Research Opportunity: DNA-Protein Epigenetic Chemistry Engineering (D-PECHE)

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is soliciting innovative proposal abstracts for proof-of-concept research into novel mechanisms for writing and erasing epigenetic base modifications in DNA, with abstracts due June 24, 2026. Amendment 1 clarifies submission instructions and deadlines for the DNA-Protein Epigenetic Chemistry Engineering (D-PECHE) opportunity released under DARPA's Biological Technologies BAA (HR001126S0003). No set-aside applies.

Proposers must submit 2-page maximum abstracts by May 27, 2026 at 4:00 PM Eastern Time; questions may be submitted until May 20, 2026 to D-PECHE@darpa.mil. Work involves demonstrating novel enzymatic pathways and technologies to modify nucleic acids in vitro, requiring expertise in nucleic acid chemistry, protein engineering, and synthetic biology. The program runs for 4 months with monthly technical evaluations, milestone-driven work plans with clear metrics, and deliverables including a kickoff meeting, monthly status reports, and a final comprehensive report. Selected proposers will be invited to submit Oral Proposal Packages approximately 4 weeks after notification, comprising a 20-slide presentation, Task Description Document, cost proposal, and required federal forms. DARPA anticipates multiple awards as Other Transactions for Research (OT-R) agreements within 30 days of selection notification. Proposed costs may not exceed $2,000,000 under the accelerated award option. All work must remain unclassified fundamental research. DARPA will require unlimited rights to all data generated. Evaluation criteria include scientific and technical merit, relevance to DARPA mission, and cost and schedule realism. Submissions must be made through the Broad Agency Announcement Tool (BAAT); late abstracts will not be evaluated.