Transformative Non-Invasive/Minimally Invasive Technologies for Imaging the Olfactory System Across Scales (R01 CT Optional)
About
The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), with the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB) aims to support the development and/or adaptation of transformative in vivo high-resolution/high specificity imaging of the human olfactory system. Currently, there are limited non-invasive/minimally invasive technologies available for imaging the living human peripheral and central olfactory system with high spatial and temporal resolution. Imaging the olfactory system in the laboratory and in the clinic is essential to understanding underlying biological mechanisms as well as the etiology of an olfactory disorder. Such imaging has proven challenging due to the olfactory system"s unique anatomical and functional characteristics such as restricted accessibility, multiple cell types, and low signal resolution. Addressing these challenges requires multimodal approaches including leveraging existing advanced tools and technologies and developing new tools tailored for the olfactory system. Recent advances in minimally invasive and non-invasive imaging technologies, such as cell specific biomarkers, fluorescence imaging, specialized endoscopes, optical and acoustic imaging, molecular imaging, and hemodynamic and diffusion imaging have the potential to transform our ability to image and investigate the peripheral and central olfactory system in the living human with superior temporal and spatial resolution and eventually improve.
This grant program, offered jointly by the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) and the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB), is designed for researchers and innovators developing transformative imaging technologies for the olfactory system. The program supports the creation and adaptation of non-invasive and minimally invasive in vivo imaging methods that can visualize both the peripheral and central olfactory system with high spatial and temporal resolution. This grant is ideal for biomedical engineers, imaging specialists, and clinical researchers who are addressing current gaps in olfactory imaging technology. Current limitations in imaging the olfactory system stem from its unique anatomical characteristics, restricted accessibility, multiple cell types, and low signal resolution. Applicants should focus on multimodal approaches that leverage advanced tools such as fluorescence imaging, specialized endoscopes, optical and acoustic imaging, molecular imaging, and hemodynamic or diffusion imaging. Funding supports development of new tools tailored specifically for olfactory system investigation in living human subjects. Success in this area could advance understanding of olfactory disorder etiology and improve clinical diagnostic and research capabilities. This is an excellent opportunity for U.S.-based organizations committed to transforming how we image and investigate the olfactory system.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
August 21, 2028
Award Amount
Up to $500K
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Grant Amount
Up to $500K
Deadline
2028-08-21
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Annual (Deadline: August 21, 2028)
Best For
U.S.-based biomedical researchers, imaging technologists, and clinical institutions developing olfactory imaging technologies
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 not eligible to apply.Non-domestic (non-U.S.) components of U.S. Organizations are not eligible to apply.Foreign components, as defined in the NIH Grants Policy Statement, are not allowed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Transformative Non-Invasive/Minimally Invasive Technologies for Imaging the Olfactory System Across Scales (R01 CT Optional)?
Domestic (U.S.) entities are eligible to apply. Non-domestic (non-U.S.) organizations, non-domestic components of U.S. organizations, and foreign components are not eligible. For complete eligibility requirements, including institutional and researcher qualifications, refer to Section III. Eligibility Information in the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) on the official NIH website.
How much funding does Transformative Non-Invasive/Minimally Invasive Technologies for Imaging the Olfactory System Across Scales (R01 CT Optional) provide?
Funding is available up to $500,000. For specific details on funding mechanisms, budget periods, and any variations by fiscal year, consult the official NOFO on the NIH grants website.
How do I apply for Transformative Non-Invasive/Minimally Invasive Technologies for Imaging the Olfactory System Across Scales (R01 CT Optional)?
Applications are submitted through the NIH electronic submission system (Grants.gov or eRA Commons). You must register your institution and ensure institutional signing official authorization. Detailed application instructions, required forms, and submission guidelines are available in the official NOFO. Visit the NIH website to access the complete NOFO and begin your application process.
What can Transformative Non-Invasive/Minimally Invasive Technologies for Imaging the Olfactory System Across Scales (R01 CT Optional) funding be used for?
Funding supports development and adaptation of transformative in vivo imaging technologies for the olfactory system. This includes research into non-invasive and minimally invasive imaging methods, multimodal imaging approaches, specialized imaging tools, and clinical applications. The focus is on creating high-resolution, high-specificity imaging technologies that can investigate both peripheral and central olfactory system structures and function in living human subjects to advance understanding of olfactory disorders and mechanisms.
Last updated: July 5, 2026