ancient DNA for Modern Genomics (aDMG) Research Projects (U01 Clinical Trials Not Allowed)

The National Institutes of Health, through the National Human Genome Research Institute, is planning a future funding opportunity titled ancient DNA for Modern Genomics Research Projects. This initiative is structured as a cooperative agreement under the U01 activity code, reflecting a collaborative research model in which NIH program staff will have substantial involvement. The program is designed to support cutting-edge research that integrates ancient DNA data with modern genomic datasets to better understand human biology, evolution, and disease. As part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, NIH plays a central role in advancing biomedical research, and NHGRI specifically focuses on genome science and its applications to human health. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to establish and expand an ethical and scientifically robust resource of ancient and historical human DNA data. The program aims to leverage both existing and newly generated ancient DNA datasets to advance knowledge of modern human traits and disease. By integrating ancient DNA with contemporary genomic and cross-species datasets, funded projects are expected to contribute to improved biological and epidemiological understanding of health-related traits. This reflects a broader effort to connect evolutionary genomics with present-day health outcomes. Funding will support research projects that contribute to this integrated data ecosystem, including efforts in DNA sequencing technologies, computational genomics, population genetics, and interdisciplinary collaborations. While specific funding amounts and award limits have not yet been published, the cooperative agreement structure suggests multi-year, milestone-driven research efforts with defined deliverables. No cost sharing or matching requirement is indicated, which lowers the financial barrier for applicants and encourages broader participation across institutions. Eligibility for this opportunity is broad and inclusive, encompassing a wide range of organizational types. Eligible applicants include federal agencies, state and local governments, institutions of higher education (both public and private), nonprofit organizations with and without 501(c)(3) status, for-profit entities including small businesses, tribal governments and organizations, and non-domestic institutions. This wide eligibility scope reflects NIH’s emphasis on fostering interdisciplinary and international collaboration in genomic research. The application process has not yet been formally released, as this is currently a forecasted opportunity. However, the notice encourages prospective applicants to begin forming collaborations and developing project concepts in advance of the official Notice of Funding Opportunity. Investigators with expertise in ancient DNA, genomics, computational biology, and related disciplines are particularly encouraged to prepare. The eventual application will likely require submission through Grants.gov and adherence to NIH standard application components, including research plans, budgets, and institutional documentation. The estimated timeline indicates that the formal funding opportunity will be posted in August 2027, with applications due by February 1, 2028. Awards are expected to be issued by September 1, 2028, with project start dates aligned to that same timeframe. This advance notice provides a significant planning window for applicants to develop competitive proposals and partnerships. As a forecasted opportunity, it does not yet include recurring cycle information, but future iterations may follow depending on program success and funding availability. For additional information, interested applicants are directed to contact NHGRI Research Funding via email. This early communication channel allows researchers to seek clarification and begin aligning their work with program goals. Overall, this opportunity represents a significant investment in integrating ancient genomic data into modern biomedical research, with the potential to generate transformative insights into human health and disease.