Co-infection and Cancer (R01 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) offers funding through the "Co-infection and Cancer" R01 grant mechanism to support advanced mechanistic and epidemiologic research on the roles of co-infections in carcinogenesis. This initiative targets research to illuminate previously undefined pathways in cancer development, emphasizing prevention and treatment strategies for infection-related cancers. Co-infection is defined as the simultaneous or sequential occurrence of infections by two or more pathogenic or non-pathogenic agents, excluding studies focused solely on HIV. Priority will be given to studies addressing co-infections with oncogenic agents or those creating novel prevention and treatment opportunities. Research areas of interest include examining the role of co-infections in cancer risk, progression, and survival, investigating molecular and immune mechanisms, and identifying biomarkers for early detection and prevention. Emphasis is placed on understanding disparities in infection-related cancers among diverse populations, including racial/ethnic groups and medically underserved communities. International collaborations are encouraged to explore these mechanisms in low- and middle-income countries, where infection-associated cancers are more prevalent. Studies must have a multidisciplinary approach and are encouraged to use innovative methods such as non-invasive imaging. Eligible applicants include public and private higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, local governments, and foreign entities. Applications may propose new, renewal, or resubmission projects and must align with the outlined scope, addressing a gap in knowledge related to co-infections and cancer. Projects focusing on a single pathogen or solely on HIV co-infections are considered non-responsive. Funding is available for a maximum project period of five years, with budgets reflecting the actual needs of the proposed research. No clinical trials are allowed. Applicants seeking $500,000 or more in direct costs annually must contact an NCI program officer at least six weeks before submission. Letters of intent are optional but recommended to assist in planning the review process. Applications will be evaluated on significance, innovation, rigor, feasibility, investigator expertise, and institutional environment. Review criteria also include adherence to rigorous experimental design, data-sharing plans, and diversity in the study population. Research outcomes must align with NIH data management policies, including data deposition in NIH-approved repositories. Applications are due February 5, June 5, or October 5, 2025, with awards contingent on NIH appropriations and the scientific merit of proposals. Recipients must submit annual progress reports and comply with all NIH policies, including mandatory reporting of violations. For assistance or additional information, prospective applicants are encouraged to contact the scientific and financial contacts provided by NCI.