In an effort to encourage scientists to submit grant applications for highly innovative--but also highly risky--research studies, the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) issued a call last March for "high risk/high impact" proposals. Now, NIGMS has awarded $2 million to support 20 grants from the first round of applications.
"These awards will provide an avenue for scientists to pursue innovative hypotheses that, if confirmed, would have a substantial impact on current thinking or approaches," said Marvin Cassman, Ph.D., director of NIGMS.
Four of the newly awarded grants are described below. The principal investigator's name and institution are in parentheses.
NIGMS received 102 applications in the first round--an enthusiastic response for a new initiative. "While some of these first applications were not appropriate for the program, others were "right-on," according to James Anderson, Ph.D., the NIGMS program director who spearheaded the initiative. "We expect that as word spreads about what we're looking for, more and more people will find it in their interest to apply," he said.
The program supports research that is both "high impact" and "high risk"--high impact because it has the potential for ground-breaking, precedent-setting significance, and high risk because it either lacks sufficient preliminary data to ensure its feasibility, or involves using a new model system or technique.
The research must fall within the confines of NIGMS' mission, which is broad-based, fundamental research in areas such as cell biology, biophysics, genetics, developmental biology, pharmacology, biochemistry, bioengineering, anesthesiology, trauma, and burn injury.
The grants are awarded for up to two years and up to $70,000 per year in direct costs. They are non-renewable, but may be incorporated into a subsequent application for a regular research grant. Application deadlines are February 1, June 1, and October 1.
For further information, see http://www.nih.gov/nigms/funding/pa/r21.html . A complete list of grants awarded under the new initiative is attached.
To arrange an interview with Dr. Cassman or Dr. Anderson, call the NIGMS Public Information Office at (301) 496-7301.