Laboratory Twinning: Genome Sequence Analysis as a Tool Investigating an Alleged Biological Weapons Attack

The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation, Office of the Nonproliferation and Disarmament Fund (ISN/NDF), has issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) titled "Laboratory Twinning: Genome Sequence Analysis as a Tool Investigating an Alleged Biological Weapons Attack." This initiative seeks to enhance forensic genome sequencing capabilities in at least two laboratories in Latin America, enabling them to analyze sequencing data for anomalies that may indicate deliberate genetic modifications. The program emphasizes bioinformatics, epidemiology, and microbiology expertise, with a focus on dry-lab data analysis exercises, while allowing for complementary wet-lab genome sequencing activities as a secondary priority. The primary objective of this funding opportunity is to build sustainable capabilities within the selected laboratories, enabling them to serve as reliable resources in the investigation of alleged biological weapons attacks. Successful applicants will be expected to assess partner laboratories’ existing capabilities, design and deliver training programs, conduct practical data analysis exercises, and organize technical exchange visits. The final stage will involve a comprehensive exercise simulating a realistic investigation scenario, including data analysis under time-sensitive conditions. The expected outcomes include the ability of these laboratories to employ bioinformatics tools effectively, adhere to cybersecurity and data security protocols, integrate relevant contextual information into analysis, and demonstrate proficiency in identifying signs of genome modification. The total available funding for this opportunity is $480,000, with an anticipated one to two awards. The period of performance will not exceed 36 months. Cost-sharing or matching is not required under this NOFO, and voluntary cost-sharing will not result in additional competitive advantage during the review process. Eligible applicants include domestic and foreign non-profit organizations, public and private institutions of higher education, foreign public entities, public international organizations, and U.S. federal government entities. Applications must include a clear plan for achieving the project objectives, demonstrating the applicant’s expertise in genome sequence analysis, existing partnerships with laboratories in Latin America, and a track record of capacity-building efforts. Proposals should also emphasize mechanisms for long-term sustainment, effective mentorship programs, and efforts to promote gender diversity and inclusion in both project leadership and participation. Additionally, applicants are encouraged to ensure alignment with existing U.S. government-funded initiatives in the region to avoid duplication of efforts. Successful applicants will collaborate closely with ISN/NDF through regular meetings and progress reviews to ensure alignment with program goals. Awardees will be required to report on key performance indicators, including milestone achievement, budget adherence, quality of deliverables, compliance with grant terms, and gender representation. Emphasis will also be placed on sustaining the capabilities developed under this program beyond the funded period. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on January 31, 2025, via the designated online portal. Required forms include the SF-424 (Application for Federal Assistance) and SF-424A (Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs). All application documents must be in English, formatted in 12-point Calibri font with one-inch margins, and submitted in accordance with the detailed instructions provided in the NOFO. For assistance with application requirements, applicants may contact ISN/NDF at isn-ndf-grants@state.gov.