Molecular and Neural Mechanisms of Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation to Treat Substance Use Disorders

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), a branch of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is forecasting a funding opportunity aimed at exploring the molecular and neural mechanisms of non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) to treat substance use disorders (SUDs). This grant initiative is part of NIDA’s broader efforts to develop and refine treatments for addiction through the integration of emerging scientific research and therapeutic technologies. This forecasted opportunity is designed to support basic research using animal models to investigate how various NIBS techniques—such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), and transcranial focused ultrasound (tFUS)—impact the brain's molecular, cellular, and neural circuit functions. These techniques have shown potential in human studies as treatments for addiction, but the precise biological mechanisms behind their therapeutic effects remain insufficiently understood. The goal of the grant is to help uncover the fundamental processes that underpin the effectiveness of NIBS, which in turn can guide the optimization of clinical treatment parameters. The anticipated funding mechanism for this opportunity is the R01 research project grant, which typically supports health-related research and development based on the mission of the NIH. Although applications are not being accepted at this stage, this advance notice is provided to allow researchers sufficient time to develop collaborations and prepare projects that align with the expected objectives of the funding announcement. Particularly encouraged are collaborative projects that integrate expertise in non-invasive brain stimulation with knowledge of substance use and addiction science. Eligibility for this grant is broad, encompassing a wide range of institutions and organizations including public and private higher education institutions, for-profit and small business entities, nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status, tribal governments and organizations, county and state governments, public housing authorities, and independent school districts. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement for this opportunity. Applications are estimated to open on March 5, 2026, and will be due by June 5, 2026. Awards are expected to be announced by April 1, 2027, with projects beginning on the same date. The total estimated funding for this program is $3,000,000, with approximately four awards expected to be distributed. This forecasted opportunity gives potential applicants nearly a full year to plan and develop proposals before the formal application period begins. For additional information, prospective applicants can contact Subramaniam Ananthan, Ph.D., at NIDA via phone at 301-435-2199 or email at sam.ananthan@nih.gov. This forecast does not currently provide application materials or detailed instructions, but it signals the future availability of a full Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) under the R01 activity code.