NIH-NASA QuSAFE: Quantum- Enabled Predictive Preclinical NAMs

Submit ideas that use quantum-enabled sensors to test drug safety and toxicity

The NIH-NASA challenge seeks to improve detection and measurement in lab-grown human tissue models used to test drug toxicity and safety.

The challenge seeks proof of concept and prototype sensing systems that use quantum enabled approaches. Submissions must include quantum enabled solutions alone, or can be paired with classical sensors. Entries without a quantum-enabled sensor or that are software-only are out of scope.

The challenges has two stages:

ideation and planning
prototype development and demonstration

Key information
Sponsoring agency	National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Start date	10/26/2026 9:00 AM ET
End date	1/30/2030 5:00 PM ET
Challenge type	Ideation Scientific Technology demonstration and hardware
Prizes	Total cash prizes: $7,100,000 Non-monetary prize: certificates, challenge coins, honorable mentions, or similar recognition Winners may also collaborate with NIH-supported NAMs programs, pursue partnerships, and present at national and international meetings
Contact	info@qusafechallenge.com

Apply for the Challenge

These federal prize competitions are conducted pursuant to the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010, as amended by the American Innovation and Competitiveness Act of 2017. For complete rules, eligibility requirements, and terms and conditions, please visit the hosting agency's competition page.

LAST UPDATED: October 26, 2026

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