Title:Innovative Technologies for Molecular Analysis of Cancer (IMAT) Program

Contact:

Richard Aragon, Ph.D.
Office of Technology and Industrial Relations
National Cancer Institute
Building 31, Room 10A52, MSC 2580
Bethesda, MD 20892-2580
Telephone: (301) 496-1550
E-mail: raragon@mail.nih.gov

Objective of Project:

The NCI-sponsored Innovative Technologies for Molecular Analysis of Cancer (IMAT) Program, which is aimed at the development and integration of novel and emerging technologies in the support of cancer research, diagnosis, and treatment, now encompasses an array of 9 closely-related Funding Opportunity Announcements (FOAs).

Description of Project:

The IMAT Program comprises the following three related thematic components (i.e., themes):

  1. Innovative Technologies for the Molecular Analysis of Cancer, which emphasizes research projects that are centered on the inception and early stage development of new technologies for cancer research;
  2. Application of Emerging Technologies for Cancer Research, which is designed to support research projects evaluating technologies that are ready for initial clinical or laboratory application in cancer research; and
  3. Innovations in Cancer Sample Preparation, which is centered on the development of novel technologies of sample preparation/purification/processing that maximize the quality and utility of biospecimens for molecular analyses of cancer cells and their host environments without compromising donor/patient health.
For each IMAT theme, there are several parallel FOAs that involve different funding mechanisms with distinct submission requirements. In addition to conventional Research Project Grants (RPGs), some IMAT FOAs are directed at small businesses under the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) mechanisms. Note that Themes 1 and 2 are merged for SBIR/STTR RFAs.

The individual IMAT FOAs are Requests for Applications (RFAs) focused either on:

  1. aConduct of high-risk exploratory research with an emphasis on innovation (Phase I through use of the R21, R41, or R43 grant mechanisms); or
  2. Further development of a technology/application for which proof of concept has been achieved (Phase II through use of the R33, R42, or R44 grant mechanisms); or
  3. Projects that combine both Phase I and Phase II efforts in one application/award (the SBIR/STTR Fast Track mechanisms).