Description
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is soliciting a single cooperative agreement with an existing partner of the Californian Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU) to develop an enhanced gene‑expression panel capable of distinguishing multiple stressors affecting wildlife and ecosystem health. The research will focus on field experiments with species such as California sea lions, sea otters, salmon, longfin smelt, mussels and clams, and will involve RNA isolation, sequencing or qPCR analysis, and identification of stress‑responsive genes. Funding is limited to $35,000 total, with $7,000 guaranteed for the first year and potential continuation for up to five years pending satisfactory progress. The award will support a One‑Health approach, generating data to inform monitoring programs, early‑warning systems, and management decisions.
• Eligible applicants: existing partners of the Californian CESU.
• Scope: field experiments, molecular lab work (RNA‑seq/qPCR), data analysis, and delivery of diagnostic tools.
• Duration: up to 5 years (1 base year + 4 optional years).
• Funding: $35,000 total (≈ $7,000 year 1, additional years contingent on performance).
• Deliverables: gene‑expression panel, data sets, technical reports, publications, and a Data Management Plan.
• Submission: via Grants.gov using opportunity number G27AS00037; deadline 11 Nov 2026.