Writing A Research Grant Proposal

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Abboud J. Ghalayini, Ph.D.

The basics

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Knowledge

Formal training in a specific scientific disciplineUp to date information regarding the latest

applications and trends

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• InspirationAn idea in the form of a question

Outcome of answering the question: increase knowledge base and /or result in new

applications/solutionsFeasibility: is it doable with the available

resources?

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• A PlanA step by step road map designed to answer

the original question (s)A list of specific methods and techniques

needed for implementing the planAn alternative strategy (s) to circumvent

putative problems

Not having a plan is planning for failure

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• ResourcesIdentifying the available physical resources

requiredProjecting the cost of performing the work

Identifying personnel to conduct the work

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The Proposal

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Organization of a grant proposal

1.Specific aims2. Background and significance

3.Preliminary studies4. Experimental design

5. Literature cited 6. Appendix

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1. Specific Aims

This is the most important page of the entire proposal

(it’s the money page)Limit yourself to ONE page

No more than 1-3 aimsShould be VERY specific aims

2. Background and Significance

1. An Introduction of the areaof research

2. Background and literature survey

3. Significance of the proposed studies

4. Summary

5. No more than 4-5 pages

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3. