The AI-driven RNA BioFoundry (AIRFoundry) is pleased to announce a call for proposals for seed grants aimed at advancing innovative research, education, and applications of RNA technologies. These grants are designed to support projects that leverage RNA and/or lipid nanoparticle technology for transformative outcomes across diverse fields of biotechnology, including agriculture, sustainability, food science, and animal health. AIRFoundry’s mission is to revolutionize the design, synthesis, and delivery of RNA, democratizing access to these tools for researchers worldwide.

Grant Details

Funding Amount: Up to $10,000 per award

Eligible Expenses: Grant funds may only be used for AIRFoundry services, which include:

  • Consultation as needed with AIRFoundry experts
  • RNA synthesis
  • Lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation and screening
  • A full list of services and pricing can be found on the Order page

Who Should Apply?

We welcome proposals from researchers in any field who seek to harness RNA technologies to address pressing scientific challenges or explore innovative applications. Projects at all stages of development, from exploratory studies to advanced applications, are encouraged. Additionally, we welcome proposals that incorporate RNA/LNP technology in education, such as for hands-on lesson plans or labs for high school or undergraduate courses.

Application Requirements

To apply, submit the following materials:

  1. Abstract
    • A concise summary (250 words max) of the proposed research, including its objectives and potential impact.
  2.  Proposal
    • A detailed description of the research project or educational curriculum (2-page maximum), addressing the following:
      • Background and significance
      • Research objectives and approach
      • Anticipated outcomes
  3. Biosketch
    • A CV or NIH/NSF-style biosketch highlighting relevant experience and accomplishments of the principal investigator(s).
  4. Budget Justification
    • A clear explanation of how the grant funds will be allocated for AIRFoundry services.

Submission Guidelines

  • Deadline: April 18, 2025, 8:00pm ET
  • Submission Method: Email your complete application package as a single PDF to airfoundry@seas.upenn.edu.
  • Subject Line: “AIRFoundry Seed Grant Application: [Your Project Title]”

Evaluation Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on the following:

  • Potential impact and alignment with AIRFoundry’s mission
  • Feasibility and clarity of the research plan
  • Effective use of AIRFoundry services
  • Innovation and originality of the proposed research

Important Dates

  • Application Deadline: April 18, 2025, 8:00pm ET
  • Notification of Awards: By May 20, 2025
  • Project Start Date: June 20, 2025

Requirements for Awardees

  • All publications related to this funding must include the acknowledgment, “This material is based on work supported by the National Science Foundation under Cooperative Agreement DBI – 2400327.”
  • The data generated during the development of your RNA/LNP products will contribute to enhancing our AI-driven design and knowledge-sharing platform (KAIR). Awardees are expected to provide a final report summarizing the outcomes and findings of their seed projects. Awardees may also be asked to meet with KAIR developers to share decision-making processes at different stages of the research project.

Questions?

For inquiries, please email airfoundry@seas.upenn.edu or send a message using our Get in Touch page.

We look forward to supporting your innovative research and empowering new discoveries with RNA technologies through the AIRFoundry Seed Grants program.