Ethical, Legal and Social Implications (ELSI) Exploratory/Developmental Research Grant (R21 Clinical Trial Optional)
Last verified by NonDilute: 2026-06-08. Official notice and agency instructions control.
Fund research on the societal, legal, and ethical fallout of new genomic technologies—without building the tech itself.
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What this is
This NIH funding mechanism supports early-stage research examining how new or emerging genomic technologies affect society, individuals, and policy. Applicants can use empirical methods (surveys, interviews), quantitative analysis, conceptual frameworks, or legal scholarship to explore ELSI questions in human genetics. The program welcomes involvement of key stakeholders and is open to nonprofits, universities, small businesses, tribal organizations, and government entities. This is not a technology development grant—it funds social science, ethics, and policy research around genomics.
Who can apply
Nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status, public/private universities, small businesses, tribal governments, state/local governments, and for-profit organizations are all eligible. U.S. citizenship or permanent residency may be required; check NIH institution eligibility and PI requirements.
Eligible applicant types
- Others (see text field entitled "Additional Information on Eligibility" for clarification)
- Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments)
- Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education
- Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities
- Small businesses
- County governments
- State governments
- Public and State controlled institutions of higher education
- City or township governments
- Independent school districts
- For profit organizations other than small businesses
- Private institutions of higher education
- Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education
- Special district governments
- Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized)
Full description — from the agency
The purpose of this NOFO is to invite Exploratory/Developmental Research Grant (R21) applications that propose to study the ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) of human genetics and genomics. Applications may propose studies using either single or mixed methods. Approaches may include but are not limited to empirical qualitative and quantitative methods, as well as conceptual, legal, and normative analyses. Direct involvement of key stakeholders where appropriate is encouraged. Of particular interest are studies that explore the implications of new or emerging genomic technologies or novel uses of genomic information.
Topics: genomics ethics · social implications genetics · health policy research · bioethics · emerging genomic technologies · qualitative research · stakeholder engagement
Public-source funding discovery only. This summary is generated from public agency data and may be incomplete or stale. NonDilute is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of any government agency. Official notices and agency instructions control. NonDilute does not determine eligibility, provide grant-writing advice, or guarantee funding.