# NIH Invests in Human-Based Research Infrastructure

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is investing over **$88 million** in biomedical infrastructure projects across multiple U.S. states in 2026 to advance human-based research technologies and reduce reliance on animal models. This includes a **$7 million Quantum-Enabled Approaches for Predictive Preclinical NAMs for Toxicity and Safety (Qu-SAFE) Challenge** to develop quantum sensing systems, and the establishment of an autonomous human biology laboratory integrating organoid models with artificial intelligence. These initiatives aim to accelerate biomedical discovery and improve drug development relevance to human health. Procurement professionals should note the broad scope of these infrastructure projects and technology challenges, which present opportunities for vendors specializing in advanced biomedical technologies, quantum sensing, AI integration, and laboratory automation.

- **Why this matters:** NIH’s funding signals a strategic shift toward human-relevant biomedical research infrastructure, creating demand for innovative technology providers and research infrastructure contractors.
- Agencies and contractors involved in biomedical research infrastructure should evaluate participation in NIH’s quantum technology challenge and autonomous lab initiatives.
- Organizations supporting peer review and transparency in animal use reporting may find new roles as NIH enhances oversight through the Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW).
- Procurement teams should coordinate with NIH communications (NIHPress@nih.gov) for detailed solicitations and engagement opportunities related to these projects.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Healthcare, Information Technology
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure, Artificial Intelligence
**Published:** September 22, 2026

### Government Entities
- National Institutes of Health (NIH)
- Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW)
- Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)

### Key Quotes
> NIH is building the scientific infrastructure needed to develop, validate, and scale technologies that better reflect human biology.
> — Jay Bhattacharya, M.D., Ph.D., NIH Director

### Sources
- [NIH makes major investments to advance human-based research infrastructure and technologies | National Institutes of Health (NIH)](https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-makes-major-investments-advance-human-based-research-infrastructure-technologies) - NIH