Translational Pilot Program

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Mission

The goal of the Translational Pilot Program is to develop novel technologies and methodologies, to test the feasibility of novel approaches and to stimulate inter-disciplinary collaborations that test generalizable solutions to translational research problems. 

The Translational Pilot Program will solicit, review, and award pilot grants designed to produce and test novel tools and methods to bridge translational gaps and overcome barriers inhibiting the pace of research translation.

Notice

Please note that hypothesis-testing research studies that aim to test a single strategy or technique will not be considered responsive to these RFAs.

Ignition Funds ($5K)

Ignition Funds will be issued once per month as small, rapid-access awards designed to help investigative teams maintain momentum on feasibility projects with high probability of traversing a translational gap and/or to obtain pilot data that will allow for the submission of a subsequent, larger extramural grant application. The Ignition Fund applications can be a specific research focus. Learn more.

Open RFAs ($40K)

Open RFAs will support the development of novel technologies and methodologies, test the feasibility of novel approaches, and stimulate interdisciplinary collaborations that test generalizable solutions to translational research problems identified by faculty and other stakeholders. This approach provides a mechanism for fostering creativity among the research community. Please note that hypothesis-testing research studies that aim to test a single strategy or technique will not be considered responsive to this RFA. 

Targeted RFAs ($40K)

Targeted RFAs are designed to 'pull' pilot proposals from the Wake Forest community that address high-priority gaps and barriers. The goal of these projects is to develop novel technologies and methodologies, to test the feasibility of novel approaches and to stimulate inter-disciplinary collaborations that test generalizable solutions to translational research problems with a focus on specific areas. The specific areas are defined at each pilot release. Please note that hypothesis-testing research studies that aim to test a single strategy or technique will not be considered responsive to this RFA.

Program Leadership

Sabina Gesell, PhD
Program Leader

Kristen Hairston, MD
Associate Program Leader

Michael Seeds, PhD
Scientific Review Officer