The National Institutes of Health (NIH), through the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), has reissued its "NICHD Resource Program Grants in Bioinformatics" (PAR-24-301). This opportunity, under the P41 Biotechnology Resource Grants mechanism, aims to support the continued operation, maintenance, and dissemination of critical bioinformatics resources that advance research in animal models of embryonic development. The NOFO is intended to sustain valuable bioinformatics tools, databases, and related resources that help the research community understand the biological basis of development and congenital anomalies. These grants will fund activities such as resource improvement, data curation, user training, service provision, and the integration of these resources with other NIH bioinformatics tools.

This funding program targets well-established bioinformatics resources that align with FAIR data principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable). Resources that may receive support include datasets and tools for genomic, proteomic, and gene regulatory network analysis. Emphasis is placed on the interoperability of these tools with other NIH data systems, such as the Alliance of Genome Resources. Importantly, the focus is on mature, user-supported tools already widely used in the research community. The program excludes projects aiming to develop new proof-of-concept tools or resources, or projects duplicating existing NIH or National Library of Medicine resources.

Applications may request annual direct costs between $500,000 and $1,750,000, depending on the scope of the proposed project. The maximum project period is five years. Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, non-profits, for-profit organizations, local and state governments, and U.S. territories. Foreign entities are not eligible, but foreign components of U.S. organizations may participate.

Applicants must submit their proposals by the relevant NIH standard due dates, starting from January 25, 2025, through September 25, 2027. Letters of intent are encouraged 30 days before the application deadline. Each application must include a detailed plan of the resource program's strategy, specific aims, and organizational structure, as well as plans for data sharing, curation, technical development, and dissemination. Additionally, applicants must follow specific NIH forms and guidelines outlined in the How to Apply - Application Guide, ensuring compliance with the NIH's updated FORMS-I.

The review process will focus on several key criteria, including the significance of the resource to the developmental biology and congenital anomalies research communities, the experience and qualifications of the investigators, the innovation and approach of the proposed program, and its integration with other NIH resources. Successful applications will demonstrate that the bioinformatics tools have wide support from the user community and operate efficiently according to FAIR data principles.

This funding opportunity represents a key support mechanism for sustaining and improving bioinformatics tools that facilitate groundbreaking research in developmental biology and congenital anomalies, with the ultimate goal of advancing human health.