This FOA (RFA-CA-12-015), using the R01 funding mechanism, solicits applications for PQs in Group A. The companion FOA for PQs in Group A, using the R21 exploratory/developmental funding mechanism, is RFA-CA-12-016. PQs in this group challenge investigators to seek answers to specific unsolved problems generally related to investigation of changes in behavior and various exposure risks, mechanistic links between cancer risk factors and biological events associated with cancer development, and how we might identify and better understand prevention mechanisms.

Each research project proposed in response to this FOA must be focused on solving one particular research problem defined by one specific PQ selected from the list in Group A. Projects proposed to address specific PQs may use strategies that incorporate ideas and approaches from multiple disciplines, as appropriate. Transdisciplinary projects are encouraged as long as they serve the scientific focus of the specific PQ chosen.

The other three groups of PQs (and their respective FOAs) are:

• Group B covered by RFA-CA-12-017 (R01) and RFA-CA-12-018 (R21) that generally relates to mechanisms of tumor development or recurrence;
• Group C covered by RFA-CA-12-019 (R01) and RFA-CA-12-020 (R21) that generally relates to cancer detection, diagnosis, and prognosis; and
• Group D covered by RFA-CA-12-021 (R01) and RFA-CA-12-022 (R21) that generally relates to cancer therapy and outcomes.

An overview of all PQs FOAs and general guidelines are provided in the NIH Guide Notice NOT-CA-12-014.  Prospective applicants are encouraged to take advantage of this Notice as a tool to facilitate optimal selection among PQs FOAs.