The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has launched the Neuromod Prize, a $9.8 million competition to accelerate the development of targeted neuromodulation therapies. The first phase calls on scientists, engineers, and clinicians to submit novel concepts and plans for development.
“Through the Neuromod Prize, we’re asking potential solvers to use the foundational knowledge and technologies that have come out of our SPARC program and take it to the next level with their innovative concepts and ideas. This competition is an exciting opportunity to come up with tangible plans for harnessing the power of the body’s electrical system to help transform treatments for millions of people living with chronic or acute illnesses.” — James M. Anderson, Director of the Division of Program Coordination, Planning, and Strategic Initiatives, NIH
About the competition NIH seeks groundbreaking uses of peripheral nerve stimulation that can independently regulate two or more desired autonomic functions without unintended effects on non-target organs. Concept papers are due by April 28, and up to eight winners will receive a share of the up to $800,000 Phase 1 prize pool.
Phase 1 winners will be exclusively invited to participate in future phases, anticipated to take place in 2022 and beyond. Phase 2 will have a total potential prize pool of $4 million, and Phase 3 will have a total potential prize pool of $5 million, subject to the availability of funds. Learn more about the Neuromod Prize in the press release.
__February 7 virtual information session __ To learn more about entering the competition, prospective participants can join a virtual information session on February 7. The NIH team will present an in-depth overview of the competition and answer questions. Register in advance to join the session.