Synopsis

This funding opportunity seeks proposals for research and evaluation studies to produce practical knowledge that has the potential to improve the examination and interpretation of physical evidence in forensic science laboratories across the community of practice. This program furthers DOJ’s mission by supporting the development of new knowledge and tools to address the challenges of crime and justice in the United States. NIJ’s Forensic Science Strategic Research Plan and Forensic Science R&D Technology Working Group (TWG) identify current research priorities and technology challenges encountered in operational forensic science laboratories. Research-based knowledge and newly developed tools that work towards addressing these priorities and resolving these challenges facilitate the criminal justice community’s ability to enforce the law, promote public safety, prevent and reduce crime, and ensure fair and impartial administration of justice.
Response Date	Feb 18, 2026 12:00:00 AM EST
Posting Date	Feb 11, 2026 12:00:00 AM EST
Archive Date
Award Ceiling	930,640
Award Floor	N/a
Cost Sharing	No

Eligibility

Eligible Applicants	Others (see text field entitled "Additional Information on Eligibility" for clarification)
Additional Info on Eligibility:	Only the applicant that received an official invitation letter from NIJ is able and eligible to apply. Please refer to that letter for eligibility requirements.

Additional Information

Agency Name	National Institute of Justice
Link to Additional Information:	Full Announcement
Grantor Contact Information:	If you have difficulty accessing the full announcement electronically, please contact: GrantSolutions Help Desk Phone: 202-616-5314

CFDA Program(s)

• 16.560: National Institute of Justice Research, Evaluation, and Development Project Grants