Pancreatic Cancer Detection Consortium: Research Units (U01 Clinical Trial Optional)

The National Cancer Institute (NCI), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Institutes of Health (NIH), has released a forecasted funding opportunity titled “Pancreatic Cancer Detection Consortium: Research Units (U01 Clinical Trial Optional).” This initiative invites applications for Research Units (RUs), one of the two key scientific components of the Pancreatic Cancer Detection Consortium (PCDC). The purpose of this funding is to support rigorous research into the early detection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and its precursor lesions, aiming to identify individuals at high risk for disease progression. The PCDC is aligned with a strategic research priority identified in the NCI’s 2014 Scientific Framework for PDAC, and continues efforts to address critical gaps in early detection technologies for one of the most lethal forms of cancer. Through this opportunity, multidisciplinary teams are expected to develop and test molecular and imaging biomarkers, improve risk stratification approaches, and validate markers indicative of early PDAC or high-risk precursor lesions. Applicants are encouraged to focus on measurable biomarkers in bodily fluids, molecular and imaging markers for pancreatic cysts, and machine learning or computational methods to support biomarker discovery and validation. Furthermore, the collection of longitudinal biospecimens will play a critical role in building a comprehensive biorepository to support ongoing and future research. Participating RUs will collaborate closely, sharing data and biospecimens across the PCDC framework to enable integrated scientific advancements. The grant mechanism used is the U01 Cooperative Agreement, which allows for substantial federal scientific or programmatic involvement. While clinical trials are optional, research proposals may include such components if aligned with the overall goals. This funding opportunity is expected to support up to ten awards, although specific funding amounts, award ceilings, and floors are not yet disclosed. Applications are forecasted to be due by July 1, 2026, with an anticipated award and project start date of December 1, 2026, targeting projects to begin in the 2027 fiscal year. Eligible applicants span a broad spectrum of institutions and organizations, including but not limited to public and private institutions of higher education, state and local governments, tribal organizations, for-profit entities (including small businesses), public housing authorities, and a range of nonprofit organizations with or without IRS 501(c)(3) status. Additionally, the opportunity is open to U.S. territories, federal agencies, faith-based or community-based organizations, regional organizations, and even foreign (non-domestic) institutions, ensuring wide-reaching access for qualified research entities. While no cost-sharing or matching requirements are imposed, applicants must adhere to the cooperative agreement model and demonstrate readiness to collaborate with other funded RUs and the PCDC’s Management and Data Coordination Unit. This includes contributions to study design, protocol development, and data sharing, as well as compliance with centralized efforts in data harmonization and biorepository development. Applicants must be prepared to engage in trans-consortium activities and contribute to collective outputs that enhance early detection strategies for PDAC. This funding forecast is a critical step in the next phase of pancreatic cancer research, with a focus on innovative approaches that leverage multidisciplinary expertise and collaborative infrastructure. While the official Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) and application package are pending publication, potential applicants are encouraged to monitor the Grants.gov listing and prepare for the estimated post date of April 30, 2026. For inquiries, the NIH contact listed is DCP CBB, reachable via email.