NIH–NASA QuSAFE Challenge
The Quantum-Enabled Predictive Preclinical NAMs for Toxicity and Safety (QuSAFE) Challenge, a collaboration between the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and NASA, advances quantum-enabled sensing for in vitro NAMs, such as organoids and microphysiological systems (MPS), to improve drug safety while reducing animal use. In vitro NAMs, such as organoids and microphysiological systems (MPS), can…
The NIH–NASA QuSAFE Challenge brings together the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and NASA to develop quantum-enabled sensing technologies for in vitro NAMs, including organoids and microphysiological systems (MPS). These in vitro NAM models can provide human-relevant data for drug development and safety evaluation. Conventional assays and imaging, however, often produce noisy, invasive, and insufficient results, leading to missed weak, early, and low-abundance biological signals and hindering the monitoring of dynamic processes.
Quantum-enabled sensing methods can offer unparalleled sensitivity, refined signal-to-noise ratios, and nanoscale resolution, overcoming the limitations of today's traditional detection and measurement methods. This challenge directly supports NASA's Biological and Physical Sciences Division, addressing the need for advanced detection methods that go beyond traditional lab environments.
By harnessing recent advances in sensor-development research, the QuSAFE Challenge bolsters NASA's space exploration capabilities while benefiting science both in space and on Earth. Researchers have until December 15, 2026, to submit their entries, with the deadline for submissions set for July 27, 2027. For more information, including registration, rules, and eligibility details, visit https://www.qusafechallenge.com/.
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