BRAIN Initiative Cell Atlas Network (BICAN): Coordinating Unit for Biostatistics, Informatics, and Engagement (CUBIE)

The BRAIN Initiative Cell Atlas Network (BICAN): Coordinating Unit for Biostatistics, Informatics, and Engagement (CUBIE) is a forecasted funding opportunity from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This initiative is supported by multiple NIH Institutes and Centers and forms part of the broader BRAIN Initiative, a major federal effort aimed at revolutionizing our understanding of the human brain. The BICAN program specifically focuses on building comprehensive atlases of brain cell types, and the CUBIE unit is critical in ensuring that these resources are well-integrated, statistically robust, and broadly accessible to the scientific community. CUBIE serves as a coordinating unit within the BICAN framework and aims to support large-scale exploration, interpretation, and dissemination of brain cell atlas data. The project will focus on biostatistical analyses, informatics infrastructure, and engagement strategies with the scientific community. Its primary objective is to enhance the reproducibility and accessibility of BICAN-generated datasets by implementing the FAIR principles—ensuring data are Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable. A major function of CUBIE is to leverage cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) techniques to improve analysis workflows and support integrative research. This forecasted funding opportunity will renew support for CUBIE for an additional two years. Although applications are not being solicited at this time, the early announcement allows potential applicants sufficient time to form consortia, develop comprehensive proposals, and align their work with the broader BICAN goals. It is anticipated that applicants will collaborate with the wider neuroscience and biomedical research communities to maximize statistical power, enable meta-analyses, and refine data integration methods that support a broader brain cell atlas ecosystem. Spending under this program will likely support activities including statistical modeling, systems for data harmonization, cross-site collaboration tools, as well as outreach and training initiatives to promote data usage and reproducibility. While specific spending rules and budgets have not yet been published, the initiative emphasizes rigor, transparency, and scientific collaboration. It is important to note that cost sharing or matching is not required under this cooperative agreement mechanism. Eligibility for this opportunity is broad, encompassing a wide range of organizations such as state and local governments, tribal governments and organizations, nonprofit and for-profit entities, public and private institutions of higher education, small businesses, and federal agencies including NIH intramural programs. Faith-based and community organizations, U.S. territories, and regional organizations are also eligible, reflecting NIH’s inclusive approach to advancing neuroscience research. Applications are expected to be accepted via standard NIH submission portals after the estimated posting date of August 1, 2026, with a projected application due date of October 1, 2026. Awards are expected to be announced around July 1, 2027, which will also mark the start of the performance period. All applications will undergo NIH’s peer review process, and only those deemed scientifically meritorious will be considered for funding. For further information or updates, interested parties should contact the program at [email protected].