RNomics Technology Enhancement Centers

The National Institutes of Health, operating under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is preparing a funding opportunity through its Common Fund to support the RNomics program. This initiative reflects a coordinated effort across multiple NIH Institutes and Centers to advance the study of the RNome, which encompasses the full complement of RNA molecules present within cells and tissues. The RNomics program is structured as a multi-component effort that includes technology enhancement centers, transformative technology development, molecular standards, and a coordinating center. This specific forecasted opportunity focuses on establishing RNomics Technology Enhancement Centers to expand the capabilities of existing RNA-related technologies. The primary objective of this funding opportunity is to accelerate the development and refinement of tools that enable comprehensive and integrated analysis of RNA. These tools are expected to support examination of RNA sequences, chemical modifications, structural conformations, spatial localization, molecular interactions, and functional roles. The program prioritizes advancing technologies that have already demonstrated feasibility and seeks to transform them into more robust, scalable, and widely usable platforms. Emphasis is placed on generating measurable improvements in both experimental and computational methodologies that can be adopted broadly by the research community. Funding will be provided through cooperative agreements, indicating a substantial level of involvement and collaboration between NIH and award recipients. The total estimated program funding is 12000000 dollars, with approximately four awards anticipated and a maximum award ceiling of 2000000 dollars per project. While the award floor is not specified, the funding structure suggests support for multi-year, resource-intensive research initiatives. No cost sharing or matching requirement is indicated, allowing applicants to propose projects without mandatory financial contribution from their own institutions. Eligibility for this opportunity is broad and inclusive, encompassing a wide range of applicant types. Eligible entities include public and private institutions of higher education, nonprofit organizations with or without 501c3 status, small businesses, for-profit organizations, state and local governments, tribal governments and organizations, independent school districts, public housing authorities, and special district governments. Additional eligible applicants include federal agencies, U.S. territories or possessions, regional organizations, faith-based and community-based organizations, and non-U.S. entities. This wide eligibility scope supports diverse participation and encourages interdisciplinary collaboration. The application process has not yet opened, as this is a forecasted opportunity intended to allow potential applicants time to prepare. The estimated posting date is October 1, 2026, with an anticipated application deadline of February 1, 2027. Applicants are expected to develop strong collaborative proposals that align with program priorities and demonstrate readiness to enhance existing RNA technologies. While specific submission components are not detailed in the forecast, standard NIH application procedures are expected to apply, including submission through designated federal grant portals. Evaluation criteria will likely focus on scientific merit, innovation, feasibility, and the potential for broad impact within the biomedical research community. Projects that demonstrate the ability to deliver scalable, interoperable, and high-impact tools for RNA analysis will be prioritized. Award notifications are expected around December 1, 2027, with project start dates aligned to that timeframe. The program is part of a broader, strategic NIH effort to advance molecular understanding of health and disease through cutting-edge RNA research. Applicants seeking additional information or clarification may contact the NIH Common Fund RNomics Program via the provided email address. As this is an early forecast notice, prospective applicants are encouraged to use this preparation period to establish partnerships, refine research concepts, and align proposals with the anticipated goals of the RNomics initiative.