Resource-Related Research Projects for Development of Models and Related Materials for Studying Human Health and Diseases (R24 Clinical Trials Not Allowed)

The National Institutes of Health, through the Division of Program Coordination, Planning and Strategic Initiatives and the Office of Research Infrastructure Programs, has issued a forecasted funding opportunity under the R24 activity code. This program is designed to support resource-related research projects that enhance the development, characterization, and improvement of models and related biological materials for studying human health and diseases. The Office of Research Infrastructure Programs has emphasized the broad applicability of funded projects, requiring that models and related resources serve the scientific interests of at least two or more NIH Institutes or Centers and address diseases and processes affecting multiple organ systems. This aligns with the NIH-wide mission to foster research that benefits diverse scientific communities and advances biomedical knowledge. The purpose of this initiative is to promote the development of new models and methodologies, improve existing models, and expand access to resources and information critical for biomedical research. Supported projects may include the creation of mutant or transgenic models, new approach methodologies, antibodies or reagents, information resources, informatics tools, or methods for improving the preservation and accessibility of biological materials. The program also encourages proposals aimed at enhancing the reproducibility of animal research and improving techniques relevant to regenerative medicine. Applicants are expected to justify the need for their proposed resources, outline their potential impact, and describe clear plans for distribution, access, and long-term sustainability. Applicants must also address how the proposed resources will be validated, replicated, and made broadly available to the wider scientific community. NIH stresses that projects should not only focus on scientific innovation but also provide mechanisms to ensure usability, transparency, and broad dissemination. Applications may range from early-stage development of innovative models to the enhancement of existing resources, provided they demonstrate wide applicability across multiple disciplines. The forecasted opportunity anticipates making up to six awards, with an estimated total program funding of five million dollars. While no specific award ceiling or floor has been published, this total allocation is expected to support multiple resource-related projects. The estimated award date is October 1, 2026, with funded projects beginning on December 1, 2026, under fiscal year 2027 funds. Applications are expected to open by September 26, 2025, with a final due date of January 25, 2026. Eligibility for this program is broad and includes state governments, county governments, federally recognized and non-federally recognized tribal organizations, public and private institutions of higher education, nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status, small businesses, and other for-profit organizations. The intent is to maximize participation from diverse entities capable of developing high-impact biomedical research resources. Matching funds are not required for this program, removing an additional barrier for applicants. This Notice of Funding Opportunity is currently forecasted, meaning that the final application materials have not yet been released. Potential applicants are encouraged to prepare by building collaborations and ensuring readiness for submission when the Notice is published. Questions regarding the program may be directed to the designated contact, Dr. Sige Zou, Office of Research Infrastructure Programs, at 301-435-0749 or sige.zou@nih.gov.

Applicants are encouraged to use this forecast period to develop collaborations and responsive projects