Specialized Programs of Research Excellence (SPOREs) in Human Cancers for Years 2027, 2028, and 2029 (P50 Clinical Trial Required)

The National Cancer Institute (NCI), potentially in joint funding with the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), is issuing solicitation PAR-28-022 to fund P50 Research Center Grants for Specialized Programs of Research Excellence (SPOREs) for the years 2027, 2028, and 2029. This program supports investigator-initiated translational research focused on organ-specific cancers or highly related groups of cancers, utilizing human biology research through genetic, molecular, structural, biochemical, or cellular experimental approaches. A critical requirement of the grant is that projects must reach a translational human endpoint within the five-year grant period. The program is structured around several mandatory components, including an overall component with a data management and sharing plan, an administrative core, three to five research projects, one to five shared resources cores, a developmental research program with a minimum annual direct cost commitment of 50,000 dollars, and a career enhancement program. Evaluation is based on the overall impact of the center, scientific collaboration, the adequacy of the scientific environment, and the proficiency of personnel in managing biospecimens and pathology. Applicants must maintain active registrations in SAM, eRA Commons, and Grants.gov, and adhere to strict cybersecurity incident reporting and patient confidentiality standards, including written informed consent for all prospectively collected tissues.