Metastasis Research Network (U54 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)
About
Through this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), the National Cancer Institute (NCI) solicits applications for research on developing a comprehensive and cohesive understanding of cancer metastasis. Towards this goal, the NCI will support U54 Specialized Centers that together will continue to serve as the hub of the Metastasis Research Network (MetNet). Each MetNet Center should propose an overarching scientific theme that will be pursued through two or three scientific inter- and multidisciplinary basic research projects. The projects should use integrative system level approaches to elucidate and integrate a mechanistic understanding of the non-linear, dynamic, and emergent processes in metastasis. Overarching themes should encompass the interplay between at least two central elements in the metastatic process such as early dissemination, cellular, soluble and/or physical microenvironment crosstalk, dormancy, or mechanisms of responses by metastatic cells to therapies. Studies on all types of cancer are welcome, including rare and pediatric metastatic cancers. Research proposed by MetNet Centers is expected to advance our understanding towards a more comprehensive appreciation of metastasis as a whole body, systems-level problem.
The Metastasis Research Network (U54 Clinical Trial Not Allowed) grant, administered by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), funds specialized research centers dedicated to advancing comprehensive understanding of cancer metastasis. This program is designed for research institutions and academic medical centers capable of establishing U54 Specialized Centers that will serve as hubs within the MetNet network. The grant supports multidisciplinary basic research projects that employ integrative, systems-level approaches to elucidate the complex mechanisms of metastatic cancer progression. Researchers should propose an overarching scientific theme pursued through two to three interconnected projects examining critical metastatic processes such as early dissemination, microenvironment interactions, cellular dormancy, or therapeutic resistance mechanisms. This opportunity welcomes studies across all cancer types, including rare and pediatric malignancies. Funding ranges up to $1,300,000, making it ideal for established research institutions seeking to establish or expand cancer metastasis research centers. The program emphasizes whole-body, systems-level problem-solving to fundamentally transform our understanding of metastatic disease. International collaborations and non-U.S. organizations are eligible to apply, broadening access to this significant research investment.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
September 25, 2026
Award Amount
Up to $1.3M
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Grant Amount
Up to $1.3M
Deadline
2026-09-25
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Annual - Deadline: September 25, 2026
Best For
Research institutions and academic medical centers with capacity to establish specialized cancer metastasis research centers; international research organizations
Eligibility
Refer to Section III. Eligibility Information in the NOFO for additional information on eligibility.Foreign Organizations/International Collaborations:Non-domestic (non-U.S.) Entities (Foreign Organizations) are eligible to apply.Non-domestic (non-U.S.) components of U.S. Organizations are eligible to apply.Foreign components, as defined in the NIH Grants Policy Statement, are allowed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Metastasis Research Network (U54 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)?
Institutions capable of establishing U54 Specialized Centers are eligible to apply. This includes research institutions and academic medical centers. Non-domestic (non-U.S.) entities and foreign organizations may also apply, as may non-domestic components of U.S. organizations. For comprehensive eligibility requirements, including institutional capacity and administrative requirements, refer to Section III of the official Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) on the NCI website.
How much funding does Metastasis Research Network (U54 Clinical Trial Not Allowed) provide?
Funding is available up to $1,300,000 per award. The specific amount awarded may vary based on the scope of proposed research, institutional capacity, and funding cycle decisions. Applicants should consult the official NOFO for details on budget requirements and allowable indirect costs.
How do I apply for Metastasis Research Network (U54 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)?
Applications are submitted through the NIH grants portal (Grants.gov) according to the submission deadlines outlined in the NOFO. The deadline for this funding opportunity is September 25, 2026. Applicants must prepare a detailed proposal including an overarching scientific theme, two to three interdisciplinary research projects, institutional commitment letters, and required budget documents. Visit the official NCI NOFO listing for complete application instructions, required forms, and submission procedures.
What can Metastasis Research Network (U54 Clinical Trial Not Allowed) funding be used for?
Funding supports basic research projects focused on understanding cancer metastasis mechanisms through systems-level, integrative approaches. Allowable uses include research exploring early dissemination, microenvironment crosstalk, dormancy, and therapeutic resistance mechanisms. The grant specifically does not fund clinical trials. Funding supports personnel, equipment, supplies, and other research costs necessary to establish and operate a U54 Specialized Center within the MetNet network. Indirect costs are also allowable per NIH policy.
Last updated: July 5, 2026