The Biocodex Microbiota Foundation National Research Grant supports early career researchers advancing the understanding of the human gut microbiome and its role in health and disease. For the 2026 funding cycle, the Biocodex Microbiota Foundation invites proposals focused on “Harnessing the Gut Microbiome: Impacts on Health, Disease, Diagnosis and Therapeutics.” This annual national grant is designed to help promising investigators initiate or advance research that can lead to scientific independence.
Organization
Biocodex Microbiota Foundation
Support Type
Research grant (seeding / bridging grant)
Geographic Focus
United States (research must be conducted at a U.S.-based institution)
About the Funder
The Biocodex Microbiota Foundation is dedicated to advancing research and knowledge related to human microbiota. Through its national and international grant programs, the Foundation supports innovative, investigator-driven research and invests in the next generation of microbiome scientists by funding early career researchers working at the forefront of the field.
2026 Research Theme
Harnessing the Gut Microbiome: Impacts on Health, Disease, Diagnosis and Therapeutics
Proposed projects may be new studies or expansions of existing, ongoing research. The Foundation encourages projects that explore how the gut microbiome influences human health and disease, and how microbiome science can inform diagnostics and therapeutic approaches.
Funding Amount
- Total Grant Award: $50,000
- One grant will be awarded
- Funds are intended primarily for operational research costs
- Indirect institutional costs are allowed, up to 10%
- This is not a salary grant
Eligibility & Candidate Requirements
Applicants must:
- Hold an advanced degree
- Conduct research at a U.S.-based institution
- Have no more than 10 years of research experience post-terminal degree (clinical training time excluded)
The Foundation particularly encourages applications from early career researchers with 5 years or less research experience, and views this award as a seeding or bridging grant to support the transition toward research independence.
Applicants must agree to:
- Disclose any existing or pending funding for the proposed project
- Submit interim research reports every six months
- Submit a final report within six months of project completion
- Acknowledge Biocodex Microbiota Foundation support in all publications and communications
- Allow the Foundation to publicize non-confidential project summaries
- Notify the Foundation promptly if the study is discontinued
Application Timeline
- Application Deadline: Friday, May 22, 2026
- Notification of Award: By July 31, 2026
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Application Process
Applicants must complete the official application form and include a standard NIH biosketch. Completed applications should be submitted by email.
Apply / Learn More:
➡️ https://www.biocodexmicrobiotafoundation.com/national-research-grant/call-projects-usa
📧 Submit applications to: USAFoundation@biocodex.com
Review Process
Applications will be reviewed by an independent scientific jury composed of:
- Ruth Ann Luna, Texas Children’s Hospital & Baylor College of Medicine
- Mindy Engevik, Medical University of South Carolina
- Erica Sonnenburg, Stanford University
The jury’s decision is final.
Why This Opportunity Is a Good Fit
This grant is well suited for early career investigators seeking flexible, modest-scale funding to launch or sustain innovative microbiome research. It is particularly valuable for researchers developing preliminary data or bridging support between larger funding awards.
