Forecast to Publish a Notice of Funding Opportunity for The Metastasis Research Network (MetNet): MetNet Research Projects (U01 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) intends to publish a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to solicit applications for research on use integrative systems-level approaches to address a specific question in metastasis research. Such projects are expected to integrate with the NCI's Metastasis Research Network (MetNet) and complement its ongoing research.

Proposed projects should emphasize one of the central themes defined in the MetNet NOFO (RFA-CA-20-029) such as dormancy, early dissemination, cellular and/or physical microenvironment crosstalk, or mechanisms of responses by metastatic cells to therapies.

The MetNet. Launched in 2021, the MetNet consists of U54 Research Centers that support using systems level approaches to elucidate and integrate a mechanistic understanding of the non-linear, dynamic processes in metastasis. Considering both chronological progression and biological scales, the overall goal of the MetNet is to advance our understanding of metastasis as a whole body, systems-level problem with the goal of developing a comprehensive and cohesive picture of the emergent processes involved. The MetNet is governed by the MetNet Steering Committee. The U01 Research Project awardees supported under this NOFO will integrate into and be required to participate in all MetNet activities, including serving as Steering Committee members.

Applications are not being solicited at this time. This notice is being provided to allow potential applicants sufficient time to develop meaningful collaborations and responsive projects. The NOFO will utilize the U01 activity code. The NOFO is expected to be published in Summer 2025 with an anticipated application due date in Fall 2025.