Secondary Analysis and Integration of Existing Data to Elucidate Cancer Risk and Related Outcomes (R01 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The National Cancer Institute (NCI), in collaboration with several other NIH components, invites applications for secondary data analysis and integration of existing datasets to explore cancer risk and related outcomes. This initiative aims to address significant cancer research questions by leveraging diverse data sources, including genomic, clinical, environmental, and behavioral datasets. Researchers are encouraged to use innovative approaches to analyze existing data, develop advanced methodologies, and combine datasets to uncover insights into cancer prevention, treatment, survival, and disparities. This funding opportunity supports applications that utilize data from sources such as the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), UK Biobank, and other public and private databases. Projects may involve linking datasets, employing novel statistical or computational methods, and addressing underrepresented populations in cancer research. Up to 10% of the project budget may be allocated to generating new data for validating findings. The program also encourages applicants to explore data integration for addressing health disparities, enhancing precision medicine, and improving healthcare delivery. Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profits, and foreign entities. Proposals should align with NCI priorities or those of participating NIH components, such as the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) or the National Institute on Aging (NIA). The proposed research must focus on cancer etiology, progression, and related outcomes and must not primarily involve data collection or maintenance. Applications are subject to NIH’s Data Management and Sharing Policy. Awardees are expected to make harmonized datasets, analytical tools, and supporting documentation publicly available where appropriate. The maximum budget is $350,000 in direct costs annually, and the project period can extend up to five years. Applicants must demonstrate the feasibility and relevance of their proposed analyses to address significant knowledge gaps in cancer research. Review criteria emphasize the importance, innovation, and rigor of the proposed research, including its feasibility and investigator expertise. Proposals should clearly describe the data sources, analysis plans, and potential for translational impact. Applications that do not align with the stated goals, such as those focusing on non-human data or generating new data unrelated to validation, will be deemed non-responsive. Standard NIH deadlines apply, with submission windows in February, June, and October. Applicants are encouraged to consult program officials for guidance before submission. Successful projects are expected to advance cancer research, inform policy, and support the development of innovative prevention and treatment strategies.