Innovative Technology Development for Cancer Research

For a description of the Innovative Technology Development for Cancer Research program, click here.

For a detailed description of the electronic submission process, click here.

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) has developed solicitations for "Innovative Technology Development for Cancer Research" that emphasize research projects that are centered on the inception and early stage development of new technologies for cancer research. These Requests for Applications (RFAs) are solicited using the Phased Innovation Award mechanism and the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) mechanisms.

Innovative Technology Development for Cancer Research

NCI invites applications for research projects to develop novel technologies that will support the molecular analysis of cancers and their host environment in support of basic, clinical, and epidemiological research. Technology encompasses methods and tools that enable research including, but not limited to, instrumentation, techniques, devices, and analysis tools (e.g., computer software). Technology is distinct from resources such as databases and tissue repositories. Applications for support of such resources will not be considered to be responsive to these RFAs.

Technologies solicited include those that are suitable for the detection of alterations and instabilities of genomic DNA; measurement of the expression of genes and gene products; analysis and detection of gene and or cellular products including post translational modification, and function of proteins; identification and characterization of exogenous infectious agents in cancer; and assaying the function of major signal transduction networks involved in cancer. These RFAs are intended to support the development of all required components of fully integrated systems for analysis including front end preparation of sample materials from cells, bodily fluids, and tumor specimens; novel chemistries or contrast agents; molecular detection systems; data acquisition methods; and data analysis tools. Technologies under consideration include those that will support molecular analysis either in vitro, in situ, or in vivo (by imaging or other methods) in the discovery process, as well as in pre-clinical models and clinical research.

This initiative is part of a broader technology development program within the NCI. That program underscores the desire of NCI to develop and integrate novel technologies focused on the molecular analysis of cancers and their micro-environment in support of cancer research, diagnosis, and treatment. In the research continuum of discovery, development, and delivery, this program thus emphasizes the link between development and delivery. This specific initiative aims to foster the development of sample preparation techniques and methodologies that are essential for effective research, technology development, and validation that will eventually lead to clinical applications.

¹While no preliminary data are necessary, the applicants must demonstrate the innovative nature of the particular technology or approach proposed for development.

²Quantitative milestones for each specific aim must be provided as a way of determining during the project and at its completion whether an applicant has successfully reached the specified goal. Milestones should be clearly stated as numerical quantitative specifications for relevant measures/properties.

³Detailed preliminary data must be provided in support of the feasibility of the technology or approach that is proposed for development. Such data may reflect successful completion of Phase I and associated milestones. For SBIR/STTR FOAs, feasibility data need to be largely obtained through a NIH-sponsored Phase I project.

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