We provide funding support for the research and development of new non-hormonal, reversible male contraceptives.
Male Contraceptive Initiative supports science that moves male contraceptives forward. We support a broad program of research including discovery-stage and pre-clinical studies across the drug and device realms. We also support young researchers, development of tools that promote the field, and social science that illustrates the demand and need for male contraceptives. On this page we feature information about our funding schemes, links to internal and external announcements, and contact information.
Discovery and Development
These awards support promising development programs advancing towards first-in-man studies. |
Innovation Grants
These grants support exciting early stage research in previously unexplored areas – investing in the future. |
Other Funding
We look for innovative opportunities and investments in the field of male contraception research. |
Trainee Support
We support graduate and postdoctoral trainees, allowing them to grow their careers and build their own programs. |
|
At Male Contraceptive Initiative, we believe that new ideas can come to fruition in myriad ways. We support scientists, students, and researchers across the globe, working in academia, private industry, and nonprofits.
Our funding portfolio of long and short term investments in the field accelerate the development of contraceptives like devices that can last for years, on-demand contraceptives, or daily pills. Other areas of investment include market research, moonshot projects, and early career support for young investigators. Looking for funding opportunities? Click here. |
Male Contraceptive Initiative's Funding Strategy
|
MCI's Funding Activities by Development Phase
MCI's Funding Mechanisms
MCI's Research Focus of Active Grants
|
MCI's Funding Activities by Product Type
|
What are the male birth control research activities is MCI supporting?
The science of male birth control can be a little intimidating if you do not have a background in science. To counter this, we created this section to make the work we are supporting a bit more accessible to the general public.
A single injection that ensures a man cannot cause a pregnancy for years and is completely reversible.
|
Our grantee Contraline has invented a proprietary hydrogel called ADAM™ that is implanted into the vas deferens through a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure.
The hydrogel works by blocking sperm from traveling through the vas deferens. Similar to intrauterine devices (IUDs) for women, Contraline’s contraceptive is designed to last for years and be reversible. MCI’s support will be used by Contraline to prepare for filing with the FDA and initiating first-in-human trials. |
A reversible male birth control that impacts the head of the sperm, preventing it from fertilizing an egg.
|
Our grantee Dr. Wei Yan and his team of researchers have developed a new compound derived from a Chinese herb called the Thunder God vine (Tripterygium Wilfordii Hook F).
The compound works by causing the head of sperm to be malformed such that they are not able to connect with and fertilize a female egg. This effect only occurs while the compound is consumed, and normal function is fully restored after discontinuing use. MCI’s support allowed Dr. Yan and his team to explore the effects of the compound and publish their results. Because of MCI’s grant, our sister organization Contraceptive Accelerator Network is performing nonclinical studies on Triptonide that advance it towards human studies. |
|
Our grantee Dr. Mario Buffone has been working in the field of sperm physiology for two decades. His lab seeks to understand the complex process of mammalian sperm capacitation, the change sperm undergo in the female reproductive tract that enables them to penetrate and fertilize an egg.
Dr. Buffone is working to screen and identify drugs that are able to prevent the capacitation and therefore render sperm incapable of fertilizing an egg. MCI is supporting the Buffone lab’s studies with the intent of moving towards in vivo preclinical studies. |
A biodegradable implant injected just below the skin’s surface that can deliver a male contraceptive over a sustained period of time.
|
Our grantee Dr. Rahima Benhabbour designs and fabricates delivery platforms for HIV prevention, cancer treatment, and contraception.
Dr. Benhabbour launched her first start-up AnelleO, Inc. in 2016, focusing on developing 3D-printed intravaginal rings for the treatment of infertility. MCI’s support will help facilitate studies that develop and implement an injectable device that can carry drug and translate into human studies. |
A daily, or even on-demand, method of male birth control that prevent sperm from being able to swim when taken.
|
Our grantee Dr. Gunda Georg’s group has published over 200 scientific articles on the design, synthesis, and evaluation of biologically active agents. In addition to male contraception, her lab investigates areas of cancer and female contraception.
