Cardiothoracic Surgical Trials Network (CTSN) Linked Clinical Research Centers

The Cardiothoracic Surgical Trials Network (CTSN) Linked Clinical Research Centers grant is a forecasted funding opportunity issued by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), specifically under the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). The NHLBI, a part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, focuses on advancing scientific knowledge in cardiovascular, lung, and blood-related conditions. This initiative reflects the NHLBI’s long-term commitment to fostering innovative cardiovascular disease research with the goal of improving patient outcomes through multi-institutional collaboration and the translation of cutting-edge science into clinical practice. This funding opportunity aims to support the next phase of an international cardiac surgery research platform. This platform is intended to advance and broaden the field of cardiothoracic surgery by integrating related domains such as interventional cardiology and peri-operative care. Future expansion will include other HLBS (Heart, Lung, Blood, and Sleep) research areas, such as dissemination and implementation science, circadian medicine, and mechanistic research. The grant is designed to facilitate collaboration across various sectors, including academia, small businesses, professional societies, foundations, and international research institutions. The main objectives of this initiative are to enhance the development, testing, and dissemination of innovative techniques, technologies, medical devices, pharmaceutical products, and bioengineered solutions to improve health outcomes for adults suffering from cardiovascular conditions and related neurological complications. Additionally, the platform will provide centralized training to the next generation of clinical trialists and researchers focused on implementation science, helping to ensure sustainability and future leadership in this area of study. While no specific funding limits or total program allocations have been provided at this stage, the NHLBI has indicated its intent to release a formal Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) in early 2026. The official solicitation will include more precise application requirements and evaluation criteria. The funding mechanism will be a Cooperative Agreement, underscoring the collaborative nature of the project and the active involvement of the NIH in the research process. Eligible applicants include a wide array of organizations such as public and private higher education institutions, Native American tribal organizations and governments, for-profit entities (excluding small businesses), nonprofit entities with IRS 501(c)(3) status, county and state governments, independent school districts, public housing authorities, and small businesses. This broad eligibility supports the program’s objective to foster widespread innovation and participation. This forecasted opportunity is being published well in advance to allow interested applicants ample time to plan collaborations and design responsive proposals. The estimated timeline includes a post date of February 2, 2026, a submission deadline of June 1, 2026, an award date of October 1, 2026, and a project start date of January 1, 2027. Kathleen Fenton, M.D., M.S., from the Division of Cardiovascular Sciences at the NHLBI, is the primary contact for this opportunity and can be reached at kathleen.fenton@nih.gov or 301-221-7865.