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NIH Research Project Grant

BRAIN Initiative: Development and Validation of Novel Tools to Probe Cell-Specific and Circuit-Specific Processes in the Brain

Funds new genetic or non-genetic tools that deliver genes, proteins or chemicals to specific brain cells or circuits, with validation built in.

Neuroscience advances when someone builds a tool that reaches a cell type nobody could reach before. This BRAIN Initiative notice funds building those tools, and it is unusually specific about what makes an application succeed.

The tools should inform or exploit cell-type specificity, circuit-level specificity, or both, and should support detailed analysis of complex circuits and the cellular int

Development and validation of novel genetic and non-genetic tools that inform or exploit cell-type and circuit-level specificity in the nervous system, including delivery of genes, proteins and chemicals to cells of interest with greater precision and sensitivity than established methods, usable across multiple species, breaking through existing technical barriers. Validation plans are an essential feature. 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.8 Feb 2027
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.

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Last verified: 25 Aug 2026Funder reference: RFA-MH-26-170Source: www.grants.gov