Dr. Georg's lab has focused on investigating the testis-specific serine kinase (TSSK) family. These proteins are expressed after sperm have been developed, and are likely involved in multiple steps that could make them excellent contraceptive targets. MCI’s support will help Dr. Georg’s team investigate the sperm-specific isoform of Na,K-ATPase, which is crucial for sperm motility (e.g., sperm’s ability to swim). |
|
Our grantee Dr. Mike O’Rand is the President and Chief Scientific Officer of Eppin Pharma, named after the protein EPPIN which is a critical component of sperm development.
Dr. O’Rand is developing a compound called EP055, a small organic compound that that targets EPPIN on the surface of sperm and prevents sperm from swimming. MCI’s support will help support Dr. O’Rand Investigational New Drug (IND)-enabling milestones that are required for Eppin Pharma to begin the process of entering first-in-man studies for EP055. |
A reversible male birth control method that causes sperm to become sterile.
|
Our grantee Dr. Stephen L’Hernault and his lab have worked on spermatogenesis (i.e., sperm creation) and fertilization for over 30 years.
Dr. L’Hernault is working on developing compounds that can block the function of the IZUMO1 protein, which is required to fertilize an egg. MCI’s support will help Dr. L’Hernault’s team to identify small compounds that reversibly block the function of the IZUMO1 protein. |
A cohort of excited young researchers motivated by curiosity, ambition, and the social good associated with male birth control.
|
Our Fellowship program features a mix of graduate and postdoctoral trainees, all working towards creating non-hormonal, reversible male contraceptive methods.
Our Fellows work on a diverse portfolio of projects that help move the male birth control forward. Our support allows our distinguished Fellows to focus on the research, publish data, and build the background they need to sustain a long career as an investigator. |
An on-demand method of male birth control that you take just before sex.
|
Drs. Lonny Levin and Jochen Buck are professors at Weill Cornell Medicine and are working on inhibitors of soluble adenylyl cyclase (sAC) as on-demand male contraceptives. Their deep expertise in sAC keeps them attuned to the effects of inhibitors on sperm functions such as motility.
MCI is supporting work that develops novel inhibitors of sAC as on-demand male contraceptives as well as translational research that assesses the pharmacodynamics of inhibitors on human sperm. These steps are crucial to understanding how the drug stays associated to sperm after ejaculation and its potential contraceptive efficacy. |
Current MCI Research Funding
Grants & Program-related Investments
MCI's 2023 Grant cycle is now open! MCI plans to fund multiple awards that will allow investigators to take defined, measurable steps forward in male contraceptive research and development. Those interested in applying are encouraged to click the button below to avail application details for the various awards, and please also reach out to us with any questions:
MCI's 2023 Grant cycle is now open! MCI plans to fund multiple awards that will allow investigators to take defined, measurable steps forward in male contraceptive research and development. Those interested in applying are encouraged to click the button below to avail application details for the various awards, and please also reach out to us with any questions:
-------------------------
MCI-BCM Sponsored Target Screening
This opportunity will facilitate the screening of validated male contraceptive targets for small-molecule inhibitors using the DNA-Encoded Chemistry Technology (DEC-Tec) core facilities available in the lab of Dr. Martin Matzuk and Center for Drug Discovery at Baylor College of Medicine (BCM). The purpose of this opportunity is to allow investigators with validated male contraceptive targets to utilize state-of-the-art screening facilities to identify “hit” molecules that bind to the target of interest.
We are now accepting applications for the MCI-BCM Sponsored Target Screening Award. Please see the application announcement for details, and reach out to us with any questions.
This opportunity will facilitate the screening of validated male contraceptive targets for small-molecule inhibitors using the DNA-Encoded Chemistry Technology (DEC-Tec) core facilities available in the lab of Dr. Martin Matzuk and Center for Drug Discovery at Baylor College of Medicine (BCM). The purpose of this opportunity is to allow investigators with validated male contraceptive targets to utilize state-of-the-art screening facilities to identify “hit” molecules that bind to the target of interest.
We are now accepting applications for the MCI-BCM Sponsored Target Screening Award. Please see the application announcement for details, and reach out to us with any questions.
-------------------------
For information about future grant opportunities please reach out to grants@malecontraceptive.org, and be sure to subscribe to our newsletter at the bottom of this page in order to be notified of the latest Male Contraceptive Initiative funding opportunities!
