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The New Initiatives funding program supports high-quality scientific projects of a primarily basic science nature, specifically aimed at obtaining preliminary results to facilitate the investigators' applications for extramural support. One-year awards of up to $40,000 are available for projects identified through competitive peer review as being catalysts for exciting new research initiatives; in some cases, funding for a second year may be considered. All projects must involve a PI with a primary instructional or research track appointment in the Medical School. It is expected that proposals will provide a clear statement detailing plans for submission of an application for external support submitted by the end of the first year of funding. The deadline for 2003 is Monday, February 17th.

GUIDELINES

Purpose: To serve as a catalyst for new research initiatives by supporting projects specifically aimed at obtaining sufficient preliminary results to facilitate the applicants' applications for extramural support. Two types of proposals will be considered: proposals from junior faculty (at the Assistant Professor or Assistant Research Scientist level); and proposals from established investigators who are pursuing research extending into a new direction.

Eligibility: All full-time, on-campus instructional and research faculty with primary appointments at the Medical School are eligible to apply. Applications from the following are not accepted: postdoctoral fellows, projects to be performed while the PI is on sabbatical; visiting professors; faculty without evidence of investigative independence; and faculty whose work will not continue at the University.

Funding Threshold: One-year awards of up to $40,000 are available. In some cases, funding for a second year may be considered if strong evidence of progress and absolute need are apparent.

Project Specifications:

• All funded investigators are expected to apply for external support for the project by the end of the first year of New Initiative funding. Applicants should provide a clear indication of the sources and deadlines of planned external grant proposals.
• Projects previously denied funding through other mechanisms are unlikely to be considered.
• Budgets may not include faculty salary support or salaries not directly related to the proposed research. Budgets may also not include cost overruns or retroactive funding; publications, grant preparation costs, or travel; major renovations; or office equipment.
• The proposal narrative will not exceed 5 pages.
• Junior faculty will need to include confirmation from the department chair that their proposed budget needs do not overlap with start-up expenses considered to be the obligation of their department.

25 copies of the proposal should be submitted to the Office of Research and Graduate Studies, 4107 Medical Science I C Wing / 0624. Applications are available by download here or by contacting Camille Mrozowski, cmrozow@umich.edu.

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