Transformative Technologies for Experimental and Computational RNome Characterization and Functional Analysis
🏛 National Institutes of Health (HHS-NIH11)
✓ Free, no account · Source: Grants.gov · Last verified Oct 18, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for research institutions and universities developing transformative RNA analysis technologies. Applicants typically include academic medical centers, research institutions, and organizations with strong research infrastructure. The program supports early-stage, high-risk technology development projects not yet proven at scale.
Eligible activities include creating new experimental methods to sequence RNA, detect RNA modifications, study RNA function, and analyze RNA across biological systems. Projects must address significant gaps in current RNA research methods.
This is a phased cooperative agreement. Phase 1 focuses on proof-of-concept and preliminary validation. Phase 2 (upon successful Phase 1 completion) transitions validated tools toward community use.
Geographic scope is national. Cost-sharing is not required.
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Key dates
- Aug 5, 2026 Applications open
- Feb 15, 2027 Application deadline in 119 days
- Dec 1, 2027 Award announced
- Dec 1, 2027 Project start
Program description
The NIH Common Fund, in partnership with other NIH Institutes and Centers, plans to issue Notices of Funding Opportunity (NOFOs) for the RNomics program, which seeks to develop tools for studying the full set of RNA molecules (the RNome) in cells and tissues. The program will support technologies and resources that enable integrated analysis of RNA sequences, modifications, structures, locations, interactions, and functions to advance understanding of health and disease. RNomics includes four initiatives: technology enhancement centers, transformative technologies, molecular standards, and a coordinating center. Applications are not being solicited at this time. This notice is being provided to give potential applicants time to develop meaningful collaborations and strong projects.
This NOFO will support the transformative technologies initiative. These phased projects will develop new experimental and computational RNA technologies that address major limitations of current methods. Projects will focus on early-stage, high-risk ideas not yet demonstrated at scale or in biologically relevant systems. Priority areas include tools to sequence RNA, detect modifications, study RNA function, and analyze RNA across molecules, cells, and tissues. Projects that successfully complete Phase 1 milestones will be evaluated for transition to Phase 2. Phase 2 projects are expected to deliver validated tools for community use.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- SF-424 (Federal application form)
- Project Narrative (research plan)
- Specific Aims
- Budget and Budget Justification
- Biosketch (for key personnel)
- Institutional supporting documents (institutional commitment, facilities)
Program contact
- 👤 Common Fund RNomics Program
- 📧 cfrnomics@od.nih.gov
- 📞 Please contact via e-mail.
Funding track record
Recent awards under CFDA 93.310 from the last 3 years — real organizations that won funding through this same program.
Top 10 Largest Recent Awards
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$383,462,829
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$198,364,987
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$190,396,050
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$179,737,926
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$169,422,678
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$148,383,140
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$143,679,156
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$115,739,255
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$108,778,286
-
$90,799,903
Top States by Funding
- NC 4 awards $446.4M
- WA 1 awards $383.5M
- MD 2 awards $317.8M
- NY 3 awards $207.3M
- CA 1 awards $198.4M
Source: USAspending.gov — federal spending transparency. Data covers last 3 years.
Funding history
Annual funding for this program — Federal obligations (CFDA 93.310). How funding has trended year over year.
| 2024 | $1,174,839,078 | |
| 2025 | $1,062,277,534 | |
| 2026 est. | $28,100,048 |
FAQ
What organizations can apply for this grant?
Research institutions, universities, and organizations with capacity to conduct advanced molecular research typically qualify. Check your institution's research designation and prior NIH funding eligibility.
What is the deadline?
The fixed deadline is February 15, 2027. Plan your application timeline well in advance given the complexity of RNA technology development proposals.
What activities can this funding support?
Development of new experimental or computational methods for RNA analysis, including sequencing, modification detection, function studies, and spatial analysis. Equipment and personnel costs are typically allowable.
How competitive is this program?
This is highly competitive given the emphasis on transformative, early-stage technologies. Clear Phase 1 milestones and preliminary data strengthen applications significantly.
What is the funding range?
Individual awards typically range up to approximately $500,000 per phase, though exact amounts vary. The total program pool is $8,000,000.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Start collaboration discussions early. Multi-institutional partnerships often strengthen transformative technology proposals.
- Define Phase 1 milestones clearly and realistically. Your ability to achieve measurable proof-of-concept determines Phase 2 transition.
- Address why current methods fail at your proposed application. Reviewers want to see a specific gap your technology fills.
- Plan for community adoption from the start. Phase 2 success requires tools others can actually use and validate.
- Assemble a strong computational and experimental team. RNA technologies need both molecular expertise and bioinformatics strength.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Applications lack clear Phase 1 milestones or propose incremental improvements rather than transformative approaches. Applicants underestimate the work required to validate tools for broader community use. Projects without preliminary data or a proof-of-concept plan score poorly.
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