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The USDA and U.S. Department of Energy have opened a funding opportunity that aims to support genomics-based research that will lead to the improved use of biomass and plant feedstock for the production of biofuels and biochemicals.

Selected research projects would aim to overcome biological barriers, such as resistance and tolerance to disease and weather. The projects could also support the low-cost, high-quality, scalable and sustainable production of dedicated bioenergy biomass feedstocks using the tolls of genetics and genomics.

The USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agricultural Research, in partnership with the DOE’s Office of Biological and Environmental Research, are jointly supporting the effort, with NIFA’s support funded through the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative, which aims to address challenges in food and agricultural sciences through research, extension and education.

There is up to $6 million in funding available, with individual awards expected to range between $200,000 and $400,000. Pre-applications are due Feb. 9. Full applications must be submitted by April 20. Additional information is available on the NIFA website.