[National Institutes of Health](https://www.nih.gov/)

July 5, 2026 (estimated)

Estimated total program funding: $1,000,000; ~4 awards expected; pilot study scale

Supports collaborative pilot studies using microphysiological systems to model type 2 diabetes and generate preliminary data for future research.

Forecasted opportunity—applications not yet open; start planning collaborations now.

--- ## Description The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) intends to launch a funding opportunity to support collaborative pilot research using microphysiological systems (MPSs) to model type 2 diabetes (T2D). This initiative aims to advance the use of biomaterials, microfluidics, and tissue engineering to create sophisticated in vitro models that better mimic human metabolic tissues and their interactions. These systems will enable researchers to investigate the heterogeneity of human T2D, study disease mechanisms, and test prevention or treatment strategies. The opportunity is designed to fund small-scale, collaborative feasibility or conceptual studies that generate preliminary data for future, larger projects. Applications are not being accepted at this time; this is an advance notice to allow researchers to build collaborations and develop responsive projects. --- ## Due Dates - Estimated application due date: July 5, 2026 *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Estimated total program funding: $1,000,000 - Expected number of awards: 4 - Individual awards will support pilot studies; typical award size and duration will be specified in the full announcement. --- ## Eligibility Eligible applicants include: - Public and private institutions of higher education - Nonprofits (with or without 501(c)(3) status) - For-profit organizations (including small businesses) - State, county, city, township, and special district governments - Independent school districts - Native American tribal governments and organizations (federally recognized and other) - U.S. territories and possessions - Faith-based and community-based organizations - Regional organizations - Eligible agencies of the federal government - Non-domestic (non-U.S.) entities (foreign institutions) - Others as specified in the forthcoming Notice of Funding Opportunity --- ## Application Process - This is a forecasted opportunity; applications are not yet being accepted. - NIDDK encourages potential applicants to begin forming collaborations and developing research concepts. - The full Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) will be published at a later date with detailed instructions and requirements. - Monitor [Grants.gov](https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/360659) and the [NIDDK funding page](https://www.niddk.nih.gov/research-funding) for updates. --- ## Additional Information - The program will prioritize projects that combine expertise in bioengineering, T2D biology, and human metabolism. - The initiative is intended to generate preliminary data and support feasibility studies in preparation for larger-scale research. - Cost sharing or matching is not required. --- ## External Links - [NIH main page](https://www.nih.gov/) - [NIDDK research funding](https://www.niddk.nih.gov/research-funding) - [Full opportunity forecast on Grants.gov](https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/360659) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Email | Phone | |------------------|-----------------------------|---------------| | Albert J. Hwa, PhD | [albert.hwa@nih.gov](mailto:albert.hwa@nih.gov) | 301-451-1525 |

Collaborative Awards to Support Microphysiological System Pilot Studies in Type 2 Diabetes Research

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