Clinical Research Network on Antimicrobial Resistance (UM1 Clinical Trial Required)

Background
The National Institutes of Health (NIH), specifically the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), is issuing this notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) to support a Clinical Research Network (CRN) focused on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).

The goal of the program is to design, implement, and manage clinical research that addresses critical clinical questions related to AMR through a coordinated and integrated network comprising four centers: the Scientific Leadership Center (SLC), the Clinical Operations Center (COC), the Laboratory Center (LC), and the Statistics and Data Coordination Center (SDCC).

This initiative aims to enhance biomedical research and training in infectious diseases, develop effective treatments, and optimize existing therapies to combat AMR.

Grant Details
The CRN will conduct comprehensive clinical research including trials, studies, and related activities aimed at improving prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of AMR infections. Key tasks include:
1. Exploration of innovative antimicrobial treatments and drug combinations targeting gram-negative and gram-positive bacterial pathogens as well as AMR fungal pathogens.
2. Strategy trials to optimize currently licensed antimicrobials while minimizing impacts on native microbial communities.
3. Investigations into diagnostic tests that refine treatment strategies for appropriate antimicrobial use.
4. Development of next-generation clinical researchers specializing in AMR research.
5. Establishing operational support for clinical studies through the COC, overseeing laboratory services through the LC, and providing statistical analysis through the SDCC.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, local governments, state governments, tribal governments, independent school districts, public housing authorities, faith-based organizations, and regional organizations. Foreign collaborations are not eligible to apply. Applicants must have experience in IND/IDE submissions and safety oversight reporting.

Period of Performance
The project period for this grant is set for 7 years.

Grant Value
NIAID intends to commit $18 million in FY 2027 to fund one award with application budgets not expected to exceed $12 million in direct costs per year.

Place of Performance
The specific geographic locations for performance may include applicant institutions or subcontracted clinical research sites.