Pilot Projects to Enhance the Human Virome Program (United States)

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is inviting applications for the “Pilot Projects to Enhance the Human Virome Program (R03 Clinical Trials Not Allowed).” This funding opportunity aims to support small pilot projects that extend the goals of the Human Virome Program (HVP), focusing on characterizing the healthy human virome. Applications must be submitted by 10 November 2026. The Common Fund Human Virome Program (HVP) seeks to characterize the healthy human virome, which comprises viruses residing in the human body without causing disease. The initiative supports projects that validate and improve tools and methods for studying the virome’s role in health and disease. The program encourages applications for projects that leverage human and animal specimens to enhance virome research tools.

Eligible applicants include:

Foreign organizations and non-domestic U.S. entities are not eligible. Applications involving foreign subawards will not be considered compliant.

Projects should focus on:

This funding opportunity is critical for advancing research in virology by expanding our understanding of the human virome and its implications for health. The pilot projects supported by this grant will contribute to the development of innovative tools and methods, facilitating deeper insights into the virome’s role in human health and disease. For detailed guidance, refer to the official NIH Grants Policy Statement. Who can apply for this grant? Eligible applicants include U.S.-based educational institutions, government entities, and nonprofits. Foreign organizations are not eligible. What is the funding range for individual projects? Projects can receive between $50,000 and $100,000. Are foreign collaborations allowed? Only unfunded international collaborations or foreign components are allowed. What is the deadline for application submission? The deadline is 10 November 2026. Where can I find more information? Visit the Grants.gov page or contact HumanVirome@od.nih.gov for assistance. Interested applicants should carefully review the official guidelines and application instructions on the NIH website. Ensure all submissions are completed by the stated deadline to be considered for funding.