NIH–NASA QuSAFE Challenge

The NIH-NASA Quantum-Enabled Predictive Preclinical NAMs for Toxicity and Safety (QuSAFE) Challenge is a collaborative effort between the National Institutes of Health and NASA. This initiative aims to advance quantum-enabled sensing technology to improve drug safety evaluation and reduce reliance on animal testing. In vitro NAMs, such as organoids and microphysiological systems, can provide valuable human-relevant data for drug development and safety assessments.

However, conventional assays and imaging methods often suffer from noise, invasiveness, and lack sensitivity, leading to missed weak, early, and low-abundance biological signals. Quantum-enabled sensing approaches can overcome these limitations by offering ultra-high sensitivity, improved signal-to-noise performance, and nanoscale resolution.

This challenge directly supports NASA's Biological and Physical Sciences Division, addressing the need for advanced detection methods that go beyond traditional laboratory settings. By leveraging recent advances in sensor development, the QuSAFE Challenge enhances NASA's space exploration capabilities and benefits scientific research both in space and on Earth.

The challenge offers up to $7.1 million in prizes for successful submissions. Submissions opened on December 15, 2026, and will close on July 27, 2027. For more information, including registration details, rules, and eligibility, visit https://www.qusafechallenge.com/.