MCI's Trainee & Youth Funding Opportunities
Trainee Fellowships
Male Contraceptive Initiative supports a fellowship program for graduate students and postdoctoral trainees working with senior investigators in the field of male contraceptives. Our 2023 Fellowship cycle is now open and we are accepting applications. Please click the button below for application details or reach out to us at grants@malecontraceptive.org with any questions.
Male Contraceptive Initiative supports a fellowship program for graduate students and postdoctoral trainees working with senior investigators in the field of male contraceptives. Our 2023 Fellowship cycle is now open and we are accepting applications. Please click the button below for application details or reach out to us at grants@malecontraceptive.org with any questions.
-------------------------
Trainee Success Program
MCI supports the career development of graduate and postdoctoral trainees directly through our Success program. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for any activity or need that advances the career of a trainee interested in the field of male contraception. Examples of eligible activities include travel grants, digital conferences, workshops, and other professional development opportunities. Applications are evaluated based on relevance of the proposed activity, applicant strength and available funds. Applicants are encouraged to contact grants@malecontraceptive.org for questions regarding eligibility.
MCI supports the career development of graduate and postdoctoral trainees directly through our Success program. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for any activity or need that advances the career of a trainee interested in the field of male contraception. Examples of eligible activities include travel grants, digital conferences, workshops, and other professional development opportunities. Applications are evaluated based on relevance of the proposed activity, applicant strength and available funds. Applicants are encouraged to contact grants@malecontraceptive.org for questions regarding eligibility.
-------------------------
The Beverly Tucker Award
Beverly Tucker, MPH, MPIA, PMP, is a founding board member of Male Contraceptive Initiative and has an illustrious career in global health spanning decades, as well as continents. She is a champion for male contraception, and passionate about supporting scientists all over the world. The annual Tucker Award was established in 2020 to support professional development in the setting of international health. Male Contraceptive Initiative’s Beverly Tucker Award provides up to $5,000 to support a student or professional residing outside of the United States to travel internationally for the purposes of career development. We are currently accepting applications for the Tucker Award. Please see the application details for more information, or reach out to us with any questions at grants@malecontraceptive.org.
Beverly Tucker, MPH, MPIA, PMP, is a founding board member of Male Contraceptive Initiative and has an illustrious career in global health spanning decades, as well as continents. She is a champion for male contraception, and passionate about supporting scientists all over the world. The annual Tucker Award was established in 2020 to support professional development in the setting of international health. Male Contraceptive Initiative’s Beverly Tucker Award provides up to $5,000 to support a student or professional residing outside of the United States to travel internationally for the purposes of career development. We are currently accepting applications for the Tucker Award. Please see the application details for more information, or reach out to us with any questions at grants@malecontraceptive.org.
-------------------------
MCI's Youth Advisory Board Undergraduate Project Grant
MCI's Youth Advisory Board (YAB) is a group of young people (ages 16-28) providing their perspectives to our work and advocating for male contraception. This request for applications is for undergraduate students interested in working on projects related to new male contraception. Applications for the 2023 grant are now closed, but those interested in learning more are encouraged to contact grants@malecontraceptive.org for questions regarding future opportunities.
MCI's Youth Advisory Board (YAB) is a group of young people (ages 16-28) providing their perspectives to our work and advocating for male contraception. This request for applications is for undergraduate students interested in working on projects related to new male contraception. Applications for the 2023 grant are now closed, but those interested in learning more are encouraged to contact grants@malecontraceptive.org for questions regarding future opportunities.
External Funding Opportunities
Chemical Screening and Optimization Facility (X01 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)
This funding opportunity from NICHD provides investigators access to the Chemical Synthesis and Optimization Facility, with capability in preclinical services including Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) or Investigational New Drug (IND)-enabling studies (e.g., protein generation, X-ray crystallography, high throughput screening, structure activity relationships, hit-to-lead generation, drug metabolism). Applications are due May 30, 2023; January 2, 2024; May 2, 2024; January 2, 2025; May 2, 2025.
This funding opportunity from NICHD provides investigators access to the Chemical Synthesis and Optimization Facility, with capability in preclinical services including Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) or Investigational New Drug (IND)-enabling studies (e.g., protein generation, X-ray crystallography, high throughput screening, structure activity relationships, hit-to-lead generation, drug metabolism). Applications are due May 30, 2023; January 2, 2024; May 2, 2024; January 2, 2025; May 2, 2025.
