NINDS Human Biospecimen and Data Repository (RFA-NS-26-010)

Research Focus

This funding opportunity seeks to establish and operate a comprehensive biospecimen and data repository serving neurological disorders research. The repository—building on the existing Biospecimen Exchange for Neurological Disorders (BioSEND, established 2015)—will acquire, maintain, and distribute well-annotated human biospecimens including DNA, RNA, plasma, serum, cerebrospinal fluid, urine, saliva, and emerging sample types. The resource targets discovery and validation of neurological biomarkers across disorders such as Parkinson's Disease, Huntington's Disease, Frontotemporal Dementia, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, Epilepsy, Lewy Body Dementia, Multiple System Atrophy, Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Traumatic Brain Injury, and others. The repository will support basic, translational, and clinical research by providing integrated biobanking infrastructure, study management expertise for NINDS clinical studies, biospecimen tracking systems, and broad distribution to qualified academic and industry researchers worldwide. To date, over 54,353 sample aliquots have been distributed globally.

At a Glance

• Who can apply: U.S. higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, state/local governments, tribal governments, and faith-based organizations. Foreign organizations and foreign components are not eligible.
• Funding & project length: Up to $1,950,000 total costs (FY 2026); 5-year maximum project period.
• Award mechanism: Cooperative Agreement (U24) with substantial NIH programmatic involvement; clinical trials not allowed.
• Key dates: Applications due February 09, 2026 (5:00 PM local time); earliest start December 2026.
• Best fit for: Organizations with expertise in biobanking operations, neuroscience, data management, and clinical study coordination seeking to operate a national neurological biospecimen resource.