The National Institutes of Health (NIH) invites applications for small research grants under the Gabriella Miller Kids First Pediatric Research Program. This initiative supports projects analyzing genomic, phenotypic, and clinical datasets related to childhood cancers and structural birth defects. The program aims to foster discoveries that improve diagnostics and therapies through data-driven research using the Kids First Data Resource Portal. Funded projects may also develop analytical tools or algorithms that enhance the utility of existing datasets.

This funding opportunity focuses on leveraging Kids First X01 datasets, available via the program’s Data Resource Portal, to investigate the genetic underpinnings of pediatric conditions. Applications can integrate additional genomic data from public repositories to enable innovative cross-cohort analyses, provided they comply with dataset usage restrictions. Examples of eligible studies include variant annotation, structural variant detection, and pathway analyses. Applicants are encouraged to align projects with the program's goals of uncovering shared genetic pathways and developmental networks among pediatric diseases.

Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, non-profits, for-profit organizations, government entities, and foreign organizations. There is no requirement for cost sharing, though collaborations that maximize research impact are welcomed. Applicants must comply with NIH registration requirements, including obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and registering in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) and eRA Commons.

Funding is capped at $200,000 in direct costs over a maximum two-year project period. The number of awards will depend on NIH appropriations and the merit of submitted applications. Clinical trials are not permitted under this announcement. Applications must include a detailed Data Management and Sharing Plan and comply with NIH guidelines for data sharing and public repository submissions.

Proposals will be evaluated on their scientific merit, innovation, and potential impact on pediatric research. Review criteria include the significance of the research question, rigor of the proposed methodology, feasibility, and the investigator’s expertise. Strong consideration will be given to projects that produce actionable insights or scalable tools for future studies.

Key dates include an open submission window beginning January 16, 2025, with standard NIH deadlines thereafter. The expiration date for this funding opportunity is November 17, 2025. Applicants are encouraged to submit proposals early to ensure compliance and allow time for revisions.

For further details or to access application materials, applicants should consult the full funding announcement or contact NIH program officers listed in the announcement.