Pilot Award
The Rockefeller University Center for Clinical and Translational Science (RUCCTS) Pilot Award program is a funding initiative designed to support innovative clinical and translational research projects. Funded in part by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) program, this program aims to advance scientific discovery and its application to improve human health.
Goals
The program seeks to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, accelerate the translation of scientific discoveries into clinical applications, and promote workforce development in translational research. It also emphasizes community engagement to address health disparities. This initiative is integral to Rockefeller University’s mission of bridging basic science with clinical applications to improve global health outcomes.
Key Features of the Program
- Funding Scope: Awards are capped at $25,000 per project, with approximately eight awards distributed annually. Projects must be completed within one year, although a second year of funding may be available based on progress and competitive review.
- Eligibility: The program supports:
- New and innovative clinical and translational studies.
- Collaborative projects between basic scientists and clinical researchers.
- Community-engaged research initiatives.
- Development of new methodologies, technologies, or tools to enhance translational science.
- Focus Areas:
- Early-stage development of therapies, technologies, or procedures addressing translational challenges.
- Secondary analysis of existing datasets, such as the National COVID Cohort Collaborative (N3C).
- Projects emphasizing health equity and community involvement.
- Review Process: Proposals are evaluated based on scientific merit, translational impact, and potential public health benefits. Special consideration is given to projects involving human participants at Rockefeller University Hospital.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a detailed proposal outlining the project’s significance, methodology, and potential impact. Trainees must include a letter of support from their mentor, explaining how the project aligns with their career development goals. For community-engaged projects, a letter of commitment from the partnering institution is required.