What is Eve’s Ark?
Eve’s Ark is a global backup system for women’s health research. It protects irreplaceable work (from frozen embryos to breakthrough datasets) through a combination of physical biorepository storage and a digital, AI-powered archive. The initiative builds on the ARPA-H Women’s Health Sprint, whose submissions form the foundation of the archive.
Why now?
Due to recent policy shifts, research with terms like “female” or “women” is being flagged or blocked in grant applications. Projects are being terminated. Without action, we’re facing what researchers call an “extinction-level event” for the field.
How does it work?
Eve’s Ark operates in two phases:
Backup: Preserve physical samples, digitize data, and archive researcher profiles.
Reboot: Reconnect preserved work with future funders, collaborators, and innovation paths.
Who is behind this?
Eve’s Ark was created by a coalition of researchers, technologists, and philanthropists. It’s run by a dedicated 501(c)(3) nonprofit, inspired by the success of Backup Ukraine — and supported by an initial $50,000 donation to catalyze action.
What is Eve?
Eve is the interactive interface to the archive — a conversational AI that helps users surface research, find collaborators, and connect with funding opportunities. She’s designed to embody the collective intelligence of women in science.
How can I contribute?
Researchers can upload their work for safekeeping. Institutions and partners can offer support in storage, outreach, technology, or funding. Every helping hand counts.