The 2021 Expand into Multiomics Grant is now closed. Thank you to all applicants.

Winners Announcement

We are pleased to announce the recipients of the DNA Genotek and Diversigen 2021 Expand into multiomics Grant Program. Please join us in congratulating these outstanding researchers. We wish we could have awarded more grants as we reviewed so many worthy and outstanding applications. Thank you to everyone who applied – we wish you all much success in your research endeavours. 

Principal Investigator: Jonas Schluter 

Institution: NYU Langone Health 

Project Name: High resolution, deep multiomics timeseries analysis to elucidate the influence of the gut microbiome on CAR T-cell therapy 

Abstract:  Microbial populations in the human gut microbiome are associated with the human immune system, though causal directions and mechanisms are scarcely known. This proposal aims to develop a pilot project focused on detecting candidate mechanisms by which the microbial populations in the gut may influence the dynamics of CAR T-cells in circulation. This project suggests that specific microbial taxa accelerate the rates at which leukocyte populations repopulate the circulation of cancer patients following chemotherapy and stem cell transplantation. 

Grant – Metagenomics analysis: Develop an end-to-end microbiome project from collection to analysis 

Award & Amounts: Total value (up to) $50,000 USD. This includes (up to) $30,000 USD in Diversigen metagenomic services, (up to) $15,000 USD in financial support, and (up to) 250 DNA Genotek collection kits to facilitate collection of microbial DNA or RNA for use in the execution of the winning proposal. Exact product and format to be determined in conjunction with the winner. In addition to the award value, the winner of this grant will be eligible to receive support from DNA Genotek and Diversigen’s Product Management, Service Coordination, Marketing, R&D and Bioinformatician teams to help validate the concept, study design and/or donor recruitment campaigns.

Principal Investigator: Sarbattama Sen 

Institution: Brigham & Women’s Hospital 

Project: Lactation Lab: Maternal & Infant Metabolome & Microbiome Study 

Abstract: Breastfeeding is critical to the health of mothers and infants. Children who are breastfed have decreased risk of asthma, obesity, type 1 diabetes, and gastrointestinal infections. The Maternal & Infant Metabolome & Microbiome (MIMM) Study has been undertaken within the Lactation Lab to delineate the maternal predictors of the breastmilk microbiome and metabolome and to determine how the breastmilk microbiome is associated with the infant microbiome and growth and neurodevelopment outcomes. This research project aims to determine the maternal predictors of the breastmilk metabolome and microbiome, along to examine the associations between the maternal, breastmilk, and infant microbiome, and quantify the associations of breastfeeding duration (any and exclusive) and breastmilk microbiome composition with infant (adiposity and neurodevelopment) and maternal (body composition) outcomes. 

Grant – Multiomic sampling: Incorporate two or more “omics” sample types into your project 

Award & Amounts: Total value (up to) $50,000 USD. This includes (up to) $20,000 USD in financial support and (up to) 2,000 DNA Genotek sample collection kits to facilitate the collection of DNA, RNA or metabolites for use in the execution of the winning proposal. Exact product and format to be determined in conjunction with the winner. In addition to the award value, the winner of this grant will be eligible to receive support from DNA Genotek and Diversigen’s Product Management, Service Coordination, Marketing, R&D and Bioinformatician teams to help validate the concept, study design and/or donor recruitment campaigns. 

About the Grant

In effort to support the research community in accessing and understanding multi-layered information and multiomic data sets as it applies to human health and disease states, sister companies DNA Genotek and Diversigen are offering grants for research that are focused on two or more ‘omes’ – such as genomics, microbiomics metabolomics, or transcriptomics. The goal of a multiomic study approach is to derive at more meaningful biological correlations or associations by analyzing interconnected datasets which ultimately powers more discoveries and possible new treatments to improve health.

DNA Genotek and Diversigen intend to award two (2) research grants valued (up to) $50,000 USD each in a combination of financial support, DNA Genotek collection kits for human genomics, microbiome and metabolomics samples, and Diversigen metagenomic services including extraction, sequencing and analysis.

About Multiomics

“The whole is greater than the sum of the parts” (Aristotle). This is the basis behind “multi-omics,” defined as the approach where insights from two or more “omics” data sets (e.g., genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, metabolomic, etc.) are combined during analysis to derive biological correlation or association. With recent technological advances accelerating our ability to produce data for each separate “ome,” many researchers have found themselves generating more questions than answers. Fortunately, by adopting a multi-omics approach these researchers are given the opportunity to search out answers in areas previously not achievable to them. The possibilities for novel discoveries and more translatable results grow exponentially when taking a multi-omics approach, making this an exciting time in human health and disease.

 

Grant Details

The DNA Genotek & Diversigen 2021 Expand into Multiomics Grant Program will reward scientists who are incorporating a multiomic and/or metagenomic approach to their research, utilizing DNA Genotek’s human genomics or microbiome / metabolomics products and/or Diversigen’s metagenomic services for sample extraction, sequencing and interpretation.

