Breakthrough T1D, the Lupus Research Alliance, and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society are jointly funding one-year pilot studies that explore shared autoimmune mechanisms across multiple sclerosis (MS), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and type 1 diabetes (T1D). Researchers may request up to USD 150,000 to investigate immune pathways, validate therapeutic targets, identify biomarkers, or develop early-stage therapeutic strategies relevant to at least two of the three diseases. Applications are due January 8, 2026, with awards announced in June 2026.

Cross-Disease Autoimmunity Pilot Grants 2026

Funding for Research Linking MS, SLE, and T1D

Overview

Breakthrough T1D, the Lupus Research Alliance, and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society have launched a joint call for one-year pilot research studies aimed at improving scientific understanding of cross-disease autoimmune mechanisms. This initiative promotes collaboration across autoimmune research fields to identify shared pathways, therapeutic targets, and early biomarkers.

Purpose of the Funding Call

The program seeks to advance knowledge about the commonalities and differences in immune pathways that drive autoimmune conditions. By examining overlapping mechanisms, researchers can accelerate therapeutic innovation, reduce redundant research, and uncover novel cross-disease strategies.

Research Priorities

Eligible proposals must demonstrate clear relevance to at least two of the following:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS)

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

• Type 1 diabetes (T1D)

Priority topics include:

• Early biomarkers of autoimmunity

• Early-stage therapeutic strategies

• Autoimmune heterogeneity

• Shared immune pathways or mechanisms

• Target identification or validation

• Repurposing FDA-approved therapies for multiple autoimmune diseases

• Use of human samples or existing human datasets

What Will NOT Be Funded

The program will not consider proposals that:

• Lack relevance to MS, SLE, and T1D immune pathways

• Propose clinical trials

• Require more than one year to complete

Funding Details

• Maximum funding: USD 150,000 (including indirect costs)

• Project duration: 12 months

• Additional requirement: Include travel costs (up to USD 2,500) for an in-person update meeting

• Goal: Deliver proof-of-concept data that supports future multi-year collaborations

Who Is Eligible?

Applications are accepted from:

• Domestic and international non-profit institutions

• Academic institutions

• Government research units

• Qualified research centers

• For-profit entities (with additional documentation)

• Academic–industry collaborations

Principal investigators must:

• Hold a doctoral-level degree (PhD, MD, or equivalent)

• Have a faculty or equivalent research position

Application Process

All proposals must be submitted through RMS360 using required templates.

Required Components

• Full research proposal (no LOI phase)

• Biosketches

• Budget and justification

• Human subjects research documentation (if applicable)

• Resource sharing plan

• Relevance statement connecting research to MS, SLE, and T1D

Review Process

Applications will be reviewed by a Steering Committee and external scientific experts based on:

• Significance of research for cross-disease autoimmune science

• Innovation and originality

• Approach and feasibility

• Investigator qualifications

• Institutional research environment

Timeline

• Proposal Deadline: January 8, 2026

• Funding Decision: June 2026

• Earliest Start Date: August 2026

Tips for a Strong Application

• Clearly explain how your project targets two or more autoimmune diseases.

• Use human data or primary human samples, if possible.

• Demonstrate feasibility within a strict 12-month timeline.

• Emphasize novelty in mechanisms or target validation.

• Provide a focused, well-justified budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I submit research relevant to only one autoimmune disease?
No. The proposal must address mechanisms or therapeutic relevance for at least two of MS, SLE, and T1D.

2. Are clinical trials allowed?
No. Only preclinical, mechanistic, or proof-of-concept studies may be submitted.

3. Do for-profit companies qualify?
Yes, but they must provide additional compliance documents if selected for full submission.

4. Are postdoctoral researchers eligible to apply?
Only if they hold an independent investigator role equivalent to faculty.

5. Can projects include animal studies?
Yes, as long as they clearly inform cross-disease autoimmune pathways and meet the one-year timeline.

6. Is prior autoimmune research experience required?
Not required, but proposals must demonstrate strong scientific rationale relevant to MS, SLE, and T1D.

7. Can travel funds be excluded from the budget?
No. Attendance at the update meeting is mandatory, and travel costs (up to USD 2,500) must be included.

Conclusion

This joint funding call provides a major opportunity for researchers to explore shared autoimmune pathways across MS, SLE, and T1D. By supporting innovative one-year pilot studies, the initiative aims to generate foundational insights that drive future therapeutic breakthroughs and multi-disease research collaborations. Proposals are due January 8, 2026, with projects expected to begin in August 2026.