The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is offering the Modular R01 grant, under the NIH R01 Research Project Grant mechanism, designed to support research in cancer control and population sciences. This grant aims to encourage studies that advance understanding in statistical and analytic methods, cancer epidemiology, survivorship, behaviors, health care delivery, digital health, and implementation science, with the potential to significantly improve cancer prevention, detection, and treatment approaches. This opportunity encourages diverse research proposals, particularly from early-stage investigators (ESIs), to address new scientific ideas that can impact cancer research and enhance the applicant pool and diversity within the field.

Eligible projects should focus on various prioritized areas. These include developing statistical models for cancer control strategies, investigating cancer risks tied to environmental exposures, studying genomic and epigenetic factors in cancer susceptibility, and using behavioral research to understand and improve cancer-related health behaviors and care outcomes. Additional research areas include improving cancer survivorship care, understanding the economic impact of cancer care, and leveraging digital health solutions for cancer treatment and surveillance. The NCI also welcomes projects that integrate patient-generated data into clinical settings, utilize artificial intelligence to reduce disparities, and explore the effectiveness of telehealth in oncology. Studies must be aligned with the DCCPS's mission to reduce cancer risk, enhance survival rates, and improve quality of life for cancer patients and survivors.

The grant provides up to $250,000 in direct costs per year, with a project period of up to five years. While the actual number of awards depends on the number of meritorious applications and available funds, the program encourages efficient use of the budget within the outlined limits. Applicants from foreign institutions and U.S.-based nonprofits, higher education institutions, and government entities, among others, are eligible to apply. Although cost-sharing is not required, applicant organizations must meet specific registration requirements, including in SAM, Grants.gov, and eRA Commons, before submission.

The application process includes standard NIH R01 submission instructions and specific modular budget guidelines, which applicants should follow carefully to avoid delays or disqualification. Applications must detail a research strategy, including specific aims, background, and approach. Applicants should prepare to include a resource-sharing plan and, if applicable, a data management and sharing plan. Additionally, applicants are responsible for ensuring compliance with NIH policies on human subjects and vertebrate animals when relevant.

Applications will be evaluated based on their scientific significance, innovation, rigor, feasibility, and the expertise of the research team. Factors such as the clarity of the study’s aims, the potential for significant scientific impact, and alignment with the NCI's mission will influence review outcomes. Reviewers will also consider whether the proposed research environment supports successful project execution. Applications that propose projects misaligned with NCI priorities, such as basic cancer biology research, will not be reviewed.

Key dates for submission include February 5, June 5, and October 5 annually, with respective scientific review and advisory council review dates leading up to award start dates. The earliest possible start date for applications submitted in early 2025 is December 2025. Applications should be submitted via NIH’s ASSIST system or Grants.gov Workspace, and inquiries can be directed to the designated NIH contacts for application support, scientific queries, or financial management assistance.

For awardees, compliance with NIH reporting requirements is mandatory, including submission of annual Research Performance Progress Reports (RPPRs). The NCI emphasizes adherence to award terms, and the recipient organization is required to uphold all regulations outlined in the NIH Grants Policy Statement.