Advancing Bioinformatics, Translational Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Research (R01 Clinical Trial Optional)
🏛 National Institutes of Health (HHS-NIH11)
✓ Free, no account · Source: Grants.gov · Last verified Oct 18, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for researchers pursuing biomedical research in bioinformatics, translational bioinformatics, and computational biology. Eligible applicants include academic institutions, nonprofits, government agencies, and independent researchers with appropriate credentials. Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent degree holders leading research teams typically qualify. The grant supports research activities across all U.S. states and territories with no geographic restrictions.
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Program description
The National Library of Medicine (NLM) seeks applications for research projects that drive groundbreaking innovation and advanced development in the fields of bioinformatics, translational bioinformatics, and computational biology. The primary goal of this initiative is to support the creation and implementation of cutting-edge methods, tools, and approaches that can transform the landscape of biomedical data science. This NOFO aims to address the growing need to leverage transformative technologies — such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and large-scale computational platforms — to extract actionable knowledge from vast, diverse, and complex biological datasets. By enabling more effective interpretation and integration of multi-dimensional biological and biomedical data, this research will ultimately contribute to improving individual and population health outcomes.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- NIH R&R (Research and Related) application form
- Project Narrative (12-15 pages typical)
- Biographical Sketches for key personnel
- Budget Justification
- Facilities and Administrative resources description
- Letters of Support from collaborators
- Data Management and Sharing Plan
Program contact
- 👤 National Institutes of Health
- 📧 NLMProgram@nih.gov
- 📞 301-402-2541
Funding track record
Recent awards under CFDA 93.879 from the last 3 years — real organizations that won funding through this same program.
Top 10 Largest Recent Awards
-
$31,424,450
-
$21,310,613
-
$18,962,515
-
$18,956,268
-
$18,759,333
-
$18,422,490
-
$17,519,518
-
$16,306,781
-
$15,389,486
-
$15,377,324
Top States by Funding
- TN 4 awards $65.5M
- MA 10 awards $63.8M
- NY 12 awards $60.2M
- CA 14 awards $59.6M
- PA 8 awards $38.4M
Source: USAspending.gov — federal spending transparency. Data covers last 3 years.
Funding history
Annual funding for this program — Federal obligations (CFDA 93.879). How funding has trended year over year.
| 2024 | $78,196,782 | |
| 2025 | $79,391,024 | |
| 2026 est. | $70,230,119 |
FAQ
Who can apply for this R01 grant?
Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent researchers and their institutions can apply. Eligibility varies by institution type, so check NIH guidelines for your organization.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline is March 5, 2029, with applications opening February 11, 2026. Check NIH's ASSIST system for any rolling or extended deadlines.
What activities does this grant support?
It funds original bioinformatics, translational bioinformatics, and computational biology research. Clinical trial components are optional depending on your research design.
How competitive is this grant?
R01 grants are highly competitive with success rates typically 15-20%. Strong preliminary data and methodological rigor are essential for funding.
What is the typical funding range?
Annual direct costs for R01 grants typically range from $100,000 to $500,000. Budget depends on research scope and complexity.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Build a strong research team with complementary bioinformatics and biology expertise. Collaborators strengthen competitiveness significantly.
- Present preliminary data demonstrating feasibility of your computational approach. NIH reviewers prioritize evidence over promises.
- Clearly distinguish your work from existing bioinformatics tools and databases. Explain the novel contribution your research makes.
- Detail your data management and sharing plan upfront. NIH requires transparency on data accessibility and preservation.
- Use the optional clinical trial component only if genuinely needed for your research. Unnecessary complexity weakens applications.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Weak or absent preliminary data undermines credibility with reviewers. Overly broad aims dilute focus and reduce feasibility of completion. Inadequate budget justification for computational resources and personnel costs.
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