Memory T Lymphocytes in Cancer Immunology (R21)

- This funding opportunity announcement (FOA) solicits Exploratory/Developmental (R21) grant applications from applicant organizations that propose to conduct basic research studies that are relevant to anti-tumor immunity and that are focused on memory T lymphocytes and/or the cells and molecules that interact with memory T lymphocytes. Such research may include investigations of T memory cell differentiation, maintenance, and re-activation. Investigations may entail both human and animal studies, and both in vitro and in vivo analyses. Innovative uses of existing technologies and reagents, as well as the development of new technologies and reagents, are encouraged. We anticipate that the results of such research will ultimately improve the prospects for successful cancer immunotherapies and cancer vaccine development.-This FOA will utilize the Exploratory/Developmental (R21) grant mechanisms and runs in parallel with a FOA of identical scientific scope, PA-06-350, that solicits applications under the R01 mechanism.-Awards issued under this FOA are contingent upon the availability of funds and the submission of a sufficient number of meritorious applications. Because the nature and scope of the proposed research will vary from application to application, it is anticipated that the size and duration of each award will also vary. The total amount awarded and the number of awards will depend upon the mechanism numbers, quality, duration, and costs of the applications received.-The total project period for an application submitted in response to this funding opportunity may not exceed two years. Direct costs are limited to $275,000 over an R21 2-year period, with no more than $200,000 in direct costs allowed in any single year.-Eligible organizations include: for profit organizations; non-profit organizations; public or private institutions, such as universities, colleges, hospitals and laboratories; units of State governments; units of local governments; eligible institutions of the Federal government; domestic institutions; and foreign institutions. -Eligible Project Directors/Principal Investigators (PD/PIs): Any individual with the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary to carry out the proposed research is invited to work with their institution to develop an application for support. Individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups as well as individuals with disabilities are always encouraged to apply for NIH support.-Applicants may submit more than one application, provided each application is scientifically distinct