Rational Design of Vaccines Against Hepatitis C Virus (U19 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The National Institutes of Health (NIH), through the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), is preparing to release a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) titled “Rational Design of Vaccines Against Hepatitis C Virus (U19 Clinical Trial Not Allowed).” This funding initiative seeks to form a consortium of Research Centers dedicated to the design, optimization, evaluation, and development of broadly protective vaccines for the hepatitis C virus (HCV), with the goal of advancing these vaccine candidates into clinical evaluation stages. The opportunity will utilize the U19 cooperative agreement mechanism, indicating a collaborative partnership between NIAID and funded institutions. This funding opportunity is currently forecasted and not yet open for applications. It has been announced in advance to allow interested applicants ample time to prepare by forming strategic collaborations and developing comprehensive, responsive projects. NIAID encourages investigators with relevant expertise in HCV vaccine research and development to consider participation. Collaborative approaches across disciplines and institutions are particularly encouraged under this NOFO. The grant falls under the discretionary category with a focus on health and infectious disease research, specifically under the Assistance Listing Number 93.855. An estimated total program funding of $8,300,000 will be available, with approximately four awards anticipated. While the notice does not specify an award floor or ceiling, the number of awards and total funding provides some insight into expected project scope and scale. Eligible applicants include a broad spectrum of entities such as independent school districts, state and county governments, federally recognized and other Native American tribal organizations, public and private institutions of higher education, nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status, public housing authorities, and both small and other for-profit organizations. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement for applicants. Key dates for this opportunity include an estimated post date of July 7, 2025, with applications due by November 3, 2025. Award notifications and project start dates are both anticipated to occur on July 1, 2026. Interested parties may contact Rajeev Gautam, Ph.D., at NIAID for further information via phone at 301-761-5347 or email at rajeev.gautam@nih.gov.