The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI), a key component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' National Institutes of Health (NIH), is forecasting a funding opportunity designed to support the continuation of a major genomics research initiative. This initiative falls under the Electronic Medical Records and Genomics (eMERGE) Network, which integrates genomic data with electronic health records to advance precision medicine. This limited competition opportunity, titled "Outcomes of Electronic Medical Records and Genomics (eMERGE) Genomic Risk Assessment and Management Network - Clinical Sites (U01, Clinical Trial Required)," targets previously funded institutions under RFA-HG-19-013 and RFA-HG-19-014.
The purpose of this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is to extend and deepen the follow-up and data collection for 25,000 individuals who have received genomically informed risk assessments (GIRA) and corresponding medical management recommendations. The initiative seeks to expand the current one-year follow-up period to at least four years. The long-term study will evaluate how well patients and clinicians adhere to the genomically informed recommendations and what outcomes result from such adherence over time. Additionally, the project aims to identify key variables—such as demographics, clinical history, and non-genomic factors—that influence adherence patterns and health outcomes.
As part of the eMERGE Genomic Risk Assessment and Management Study, this cooperative agreement will fund approximately 10 clinical sites. These sites will be responsible for extending their engagement with previously enrolled participants and collecting extensive follow-up data. The opportunity will use the U01 funding mechanism, which indicates a cooperative agreement with substantial NIH involvement in the project’s implementation. The NOFO is currently in forecast status and aims to support clinical trials that assess both the efficacy of genomic interventions and the integration of genomic data into healthcare systems.
No cost-sharing or matching requirements are associated with this funding. The total anticipated program funding is estimated at $5.8 million, although specific award ceilings and floors are not currently stated. The expected application due date is November 19, 2025, with an estimated project start date of July 1, 2026. The award date is expected to align with the project start date. Given the scientific scope and the use of previously engaged cohorts, this funding is only available to a limited pool of eligible institutions—specifically those previously funded under the designated RFAs.
Applicants should prepare to respond once the full NOFO is published in 2025. Until then, this advance notice serves to facilitate collaboration building and early project planning. All prospective applicants should direct inquiries to Dr. Robb Rowley at NHGRI, who can be reached at 301-827-9126 or via email at Robb.Rowley@nih.gov. While no pre-application steps are currently required, prospective applicants should monitor the Grants.gov and NIH funding pages for updates and the formal NOFO release.
