institutional ethical approvals prior to submission. Our scientific review team evaluates all applications across study design, feasibility, and alignment with program priorities. Responses are typically provided within 30 days. Approved projects receive materials and ongoing technical support under a Material Transfer Agreement.
To discuss your research inquiry, contact the Niagen Research Program team at research@niagenbio.com.