-------------------------
Biological Testing Facility (X01 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)
This funding opportunity is to provide investigators with a mechanism to request services from the NICHD’s Biological Testing Facility would advance their contraceptive development program. This facility has the capabilities and capacity for preclinical services including Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) or Investigational New Drug (IND)-enabling studies (e.g., protein generation, X-ray crystallography, high throughput screening, structure activity relationships, hit-to-lead generation, drug metabolism). Applications are due May 30, 2023; January 2, 2024; May 2, 2024; January 2, 2025; and May 2, 2025.
This funding opportunity is to provide investigators with a mechanism to request services from the NICHD’s Biological Testing Facility would advance their contraceptive development program. This facility has the capabilities and capacity for preclinical services including Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) or Investigational New Drug (IND)-enabling studies (e.g., protein generation, X-ray crystallography, high throughput screening, structure activity relationships, hit-to-lead generation, drug metabolism). Applications are due May 30, 2023; January 2, 2024; May 2, 2024; January 2, 2025; and May 2, 2025.
-------------------------
Next Generation Multipurpose Prevention Technologies (NGM) (R01 Clinical Trial Optional)
This funding opportunity from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) seeks to support the development of new and innovative on-demand, event-driven, and long-acting (systemic and non-systemic) multipurpose prevention technologies (MPTs). This opportunity is open to technologies, biobehavioral and behavioral/social studies, as well as applications involving pharmacokinetic (PK), pharmacodynamic (PD), safety and, drug-drug interactions (DDI) studies using drug development, and formulation science supported by animal model testing. Funding Opportunity Number: PAR-22-222. Next application is due December 7, 2023.
This funding opportunity from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) seeks to support the development of new and innovative on-demand, event-driven, and long-acting (systemic and non-systemic) multipurpose prevention technologies (MPTs). This opportunity is open to technologies, biobehavioral and behavioral/social studies, as well as applications involving pharmacokinetic (PK), pharmacodynamic (PD), safety and, drug-drug interactions (DDI) studies using drug development, and formulation science supported by animal model testing. Funding Opportunity Number: PAR-22-222. Next application is due December 7, 2023.
-------------------------
Multipurpose Prevention Technology: Novel Systemic Options for Young Adults (R43/R44 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)
This funding opportunity from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) seeks to support the development of new and innovative long-acting systemic and non-systemic multipurpose prevention technologies (MPT). The FOA includes support for the development and/or acceptability of MPTs in adolescent and young women. Funding Opportunity Number: PAR-21-297. Letters of intent are due 30 days prior to application receipt date. Next application is due December 9, 2023.
This funding opportunity from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) seeks to support the development of new and innovative long-acting systemic and non-systemic multipurpose prevention technologies (MPT). The FOA includes support for the development and/or acceptability of MPTs in adolescent and young women. Funding Opportunity Number: PAR-21-297. Letters of intent are due 30 days prior to application receipt date. Next application is due December 9, 2023.
-------------------------
Comprehensive Resources for HIV Microbicides and Biomedical Prevention (CRMP)
This contract seeks to provide support services for HIV prevention drug developers including academic (investigators), for-profit and not-for-profit small and large companies, and other product innovators (henceforth identified as Sponsors) for the development of HIV non-vaccine biomedical prevention (nBP) strategies and products. The types of nBPs supported include, but are not limited to, topical microbicides, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and Multipurpose Prevention Technologies (MPT’s) for the purpose of preventing HIV transmission and acquisition in adolescents, women, men and transgender individuals. Sponsors seeking these services receive no funding from NIAID, but instead receive products or information generated by NIAID-funded contractors on their behalf. Data and reports are provided in a format that supports a regulatory filing. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
This contract seeks to provide support services for HIV prevention drug developers including academic (investigators), for-profit and not-for-profit small and large companies, and other product innovators (henceforth identified as Sponsors) for the development of HIV non-vaccine biomedical prevention (nBP) strategies and products. The types of nBPs supported include, but are not limited to, topical microbicides, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and Multipurpose Prevention Technologies (MPT’s) for the purpose of preventing HIV transmission and acquisition in adolescents, women, men and transgender individuals. Sponsors seeking these services receive no funding from NIAID, but instead receive products or information generated by NIAID-funded contractors on their behalf. Data and reports are provided in a format that supports a regulatory filing. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Contraceptive Funding, Simplified
