The Basic Research in Cancer Health Disparities (R01 Clinical Trial Not Allowed) funding opportunity from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) invites applications for studies focused on the biological and genetic mechanisms underlying cancer health disparities. These disparities involve differences in cancer incidence, prevalence, morbidity, and mortality among racial/ethnic and underserved populations. The program aims to support innovative research that investigates mechanistic biological factors, develops novel methodologies and models, and performs secondary data analyses relevant to cancer disparities. This initiative also seeks to cultivate a diverse cohort of scientists skilled in cancer health disparities research, emphasizing resource and tool development.

The program encourages basic research into the molecular and cellular processes driving disparities, including differences in cancer biology, prevention, and progression among racial/ethnic groups. Suggested research areas include understanding how genetic ancestry, epigenetics, the tumor microenvironment, microbiota, and immune responses contribute to disparities. Applicants may also explore novel computational approaches, patient-derived models, and methodologies addressing disparities in cancer metabolism, early detection, and response to therapy. The focus is on hypothesis-driven mechanistic studies that utilize comparative designs across underserved populations.

Applications must propose significant and innovative research relevant to cancer health disparities. Projects should include detailed plans for resource sharing and data management, with the potential to expand tools such as biospecimens, patient-derived models, and computational methodologies. Comparative research involving at least two populations, where one is underserved, is highly encouraged. Exploratory, correlative, or hypothesis-generating studies, as well as those addressing age- or sex-based disparities without considering race/ethnicity, are not responsive to this funding opportunity.

Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, and foreign entities. Budgets are not capped and should reflect the project’s actual needs, with project periods up to five years. Multidisciplinary teams are encouraged to leverage collective expertise, and applications must align with NIH and NCI policies for inclusion and diversity. Registrations with NIH systems such as eRA Commons and Grants.gov are required prior to submission.

Applications are due on NIH standard submission deadlines, starting February 5, 2025, with additional deadlines in June and October. Submissions are reviewed for significance, innovation, rigor, feasibility, and alignment with NCI’s priorities. The NCI emphasizes the advancement of understanding cancer health disparities while fostering the development of tools and methodologies to address these issues in underserved populations. For further information, applicants should consult the program contacts or refer to the detailed submission guidelines provided in the funding announcement.