The NIH's National Cancer Institute (NCI) invites applications for innovative research projects exploring cancer communication under the R21 Exploratory/Developmental Research Grant mechanism. This funding opportunity supports studies focused on developing and testing new cancer communication surveillance methods, pilot interventions, and multilevel communication models that emphasize bidirectional influences. Research should leverage advanced methodologies, such as social media analysis, NLP, crowdsourcing, and GIS, and address critical cancer prevention and control areas, including misinformation, patient-centered care, and survivor quality of life.

The primary goal of this initiative is to reduce cancer incidence, morbidity, and mortality and to improve survivor outcomes through research-driven interventions and systematic application of findings. This R21 opportunity emphasizes exploratory and innovative studies with a high potential impact. Projects are expected to utilize new media and technologies, address behavioral outcomes like screening uptake or health literacy, and consider applicability across various contexts, including health systems and online communities.

The total direct cost for R21 projects is capped at $275,000 over two years, with no more than $200,000 in a single year. Applicants may submit new or resubmission applications. Eligible entities include higher education institutions, nonprofits, small businesses, local governments, and tribal organizations. Non-domestic entities are not eligible. No cost sharing is required.

Applications must follow NIH guidelines and be submitted electronically via Grants.gov. Required components include a detailed research plan addressing significance, innovation, and approach, along with a data management and sharing plan. Proposals must demonstrate the scientific rationale, novelty, and feasibility of the proposed research, supported by preliminary data where available.

Key dates include an opening submission period beginning January 16, 2025, with application deadlines on February 16, 2025, and June 16, 2025. Proposals will undergo NIH’s rigorous peer review process, which evaluates significance, innovation, rigor, and feasibility, with special attention to investigator qualifications and the research environment.

Awardees are expected to comply with NIH data-sharing policies, reporting requirements, and federal regulations. For inquiries, applicants may contact program officials or access NIH resources for submission assistance.