Investigator Initiated Research in Computational Genomics and Data Science (R21 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The "Investigator Initiated Research in Computational Genomics and Data Science (R21 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)" funding opportunity is administered by the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) to support novel computational, data science, bioinformatics, and statistical methodologies applicable to genomics research. It aims to fund projects that advance understanding in both basic and clinical genomic sciences. This opportunity encourages innovative research with the potential to impact human health broadly and promotes open access to research tools developed through funded projects. By facilitating data-driven advancements, this FOA supports the scaling, enhancement, and interoperability of computational tools and methods for managing, analyzing, and integrating large-scale genomic datasets. Projects may span a range of topics, including the development of new computational and analytical tools for processing genomic data, interactive visualization, causal modeling, machine learning applications in genomics, integration of genomic and clinical data, and the enhancement of secure data sharing. Research projects that build new or improve existing bioinformatics software and tools are prioritized, especially when they improve accessibility, efficiency, or reliability. Research involving resource development, such as databases, curation efforts, or tools applicable to only a single disease or biological system, is not within the scope of this award. The award provides up to $275,000 in direct costs over two years, with no more than $200,000 in any single year. Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profit entities, governments, and foreign institutions. NIH encourages applications from investigators who are new to genomic science, early-career researchers, and underrepresented groups. Applications must be submitted electronically through NIH’s ASSIST system or other compatible systems, following SF424 (R&R) Application Guide instructions. A comprehensive Data Management and Sharing Plan, detailing data sharing timelines and resources, is required. Evaluation criteria include scientific significance, innovation, investigative team expertise, methodological approach, and the project environment’s suitability. Reviewers will assess the novelty of the approach and its potential to meaningfully advance genomics. Applications emphasizing robust software development, scalability, and reproducibility receive high consideration. Additionally, NHGRI encourages projects that align with the FAIR data principles—ensuring data is findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable. Standard NIH review dates apply for submission, scientific review, and advisory council evaluation. Applicants should aim for generalizable, scalable methods that enhance the genomics community's capabilities. Successful applicants will participate in annual NHGRI meetings to share advances and discuss future directions in computational genomics. This FOA is a reissue, with expiration on January 8, 2025. Applications are expected to demonstrate a commitment to open science, including sharing code and tools via publicly accessible repositories.