Advancing Genomic Medicine Research (R03 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The Advancing Genomic Medicine Research (R03 Clinical Trial Not Allowed) funding opportunity, reissued as RFA-HG-25-004, is sponsored by the National Human Genome Research Institute under the National Institutes of Health. It invites small-scale research proposals aimed at advancing understanding and implementation of genomic information and technologies in clinical care for diverse populations. The focus is on research addressing health outcomes and policy implications related to the clinical use of genomic data. This initiative encourages applications that explore areas such as the barriers and facilitators to the implementation of genomic medicine, assessment of frameworks for studying genomics in various clinical settings, and the development of computational or health-economic approaches for evaluating genomic data's clinical impact. Other areas of interest include methods for automating genomic variant interpretation and strategies for improving clinical access and integration of genomic data. Studies emphasizing health disparities and diversity in genomic research are highly encouraged, with an emphasis on including populations that have been historically underrepresented. Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, nonprofits, small businesses, and local governments. Foreign organizations and non-U.S. components of U.S. institutions are not eligible. Applicants must complete registrations in the System for Award Management, eRA Commons, and Grants.gov. Program Directors or Principal Investigators are encouraged to involve diverse perspectives and demonstrate inclusivity in their research teams and methodology. The program anticipates funding approximately two awards for fiscal year 2024, with a total cost of $150,000. Direct costs are limited to $50,000 per year, and projects may have a maximum duration of two years. Proposals must include a detailed plan for data management and sharing, aligned with NIH guidelines. Data sharing plans are expected to address broad access to genomic data and compliance with relevant policies, including NHGRI’s genomic data sharing expectations. Applications will be evaluated on scientific merit, innovation, feasibility, and the significance of the proposed work. Additional review criteria include adherence to NIH’s data sharing and inclusivity expectations. Applications are due by February 11, 2025, with award decisions anticipated by December 2025. Successful applicants are required to participate in annual grantee meetings and actively contribute to the advancement of genomic medicine. For further guidance, applicants may contact program officials listed in the funding opportunity announcement. Compliance with NIH application instructions and timely submission are critical for consideration.