Pilot Projects Program

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The Pilot Project Program (PPP) is crucial to the development and support of clinical and translational research for the West Virginia Clinical and Translational Science Institute (WVCTSI). The PPP provides the infrastructure to set early-stage investigators (ESIs) on the path that will provide meaningful research to positively impact West Virginians, in rapidly advancing and changing health-related fields. While qualified researchers exist within the state, the PPP provides a platform to match expertise within and across WVCTSI partner institutions. To accomplish its goals, the PPP will (1) provide innovative funding mechanisms to facilitate clinical and translational research, (2) work to improve the quality and impact of clinical and translational research in the state, and (3) stimulate ESI development. Toward these goals, the PPP will provide several funding mechanisms to enhance clinical and translational research with the Open Grant serving as a primary mechanism for supporting investigator-initiated research. Two new PPP funding opportunities will establish team science-based initiatives (Bench-to-Bedside Grants) and create a new career development initiative through the Fellows Grant program. The new Rapid Response Grant will allow for flexibility in targeting emerging health issues within the state and getting funding to meritorious projects in a shortened time frame. Promoting the development and commercialization of new medically-related technology is the focus of the novel Launch Grant program, with the Jumpstart Grant providing funding to complete a manuscript or obtain key preliminary data for an extramural grant application. Applications for PPP funding mechanisms will receive priority if they are focused on WVCTSI health priority areas, are led by an ESI and/or a clinician, are from a partner site, or use the Practice-Based Research Network. Incentives will be provided for applications that provide a medical student research experience. We will also provide an A1 mechanism whereby investigators with promising projects that fall short of the funding line will be provided mentoring and the opportunity to resubmit an improved proposal. In addition, improving the success rate of pilot projects submitted by partner institution investigators is a priority. Indeed, the trust and camaraderie developed among WVCTSI partner institutions will facilitate implementation of impactful WV science through the PPP. The PPP will work synergistically with other WVCTSI Cores to mentor and train network investigators in clinical and translational research to improve the quality and impact of clinical and translational research in West Virginia and increase the success of WVCTSI investigators in securing extramural funding.