Liver Center Pilot/Feasibility Program
Funding for
Pilot and Feasibility Projects
2006-2007
Letters of intent due February 13, 2006
Click here for announcement (PDF)
Purpose of the Program
The Pilot/Feasibility Program provides funding on a competitive basis for investigation of novel ideas in liver research. It enables investigators to generate the preliminary data needed for an application for regular funding from extramural agencies. It is also a mechanism for expanding Center membership.
Eligibility
New investigators are encouraged to apply, as are established investigators (with independent funding) who are not current members of the Liver Center but who propose liver-related research. The expectation is that such individuals, if funded, would move toward full membership in the Liver Center. Established Center Members may also apply (see Guidelines).
Guidelines for Pilot/Feasibility Support
Applications considered for funding ordinarily will satisfy one of the following conditions.
- The proposal is from an investigator new to liver research.
- The project represents a major new departure from the program of a Liver Center member or associate member, for which no funds are available from the investigator's independent support.
Purposes For Which Funds May Be Used
Funds may be used for technical support and supplies. Major equipment is not funded unless the justification is compelling. Investigators' salaries and travel are not funded.
Maximum Award
The Liver Center awards funding for four projects per year, with a maximum award of $25,000. The period of funding is one or two years; in the latter case, funding for a second year would require competitive review of a full application, and will be based on demonstrated progress.
Application Procedure
For information regarding the application format and procedure, contact the Liver Center Administrative Office at 476-2777.
Each year an announcement is posted and circulated to various departments and other entities at the four UCSF campuses. Brief (half page) letters of intent are requested in which the essence of the project and its justification for pilot/feasibility support (see above) are cited. Individuals will be notified whether they are invited to submit a full application, due about six weeks later. Detailed instructions for preparation of the application are provided at that time.
Evaluation of Application
The Liver Center Executive Committee reviews original and revised applications, and prioritizes them, obtaining reviews from outside the Center as necessary. Applications deemed eligible and scientifically meritorious are returned to the investigator for revision as needed, and re-submission to the Executive Committee. Approved applications are forwarded to the Advisory Board, which will evaluate them and make final prioritization and funding decisions. Funds are usually made available by June 1 at the latest.
Responsibilities of Awardees
A written progress report is required on or about March 1 of the funding period for review by the Executive Committee and Advisory Board;
Awardees are expected to present an oral report at the annual retreat (usually in March);
Liver Center support must be acknowledged on all publications of the research, and all such publications and grant applications or grant support resulting from the P/F award must be reported to the Liver Center Editorial Office (Box 0630, UCSF);
The principal investigator will become a member or associate member of the Center (if not already).
