The Genome Sequencing Center for the Gabriella Miller Kids First Pediatric Research Program is a funding opportunity forecasted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This initiative is part of the NIH Common Fund and aims to expand genomic and clinical data resources to support research in pediatric cancers and congenital anomalies. The notice provides early information to enable prospective applicants to prepare proposals and form necessary collaborations, though formal applications are not yet being accepted.
This funding opportunity, designated under opportunity number NOT-RM-25-034, will utilize the U24 cooperative agreement mechanism and falls within the discretionary funding category. The Kids First program supports the understanding of genetic pathways shared between childhood cancers and congenital anomalies, intending to facilitate discovery of disease mechanisms and foster development of targeted therapies and interventions. The Genome Sequencing Center initiative will play a central role in advancing this mission by generating and integrating various forms of genomic data and incorporating clinic-based sources into the research infrastructure.
The total anticipated funding available through this opportunity is estimated at $6.6 million. The grant is expected to be formally posted on July 30, 2025, with applications due by October 30, 2025. Funding decisions and award notifications are expected by July 30, 2026, with project work slated to begin on the same day.
Eligibility for this grant is broad and includes a wide array of institutional applicants. Eligible entities include small businesses, nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status (excluding higher education institutions), both public and private institutions of higher education, public housing authorities, independent school districts, state and county governments, and tribal organizations and governments (both federally recognized and other). For-profit organizations other than small businesses are also eligible.
While the specific application package and evaluation criteria have not yet been published, the NIH encourages researchers with relevant expertise in pediatric cancer or congenital abnormality genomics to begin preparations. This advance notice is designed to foster early planning and collaborative development for high-quality, impactful research proposals.
Interested parties can contact Concepcion R. Nierras, Ph.D., at the NIH Office of Strategic Coordination, via phone at 301-435-5840 or by email at concepcion.nierras@nih.gov for more information.