You are a genomics scientist, adding a microbiome sample type to a genomics study (or vice versa).

You are a microbiome scientist, adding two or more sample types (stool, oral, vaginal, skin) or analytes (DNA, RNA, metabolites) to a microbiome project.

How would you utilize a multiomic approach to help facilitate human health research?

Design a study that combines the microbiome, human genomics, and phenotypic data from a well-defined patient population. The study should provide unique insights, not achievable by examining one ‘ome’ in isolation. The study should also demonstrate the power of a systems biology approach to a problem while leveraging DNA Genotek’s human genomics and microbiome / metabolomics products products for sample acquisition.

Award & Amounts

Total value (up to) $50,000 USD. This includes (up to) $20,000 USD in financial support and (up to) 2,000 DNA Genotek sample collection kits to facilitate the collection of DNA, RNA or metabolites for use in the execution of the winning proposal. Exact product and format to be determined in conjunction with the winner.

In addition to the award value, winner(s) of this grant will be eligible to receive support from DNA Genotek and Diversigen’s Product Management, Service Coordination, Marketing, R&D and Bioinformatician teams to help validate the concept, study design and/or donor recruitment campaigns.

You are a genomics or microbiome scientist, looking for end-to-end microbiome project support – including sample collection, extraction, sequencing, and data interpretation.

How would you develop a metagenomic project to expand human health research?

Design a study that incorporates the microbiome into human genomics and/or phenotypic data sets from a well-defined patient population. The study should provide unique insights, not achievable by examining genomics in isolation. The study should also demonstrate the power of a systems biology approach to a problem while leveraging Diversigen’s metagenomic services for sample extraction, sequencing and interpretation. The project may use raw or frozen microbial samples and/or DNA Genotek’s microbiome collection products for stool, skin, oral or vaginal sample acquisition.

Award & Amounts

Total value (up to) $50,000 USD. This includes (up to) $30,000 USD in Diversigen metagenomic services, (up to) $15,000 USD in financial support, and (up to) 250 DNA Genotek collection kits to facilitate collection of microbial DNA or RNA for use in the execution of the winning proposal. Exact product and format to be determined in conjunction with the winner.

In addition to the award value, winner(s) of this grant will be eligible to receive support from DNA Genotek and Diversigen’s Product Management, Service Coordination, Marketing, R&D and Bioinformatician teams to help validate the concept, study design and/or donor recruitment campaigns.

  • One entry per investigative team. Investigators in all countries are eligible.
  • All submitted materials must be in English.
  • Applicants who have a relative or member of their household currently employed by an DNA Genotek Inc., Diversigen, Inc. or any of their Affiliates are ineligible to enter.
  • Applicant is responsible for ensuring that all necessary and legally required informed consents, authorizations, approvals, and permissions have been obtained in order to participate in this program including any required Internal Review Board (IRB) approvals.
  • Applicant agrees that the project will be complete (data generated and analyzed) within 1 year of the date of the award winner being selected. If the project is impacted by the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, a delay of 6 months will be accepted upon written request from the winner. After this period, any remaining grant funds will not be provided.
  • Grant award allocation is to be paid as follows:
  • Financial support amount to be provided by wire transfer in one installment to winner’s academic institution before December 31, 2021.
  • DNA Genotek collection kits to be shipped upon request to winner’s academic institution by December 31, 2021.
  • Diversigen services must be consumed (at Diversigen’s standard fees) within one (1) year from grant winner announcement.
  • Institutional overhead costs are restricted to a maximum of 5% of the funds awarded as part of this program.
  • Applicants must agree to DNA Genotek product terms and conditions and & Diversigen services terms and conditions.
  • In order to receive products or services as part of the research grant, applicants must allow DNA Genotek and Diversigen to publicly announce their name, project name or area of research, and institution or company if they are selected as a winner.
  • DNA Genotek and Diversigen will keep all abstracts, applicant names and institutions, and all information submitted in the program applications process confidential, except in the case of the winners.
  • All decisions of the selection committee are final. The selection process is confidential.
  • The winner agrees to provide a written progress report on the project to DNA Genotek and Diversigen 6 months after receipt of the award.
  • The winner agrees that within 30 days of the completion date of the project, they will submit a written financial report outlining the use of award funds as well as a written report on all findings, raw data, results, and information as a result of the project. Unless communicated and agreed upon with the originator, raw data will only be used internally.
  • Applications will only be accepted for consideration if sent to DNA Genotek and Diversigen via the online application form. All other applications will be rejected and destroyed. Under no circumstances will any materials be returned.
  • Applicants agree to comply with the Additional Grant Programs terms and conditions. (See below)

