Co-infection and Cancer (R21 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The Co-infection and Cancer funding opportunity, supported by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), is a reissue designed to promote research into the mechanisms and epidemiology of co-infections and their contributions to cancer development, progression, and disparities. This opportunity seeks innovative exploratory studies to uncover pathways in carcinogenesis related to co-infections, aiming to inform prevention and treatment strategies. Co-infections involve simultaneous or sequential infections by two or more pathogens, with preference for projects addressing co-infections involving oncogenic agents, excluding HIV. The initiative emphasizes investigations that yield novel insights into the interplay between co-infections and cancer. This funding opportunity focuses on reducing cancer risk, morbidity, and mortality through systematic research and the application of findings to improve public health outcomes. Proposed projects should explore areas such as the molecular mechanisms of co-infection in cancer, cancer risk disparities among diverse populations, and the development of biomarkers for early detection. Projects addressing disparities in infection-related cancers across racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups, as well as international collaborations, are strongly encouraged. Studies using human samples or advanced non-invasive imaging methods are also prioritized. Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, nonprofits, small businesses, and foreign entities. Applicants may request up to $275,000 in direct costs over two years, with no more than $200,000 in any single year. Clinical trials are not allowed under this mechanism, but translational and mechanistic studies are encouraged. All applications must conform to NIH’s stringent application instructions, including adherence to data sharing and management policies. Applications will be reviewed based on significance, innovation, approach, and alignment with program goals. Reviewers will assess the feasibility and rigor of proposed methods, the qualifications of the research team, and the potential for projects to impact clinical guidelines or therapeutic targets. Special emphasis will be placed on studies addressing co-infection in the context of cancer disparities, innovative imaging techniques, and multidisciplinary collaborations. Applications are due February 16, June 16, or October 16, 2025, with corresponding review cycles leading to award start dates as early as December 2025. Applicants are encouraged to submit letters of intent 30 days before these deadlines. NIH will evaluate submissions based on merit, availability of funds, and alignment with program priorities. Additional resources, such as application guidance and policy updates, are available on NIH’s Grants and Funding website. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact specific NCI representatives for guidance tailored to their research focus areas, including basic mechanisms, biomarkers, epidemiology, imaging, and global health. This funding opportunity is governed by the NIH Grants Policy Statement and requires all submissions to adhere to NIH’s electronic application processes.