The NIH Targeting RNA in Disease with Novel Technologies (TRDNT) Challenge

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has announced Phase II of the Targeting RNA in Disease with Novel Technologies (TRDNT) Challenge, a prize competition designed to accelerate the development of novel, precision RNA-targeting technologies for diseases that have long been untreatable.

Phase II offers up to $7.8 million in total prizes, with a focus on prototype development and use case demonstration. Unlike a grant, this is a prize challenge, so winners may use the funds at their discretion to further develop their technology.

Phase II: Stage I is open to U.S-based academic RNA researchers, early-stage innovators, research organizations, and biotech startups, among others. Phase I participation is not required.