DoD Neurofibromatosis Investigator-Initiated Research Award

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The NFRP Investigator-Initiated Research Award mechanism was first offered in FY96. Since then, 436 Investigator-Initiated Research Award applications have been received, and 112 have been recommended for funding. The NFRP Investigator-Initiated Research Award supports highly rigorous, high-impact research projects that have the potential to make an important contribution to NF research and/or patient care. Research projects may focus on any phase of research from basic through translational, including preclinical studies in animal models or human subjects, as well as correlative studies associated with an existing clinical trial. The rationale for a research idea may be derived from laboratory discovery, population-based studies, a clinician’s firsthand knowledge of patients, or anecdotal data. Applications must include preliminary and/or published data that is relevant to NF and the proposed research project. All projects should adhere to a core set of standards for rigorous study design and reporting to maximize the reproducibility and translational potential of preclinical research. The standards are described in Landis, S.C., et al. A call for transparent reporting to optimize the predictive value of preclinical research, Nature 2012, 490:187-191 (www.nature.com/nature/journal/v490/n7419/full/nature11556.html). While these standards are written for preclinical studies, the basic principles of randomization, blinding, sample-size estimation, and data handling derive from well-established best practices in research and should be applied. Projects that include research on animal models are required to submit Attachment 8, Animal Research Plan, as part of the application package to describe how these standards will be addressed. Applicants should consult the ARRIVE (Animal Research: Reporting In Vivo Experiments) guidelines to ensure relevant aspects of rigorous animal research are adequately planned for and, ultimately, reported. The ARRIVE guidelines can be found at http://www.nc3rs.org.uk/page.asp?id=1357. Research involving human subjects and human anatomical substances is permitted; however, clinical trials are not allowed under this funding opportunity. For more information on clinical trials and clinical research overall, a Human Subject Resource Document is provided on the electronic Biomedical Research Application Portal (eBRAP) system at https://ebrap.org/eBRAP/public/Program.htm. PIs wishing to apply for funding for a clinical trial should utilize the FY14 NFRP Clinical Trial Award mechanism (Funding Opportunity Number: W81XWH-14-NFRP-CTA).

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