Synopsis

This NOFO seeks proposals for rigorous applied research and evaluative studies on the forensic science system. The field of forensic science is changing, particularly as technological advancements improve the criminal justice system’s ability to use forensic evidence more effectively and efficiently. Research is needed to better understand the impact of forensic science on the criminal justice system and law enforcement operations. With this NOFO, NIJ requests applications in three topic areas: • The impact of forensic science on the criminal justice system and law enforcement operations, such as improving investigative clearance rates, increasing law enforcement effectiveness, and reducing crime lab backlogs. • Evaluations of the implementation of new and innovative forensic science methods and their impact on strengthening courtroom admissibility and evidentiary reliability. • Developing the forensic science workforce.
Response Date	Jun 02, 2026 12:00:00 AM EDT
Posting Date	Apr 30, 2026 12:00:00 AM EDT
Archive Date
Award Ceiling	2,000,000
Award Floor	N/a
Cost Sharing	No

Eligibility

Eligible Applicants

City or township governments, Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized), Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education, Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities, State governments, Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments), Special district governments, Private institutions of higher education, Small businesses, Others (see text field entitled "Additional Information on Eligibility" for clarification), County governments, For profit organizations other than small businesses, Independent school districts, Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education, Public and State controlled institutions of higher education

Additional Info on Eligibility:

Other Units of Local Government

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