Collaborative Awards to Support Microphysiological System Pilot Studies in Type 2 Diabetes Research

The National Institutes of Health, under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, has announced a forecasted Notice of Funding Opportunity for collaborative pilot studies that will support the use of microphysiological systems (MPSs) in type 2 diabetes research. The specific institute leading this effort is the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). This funding opportunity recognizes the growing importance of biomaterials, microfluidics, and tissue engineering in advancing three-dimensional culture systems that closely approximate human physiology. These models are poised to offer deeper insights into the biological underpinnings of type 2 diabetes and to enhance translational research on disease prevention and treatment strategies. The program’s main objective is to support small-scale pilot projects that investigate novel uses of MPSs in modeling aspects of human type 2 diabetes biology. By fostering feasibility studies and generating preliminary data, the initiative seeks to accelerate innovative approaches that bridge bioengineering, metabolism, and disease biology. Collaborative applications will be encouraged, particularly those that bring together interdisciplinary expertise from diabetes researchers, engineers, and clinical investigators. This cooperative approach aims to create robust models for investigating tissue crosstalk and heterogeneity in disease presentation and treatment response. The scope of the award is specifically limited to pilot studies rather than large-scale or long-term research programs. Allowable costs will support development, testing, and proof-of-concept phases of projects, but details on direct or indirect cost limitations will be provided once the formal funding announcement is issued. Importantly, the forecast specifies that no cost sharing or matching is required, lowering barriers for participation by a diverse range of organizations and investigators. Eligibility for this opportunity is intentionally broad. Applicants may include state, county, and city governments; public housing authorities; Native American tribal organizations and governments; independent school districts; public and private higher education institutions; nonprofit organizations; for-profit organizations including small businesses; and certain non-domestic (non-U.S.) entities. Faith-based and community organizations are also eligible, along with eligible agencies of the federal government and U.S. territories or possessions. This inclusivity highlights NIH’s intent to gather a wide pool of innovative applications. Applications are not currently being solicited, as this is a forecasted opportunity intended to give research teams time to form collaborations and develop project concepts. The estimated posting date is April 1, 2026, with applications anticipated to close on July 5, 2026. Awards are expected to be announced in January 2027, with funded projects beginning on or after February 1, 2027. The total estimated program funding is $1,000,000 with approximately four awards anticipated, though ceilings and floors have not yet been defined. Program inquiries should be directed to Albert J. Hwa at the National Institutes of Health, who can be reached at 301-451-1525 or via email at albert.hwa@nih.gov. As this is a forecast, further details on application forms, review criteria, and submission procedures will be provided in the forthcoming official NOFO. Interested applicants are advised to monitor Grants.gov and NIH’s funding pages for updates. Given the annual cadence of NIH funding opportunities in this domain, applicants can expect continued future opportunities beyond this forecasted cycle.