Cooperative Agreement for affiliated Partner with the Great Lakes Northern Forest Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), under the Department of the Interior, is offering a cooperative agreement opportunity to a participating partner of the Great Lakes Northern Forest Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU). The cooperative agreement supports research into per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as “forever chemicals,” with a particular focus on their molecular and genomic interactions in wild and farmed fish. PFAS are persistent environmental pollutants that pose increasing concern for U.S. water systems and aquatic life, particularly fish that are vital for commercial and recreational fisheries. The funded research will investigate the mechanisms by which PFAS accumulate in fish and how these substances affect fish physiology and microbiomes. Two core objectives are emphasized: first, to explore the causal pathways of PFAS internal distribution and their physiological impact on fish; and second, to determine how PFAS influences fish microbiomes and whether these microbial communities can metabolize PFAS compounds. This study will compare exposed and unexposed organisms and analyze PFAS distribution, contributing valuable data for federal environmental and public health policy. The cooperative agreement has a funding ceiling of $49,297 and supports one project over a one-year period. Funds will be fully obligated at the time of award. There is no matching requirement for applicants. Funding is provided through the USGS Research and Data Collection program (Assistance Listing 15.808). The opportunity is open only to members of the Great Lakes Northern Forest CESU, a network of research institutions established to support collaborative science between academic and federal partners. Applications must be submitted electronically via Grants.gov using the funding opportunity number G26AS00032. The closing date for applications is January 6, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Required submission components include a cover page, technical narrative (objectives, procedures, products, timeline), a detailed budget narrative aligned with SF-424A categories, and a data management plan. A project abstract summary and biographical sketches for key personnel are also required. Proposals will be evaluated based on clarity and relevance of objectives, the feasibility of the technical approach, justification of the budget, and the qualifications of the team. Reviewers will assess applicants’ experience in sediment toxicology, PFAS risk assessment, and contaminant effects in aquatic ecosystems. A final decision will be made by the Contracting Officer based on review recommendations. The recipient is responsible for regular technical and financial reporting and dissemination of research outcomes in accordance with USGS policies. For submission-related questions, applicants may contact Grants Management Specialist Rachel Miller at rachelmiller@usgs.gov. Technical inquiries can be directed to Research Toxicologist Jeffery Steevens at jsteevens@usgs.gov. The final technical report is due within 120 calendar days after the period of performance ends. This is not a recurring grant opportunity and does not require submission of Letters of Intent or pre-applications.

Emphasize relevance to USGS priorities and experience in PFAS and microbiome research.