The Cellular Senescence Network (SenNet) Technology Projects grant opportunity is a forecasted initiative supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), specifically coordinated through the NIH Common Fund, the National Institute on Aging, and the National Cancer Institute, along with other participating NIH Institutes and Centers. The primary objective of this program is to advance the understanding of cellular senescence and its varied impacts on human health and disease. It focuses on the biological implications of senescent cell heterogeneity, particularly in relation to health outcomes and potential therapeutic approaches.
The grant is part of Stage 2 of the SenNet Program and aims to support projects under the Senescence Technology Projects (SenTecs) component. These projects are expected to develop and deploy innovative tools and technologies that are capable of identifying, characterizing, and targeting senescent cells, known as senotypes, within living organisms. This work is essential for the strategic development of senotherapeutic strategies, which could significantly influence the management and treatment of age-related diseases and conditions associated with cellular senescence.
Eligible applicants include a wide range of institutions and organizations such as public housing authorities, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, for-profit entities (excluding small businesses), institutions of higher education (both public and private), Native American tribal governments and organizations, small businesses, state and local governments, and independent school districts. These entities must possess or develop expertise in technology and computational tool development related to cellular senescence.
The grant is administered under a cooperative agreement funding mechanism (UG3/UH3), with applications expected to open by October 9, 2025, and due by December 9, 2025. The total funding available is estimated at $6 million, with around 15 awards anticipated. The project start date and award announcements are both projected for July 1, 2026.
At this stage, this is a forecasted notice, and no applications are being accepted yet. The NIH has issued this notice to allow interested parties ample time to build collaborative proposals and develop projects that are closely aligned with the upcoming Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) criteria. Ajay Pillai, from the Office of Strategic Coordination, DPCPSI, OD, is the designated contact for this opportunity.
