Limited Competition: Superfund Hazardous Substance Research and Training Program (P42 Clinical Trial Optional)

Background
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) is announcing the continuation of the Superfund Hazardous Substance Research and Training Program, referred to as Superfund Research Program (SRP) Centers. The SRP Center grants aim to support problem-based, solution-oriented research that integrates multiple projects across biomedical and environmental science and engineering disciplines. This initiative is rooted in the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986, which restricts eligibility to accredited institutions of higher education. The goal of the program is to improve public health through innovative research and training.

Grant Details
The SRP Centers will conduct interdisciplinary research focusing on:
1) advanced techniques for detecting, assessing, and evaluating the effects of hazardous substances on human health;
2) methods for assessing risks posed by hazardous substances;
3) technologies for detecting hazardous substances in the environment; and
4) biological, chemical, and physical methods to reduce the amount and toxicity of hazardous substances. Each Center must include an Administrative Core for leadership and data management, a Translational Research and Engagement Core (TREC) for community engagement and translational research opportunities, and a minimum of three research projects that may include both Biomedical Research (BMR) and Environmental Science and Engineering (ESE) projects.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants are limited to accredited institutes of higher education. Foreign organizations or non-domestic entities are not eligible to apply. Each institution may submit only one application per funding opportunity.

Period of Performance
The project period can extend up to five years with applications expected to align with NIH standard peer-review processes.

Grant Value
NIEHS intends to fund approximately 10 awards totaling up to $22 million for fiscal year 2027. Individual applications may request direct costs up to $1.75 million per year.

Place of Performance
Research activities are encouraged at Superfund sites or other managed hazardous waste sites, although they are not required to take place at these locations.