ORACLE 3C: Chronic Conditions, Coinfections, and Comorbidities in HIV

The National Institutes of Health (NIH), through the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), is announcing the forecasted grant opportunity titled “ORACLE 3C: Chronic Conditions, Coinfections, and Comorbidities in HIV.” This initiative supports early-career investigators in conducting transformative research on HIV-related chronic conditions, coinfections, and comorbidities (collectively referred to as 3Cs). It targets research that explores novel pathways and mechanisms specific to HIV that result in distinct pathological outcomes in affected individuals, particularly in maternal and pediatric populations. The purpose of this funding opportunity is to build a pipeline of pioneering researchers, especially those from interdisciplinary backgrounds such as engineering, mathematics, computer science, and artificial intelligence. These researchers are expected to bring innovative strategies to the field of HIV-related 3C research. By supporting early-stage investigators, the NIH aims to develop new preventative and therapeutic strategies tailored to the unique needs of individuals living with HIV, including children and pregnant people. This work aligns closely with the strategic scientific priorities of the NIH Office of AIDS Research (OAR). Under this program, NICHD will use the DP2 funding mechanism, which is intended for high-impact, high-risk projects led by early-stage investigators. Projects funded under this mechanism should pursue novel research questions and demonstrate clear deviation from existing research directions within the HIV field. A total of four awards are anticipated, with a projected total program funding of $1,960,000 for the FY2027 cycle. However, specific award floors and ceilings have not been provided at this stage. There is no matching or cost-sharing requirement, which lowers the financial barrier for applicants from a wide range of organizational types. Eligibility for this grant is highly inclusive. Applicants may come from public and private institutions of higher education, independent school districts, for-profit and small businesses, nonprofit organizations (both with and without IRS 501(c)(3) status), federally recognized and other Native American tribal governments or organizations, public housing authorities, state and local governments, and special district governments. Additionally, entities such as regional organizations, non-U.S. institutions, U.S. territories, and faith-based or community-based organizations are also eligible to apply. The submission process is anticipated to begin on July 24, 2026, with applications due by September 25, 2026. Awards are expected to be issued by July 22, 2027, and projects may begin on the same date. Although no pre-application materials like letters of intent or concept papers are required at this stage, applicants are encouraged to monitor the grants.gov listing for any updates as the opportunity transitions from forecasted to active. Given the long lead time and forecasted status, interested organizations should begin planning and internal coordination early. Inquiries related to this funding opportunity may be directed to the NICHD’s Maternal and Pediatric Infectious Disease Branch via email at [email protected]. No phone contact is listed at this time. No PDF or additional documentation was provided with the forecast, so applicants should rely on the official grants.gov listing for updates. The grant does not appear to recur on a regular schedule, so this opportunity may represent a one-time or irregular funding window.