September 30, 2021

Alzheimer's and diabetes research pilot and feasibility funding program applications accepted through today

Diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and altered energy metabolism are all known risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRDs). In line with current NIH/National Institute of Aging priorities and in collaboration with the Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer’s Center (VMAC) the Vanderbilt Diabetes Research and Training Center (VDRTC) invites applications for pilot and feasibility awards focused on discovering new ways to understand the relationship of ADRD and diabetes and metabolism in the pathogenesis of ADRD and its prevention or treatment. These awards are aimed at researchers who do not currently have research support relating to ADRD. The intention is to encourage researchers to develop new ideas that will permit them to compete for external funding related to ADRD.

All Vanderbilt investigators, and especially VDRTC members, are encouraged to submit applications. Faculty members at any level, who do not hold an ADRD-related grant, are eligible. Awards can be between $10,000 and $50,000/year (total of one year).

Proposals will be judged based on scientific merit and likelihood for success, including the probability that successful completion of the pilot or feasibility project will lead to new collaborations and extramural funding opportunities. We strongly encourage applicants to collaborate with faculty with experience in the ADRD field, although the primary investigator may not already hold an ADRD-related grant.  Proposals that make use of existing Vanderbilt Core resources are also encouraged.

 Application Requirements

  1. A two-page scientific proposal with specific aims and research strategy, which should emphasize how this new research area is directly related to ADRD research and how the project will lead to future collaborative and extramural funding opportunities. 
  2. Bibliography may be included as a separate page.
  3. NIH biosketches for all participating investigators.
  4. Budget and brief budget justification. 

Submit applications HERE.

Key Dates 

Deadline: Sept. 30, 2021
Award Notification: Oct. 18, 2021
Funding Period: Nov. 1, 2021 – Oct. 31, 2022

Contact Fiona Harrison (fiona.harrison@vumc.org) with any questions about the application process.