NIDDK Multi-Purpose Resource-Related, Multi-Component Research Services Centers Cooperative Agreement (U2C - Clinical Trial Optional)

This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) announcement invites applications for NIDDK Multi-Purpose Resource-Related Research, Multi-Component Centers Cooperative Agreement (U2C - Clinical Trial Not Allowed). To help increase rigor, reproducibility and cost efficiencies, U2C centers offer highly specialized cores that provide a range of topic focused services including but not limited to hands-on technical services, consulting, research/data coordination, or other research support services provided by nationally recognized experts. In contrast to other types of Core Centers, the U2C services should be largely provided to clients located at another institution where the needed service or expertise is not available. Provided services enable high impact research within NIDDK’s research mission including but not limited to integrative physiology, metabolic phenotyping, nutrition, community engagement, communications, and/or data and research coordination. The disease focus should similarly be within NIDDK’s mission, such as obesity and diabetes. The clients for these services can be a consortia, research partners or individual investigators and should offer experiential training in at least one of the provided services. Applications to this NOFO can propose optional opportunities and/or a pilot and feasibility grant program depending on the needs of the program.

Other Eligible ApplicantsIndian/Native American Tribal Governments (Other than Federally Recognized);Eligible Agencies of the Federal Government;U.S. Territory or Possession;Faith-based or Community-based Organizations;Regional Organizations;

The major elements in evaluating proposals include assessments of: (1) The scientific merit and general significance of the proposed study and its objectives; (2) the technical adequacy of the experimental design and approach; (3) the competency of the proposed investigator or group to successfully pursue the project; (4) the adequacy of the available and proposed facilities and resources; (5) the necessity of the budget components requested in relation to the proposed project; and (6) the relevance and importance to announced program objectives. The following criteria will be used in considering the scientific and technical merit of SBIR/STTR Phase I grant applications: (1) The soundness and technical merit of the proposed approach; (2) the qualifications of the proposed principal investigator, supporting staff, and consultants; (3) the technological innovation of the proposed research; (4) the potential of the proposed research for commercial application; (5) the appropriateness of the budget requested; (6) the adequacy and suitability of the facilities and research environment; and (7) where applicable, the adequacy of assurances detailing the proposed means for (a) safeguarding human or animal subjects, and/or (b) protecting against or minimizing any adverse effect on the environment. Phase II grant applications will be reviewed based upon the following criteria: (1) The degree to which the Phase I objectives were met and feasibility demonstrated; (2) the scientific...