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NIH Phase 1 Exploratory/Developmental Grant (R61)

Early-Stage Innovative Technology Development for Basic and Clinical Cancer Research

Funds proof-of-concept work on a genuinely new tool, assay, platform or instrument for characterising cancer cells or handling biospecimens.

The National Cancer Institute's technology programme funds instruments and methods rather than the biology they reveal, and this is its first rung.

What is in scope is a new capability for the molecular or cellular characterisation of cancer, or for better handling and quality control of biospecimens used in basic, clinical or epidemiological cancer research.

The work funded here is proof of con

Proof-of-concept and pilot studies testing the technical feasibility of innovative methods, tools, assays, platforms or instruments offering new capabilities for molecular or cellular characterisation of cancer, or for improved handling and quality control of biospecimens, focused on cancer-relevant use cases. Applying existing technology to a novel biological question is not responsive. Clinical trials are not allowed.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Annual
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.10 Nov 2026
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.26 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.$5.1M

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Last verified: 25 Aug 2026Funder reference: RFA-CA-27-001Source: www.grants.gov