Fiscal Year 2026 Phase II Continuation Consolidated Innovative Nuclear Research

The Department of Energy's (DOE) Office of Nuclear Energy is seeking applications for the Fiscal Year 2026 Consolidated Innovative Nuclear Research (CINR) Phase II Continuation. The program aims to support university-led research teams in conducting innovative nuclear energy research and development. Eligible applicants include U.S. universities and colleges, as well as other domestic entities. The program will provide funding for up to two years, with an estimated total funding of $3 million. The application process involves submitting a letter of intent and a full application, with deadlines on January 21, 2026, and May 20, 2026, respectively. • The program's goals include keeping existing U.S. nuclear reactors operating, deploying new nuclear reactors, securing and sustaining the nuclear fuel cycle, and expanding international nuclear energy cooperation. • Applicants must demonstrate a strong tie to at least one of these goals and highlight how their research supports DOE priorities. • The program encourages collaborations between universities, industry, and national laboratories. • Applications will be evaluated based on their technical merit, relevance to the program's goals, and potential impact on the nuclear energy sector.