In brief
- In July 2026, NIH joined the Department of Energy-led Genesis Mission, with plans to focus on six themes.
- NIH efforts are being coordinated by Chief AI Officer Brad Bower, whose office is leading cross-agency workstreams.
- Early extramural opportunities include two prize competitions targeted for launch in December 2026 on biomedical foundation models and trusted AI access to protected biomedical data.
Bio Genesis leadership sits in the newly proposed Office of the Chief AI Officer (OCAIO), within the Office of the NIH Director. The office lacks grant-making authority, suggesting near-term funding mechanisms would likely take the form of prize competitions, Other Transaction opportunities and/or partnerships with institutes on Highlighted Topics.
In fall 2026 Advisory Councils, Dr. Bower described Bio Genesis plans as early stage, with one area of emphasis being federated data infrastructure and compute access. Preliminary developments include the launch of a Bio Genesis Autonomous Human Biology Laboratory within the Clinical Center and establishment of interagency MOUs.
Discussions at the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) and National Library of Medicine (NLM) revealed that NIH is developing plans to launch two Bio Genesis prize competitions in December to drive development of biomedical foundation models and trusted AI access to protected biomedical data.
Preliminary challenge structure, as presented at a 9/15/26 National Library of Medicine meeting (discussion begins just before timestamp 1:09).
What we’re watching
- Near-term strategies include monitoring Highlighted Topics and Challenges and following Dr. Bower’s posts on LinkedIn for Bio Genesis updates.
- NIH’s forthcoming strategic plan on AI, which is expected in late 2026, will expand on priorities.
- Concept clearances at winter 2027 advisory councils, followed by the Administration’s budget request for federal fiscal year 2028, could add insight on future directions.
Additional Context
- U-M’s Office of National Labs is coordinating activities to prepare for Genesis Mission opportunities.