Additional Grant Program Terms & Conditions

  • The applicant agrees that they have read, understood and agree to be bound by all of the DNA Genotek and Diversigen Grant Program Rules and by these Additional Terms and Conditions.
  • By applying, the applicant represents and warrants that:
    • They have obtained all required authorizations and permissions from their institution or company.
    • They will not violate any of their institution’s or company’s rules, policies, or procedures by applying to this Grant Program.
    • Their institution or company has agreed to be bound by all of the Grant Program Rules (See above) and by these Additional Terms and Conditions.
  • DNA Genotek and Diversigen are not responsible for applicant’s actions or decisions or those of their employees or agents.
  • DNA Genotek and Diversigen reserve the right to discontinue or modify the Grant Program at any time and for any reason. In such event, DNA Genotek and Diversigen will post a notice on this webpage. In the event of discontinuation of the Grant Program, DNA Genotek and Diversigen will have no liability to any existing or possible applicant or applicant’s employees or agents for such cancellation or modification.
  • DNA Genotek or Diversigen may refuse to award the prize to any or all applicants if DNA Genotek or Diversigen determines at its sole discretion that the granting of such award would likely result in a violation of an applicable federal, state or local law, rule or policy.
  • DNA Genotek and Diversigen may withhold the award until the winner has obtained all necessary IRB approvals.
  • The successful applicant will own any intellectual property arising from the results that are free of any encumbrances and may take such steps as it may decide from time to time, and at its own expense, to register and maintain any protection for that intellectual property, including filing and prosecuting patent applications for any of the results.
  • The winner and their employees and agents hereby irrevocably authorize DNA Genotek and Diversigen to copy, exhibit, publish, and distribute images, audio, video and other works based upon the submission, oral discussions, and presentations, solely for DNA Genotek and Diversigen marketing purposes. Applicant hereby releases and holds harmless DNA Genotek and Diversigen and forever discharges DNA Genotek and Diversigen from any and all claims, demands, and causes of action which may arise by reason of this authorization.
  • Each applicant is responsible for all of their own costs, and the costs of its employees and agents, that are incurred or that may be incurred in connection with this Grant Program, including, without limitation, any tax liability and any costs associated with entering into and participating in this Grant Program, developing ideas and materials, submitting materials, traveling and generally participating in the Grant Program.
  • Applicant understands and agrees that no ideas, information, or materials that are submitted to or otherwise provided to DNA Genotek or Diversigen in connection with this Grant Program will be returned.
  • Each applicant and their employees and agents agree to accept and abide by the Grant Program Rules and agrees that any dispute with regard to the conduct of the Grant Program, rule interpretation or the award of the prizes, shall be resolved by DNA Genotek and Diversigen, whose decision shall be binding and final. By participating, each applicant and their employees and agents agree to release and hold harmless DNA Genotek and Diversigen and all of its officers, directors, employees, agents and representatives, from any injury, loss or damage, including death or property damage, due in-whole or in-part, directly or indirectly to the acceptance, use, or misuse of a grant, participation in any Grant Program-related activity, or participation in the Grant Program. DNA Genotek and Diversigen are not responsible for any typographical or other error herein, administration of the Grant Program or in the announcement of the award, including such error as may give an erroneous indication that an award has been won.
  • The funds awarded under this Grant Program may not be used for any purposes other than those described in the application form. Any products awarded under this Grant Program may not be re-sold or used for any other purposes other than that described in the Grant Program application. Unused products must be returned upon completion of the project.
  • IN NO EVENT SHALL DNA GENOTEK OR DIVERSIGEN, ITS OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, OR AGENTS, OR THOSE OF ITS AFFILIATES BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, PUNITIVE, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES WHATSOEVER ARISING UNDER OR AS A RESULT OF ENTRANCE IN OR PARTICIPATION IN THE GRANT PROGRAM, WHETHER BASED ON WARRANTY, CONTRACT, TORT, STRICT LIABILITY, OR ANY OTHER LEGAL THEORY, AND WHETHER OR NOT DNA GENOTEK OR DIVERSIGEN IS ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES, THE FOREGOING LIMITATION OF LIABILITY SHALL APPLY TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW. THE TOTAL LIABILITY OF DNA GENOTEK AND DIVERSIGEN AND ITS AFFILIATES ARISING UNDER OR RELATING TO THIS GRANT PROGRAM SHALL NOT EXCEED THE TOTAL VALUE OF THE PRIZE AWARDED TO THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT UNDER THIS GRANT PROGRAM.
  • For the purpose of this Agreement, the term “Affiliate” shall mean any corporation or other business entity controlling, controlled by or under common control with a party; and for such purpose, “control” shall mean direct or indirect ownership of: i) fifty percent (50%) or more of the voting interest in such corporation or other entity; ii) fifty percent (50%) or more of the interest in the profit or income in the case of an entity other than a corporation; or iii) in the case of a partnership, control of the general partner. The name of each party appearing herein or in any Grant Program application shall be deemed to be the name of each such Affiliate of that party to the extent necessary to carry out the intent of this Agreement and provided further that the performance of the obligations of any such Affiliate shall be deemed guaranteed by the party to this Agreement.

Application

 

Winners Announced: October 1st, 2021 on www.dnagenotek.com and www.diversigen.com

If you have any questions about the DNA Genotek Grant Program, please email grants@dnagenotek.com