Anesthesiology

Goal:  The primary goal of the Vanderbilt Anesthesiology Innovation Grant Program is to promote investigator initiated research for early stage projects that will lead to publication and, ideally, to extramural funding.

Innovation grants will fund:

1. Clinical and translational research that has a high probability of improving patient care and leading to publication in top tier journals.
    
2. High risk and highly innovative basic science unlikely to be funded by conventional mechanisms and that has a high probability of eventually leading to significant extramural funding. 

Overview:  Faculty, staff, and trainees of the Vanderbilt Department of Anesthesiology may apply for funds to support new and innovative research initiatives in perioperative medicine. The result of the proposed work is expected to lead to publication and, ideally, a competitive application for extramural funding.

This is a revolving application program with applications reviewed and awarded semiannually.  Applications are reviewed by the Anesthesiology Research Executive Committee which makes funding recommendations to the Chair. Projects will be evaluated on the basis of likelihood for completion, publication impact, and potential for extramural funding.  Applicants need not have a history of research productivity, but junior applicants must demonstrate committed mentorship from successful investigators.

This program is funded by the Department from institutional development funds, profits from industry-sponsored research, technology transfer and licensing income, and philanthropic donations.  

Budget Restrictions: Proposals should include a maximum request of $50,000.  Proposals may include requests for supplies, equipment, data analysis, and support services.  Applications may also include requests for effort support of research mentors or critical collaborators/consultants.

Application Process:  Applications are to be submitted to the Chair’s office by May 1 or November 1.  Funding for successful applications will be available on July 1 and January 1, respectively.  Requests under $5,000 can be submitted at any time and will be reviewed by the Research Executive Committee on a continual basis.

• The Anesthesiology Innovation Grant Submission Form must be completed and signed by the Principal Investigator.  Download an Innovation Grant Application here. (Word document)
• Forms should be emailed to Clinical Trials Manager Damon Michaels at damon.michaels@vanderbilt.edu. Applications need to be received at least 2 weeks prior to the next meeting.
• You will receive an acknowledgment of your submission within one week.
• Once the committee meets to discuss your application, you will receive a letter of response within 2 weeks.
• If the committee requests further clarification on your application, you will have 10 business days to respond.
• Once your response is received by the committee, you will get a letter of acknowledgment within one week. 
• You will be notified about the committee’s decision within 2 weeks.

PI responsibilities once they receive funding:  Successful applicants will be asked to submit a quarterly report to the AREC committee.  This report should include the following information:
1.    Report date
2.    Project title
3.    Reporting period
4.    Principal Investigator
5.    Telephone number
6.    Contract expenditures to date (as applicable):
7.    Comments on administrative and logistical matters.
8.    Description of scientific progress for the quarter in terms of the tasks or objectives.  Explain deviations where this isn't possible.  Include data where possible.
9.    Present a brief statement of plans or milestones for the next quarter.

For any questions regarding the Vanderbilt Anesthesiology Innovation Grant process, contact Clinical Trials Manager Damon Michaels at damon.michaels@vanderbilt.edu.