The National Institute on Aging (NIA), in collaboration with the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), is preparing to issue a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) aimed at advancing research into the mechanisms linking olfactory dysfunction to aging and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Alzheimer’s Disease-Related Dementias (ADRD). As part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, these NIH institutes are key players in supporting biomedical research to improve public health outcomes, particularly in aging populations and neurological health.
This funding initiative seeks to explore how declining olfactory function may serve as a biomarker for aging and potential risk for developing AD/ADRD. Research funded through this opportunity is expected to contribute to a more precise understanding of olfactory mechanisms at a circuit level, offering insights that may lead to new therapeutic targets for these conditions. Potential studies may involve both human subjects and animal models and may utilize a range of methodologies, including molecular, imaging, physiological, omics, and novel approaches.
The scope of funding will support projects employing diverse technical strategies to bridge knowledge gaps between olfaction, cognitive decline, and neurological disease progression. Applications should be grounded in rigorous methodologies and align with the R01 grant mechanism. While the NOFO is not yet accepting applications, it is being announced in advance to allow researchers adequate time to prepare collaborative and innovative proposals that meet the outlined objectives.
There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement for this opportunity. Eligible applicants include a broad range of entities such as nonprofit organizations, public and private higher education institutions, state and local governments, tribal entities (both federally recognized and otherwise), small businesses, and faith-based and community-based organizations. This inclusive eligibility design aims to foster broad participation across sectors with capacity to address the scientific goals.
Key forecasted dates include an estimated post date of August 6, 2026, with applications due by October 6, 2026. Awards are anticipated by July 6, 2027, with funded projects expected to begin on the same date. This program is forecasted for Fiscal Year 2027. The anticipated cadence suggests an annual cycle, with subsequent rounds expected on a yearly basis.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to begin considering their submissions in line with the upcoming formal announcement. Further inquiries can be directed to Coryse St. Hillaire-Clarke, Ph.D., who may be reached at sthillaireclacn@mail.nih.gov or 301-496-9350 for guidance on the scope and expectations of the NOFO.
