The NIDDK Inflammatory Bowel Disease Genetics Consortium (IBDGC) Genomic Research Centers

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Institutes of Health, is forecasting the continuation of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Genetics Consortium (IBDGC). Since its establishment, the IBDGC has led significant collaborative research efforts that identified over 300 genetic risk loci linked to different subtypes of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). These findings have been critical in advancing scientific understanding of disease mechanisms, yet IBD remains a chronic, complex, and heterogeneous condition without a cure. Current treatment strategies rely on long-term and often multiple interventions throughout the patient’s lifetime. Despite progress in biological research and the introduction of various biologic therapies, challenges remain due to the lack of reliable diagnostic biomarkers and predictors for remission, recurrence, and therapeutic response. The purpose of this program is to strengthen and expand genomic research efforts that explore the genetic, clinical, and environmental interactions contributing to IBD. By leveraging patient cohorts, biospecimens, and modern computational and data science approaches, the IBDGC aims to deepen understanding of disease development, heterogeneity, and progression. The ultimate goal is to improve disease management and facilitate the development of precision medicine strategies tailored to individual patient profiles. The IBDGC initiative is expected to fund up to seven Genomic Research Centers. These centers will serve as hubs for participant enrollment, molecular analysis of biospecimens, and computational data analyses. Each center may emphasize different aspects of IBD research but will contribute to the overarching collaborative consortium model. The cooperative agreement funding mechanism will enable NIDDK to maintain close involvement with funded projects, ensuring scientific and programmatic alignment with national health research priorities. The forecasted program anticipates a total funding level of approximately $6.4 million, with an estimated nine awards expected. Specific award ceilings and floors have not yet been announced, and funding distribution details are expected to be outlined in the final notice of funding opportunity. Funding will support research activities consistent with the NIDDK’s mission, specifically those advancing the science of diabetes, digestive, and kidney diseases. Eligible applicants include a broad range of U.S.-based entities such as state, county, city, and township governments; Native American tribal governments and organizations; nonprofit organizations; independent school districts; public and private higher education institutions; for-profit organizations, including small businesses; and special district governments. Additionally, federal agencies, U.S. territories, faith-based organizations, community-based organizations, regional organizations, and foreign institutions may also apply. This wide eligibility ensures participation from diverse institutions and research settings. The forecast indicates that the notice of funding opportunity is expected to be posted on August 1, 2026. The estimated application due date is November 1, 2026, with award announcements expected by July 1, 2027. The earliest project start date will also be July 1, 2027. Interested applicants should prepare for the required submission through Grants.gov and align their research proposals with the program’s focus on genomic research in IBD. At this time, no pre-application requirements such as letters of intent or concept papers are indicated. For further information, potential applicants may contact Ludmila Pawlikowska, Ph.D., at 301-480-9372 or via email at ludmila.pawlikowska@nih.gov.