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Fundamental Science Research on the Neural Circuits Underlying Sensory Processing
When beginning your next investigator-initiated application, consider the following NIH highlighted topic. The area of science described below is of interest to the listed NIH Institutes, Centers, and Offices (ICOs). This is not a notice of funding opportunity (NOFO).
Apply through an appropriate NIH Parent Funding Announcement or another broad NIH opportunity available on Grants.gov. Learn how to interpret and use Highlighted Topics.
Topic Description
Post Date: January 22, 2026
Expiration Date: January 22, 2028
The purpose of this highlighted topic is to encourage multidisciplinary and innovative research efforts to advance a mechanistic understanding of the behavior of neural circuits at cellular and sub-second temporal resolution by integrating cutting-edge technologies and approaches for recording and modulation of cells and circuits (e.g., electrophysiology, optical imaging, optogenetics, chemogenetics, sonogenetics, magnetogenetics, pharmacologic modulation). Applications are expected to foster interdisciplinary collaborations across distinct domains of expertise, including but not limited to biological, chemical and physical sciences, engineering, computational modeling, statistical analysis, and bioethics. Mechanistic human studies and comparative, cross-species projects, are highly encouraged.
Participating ICOs
The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) prioritizes basic and mechanistic research on neural circuits underlying sensory processing in hearing, balance, taste and smell.
ICO Scientific Contact:Merav Sabri, PhD
[email protected]
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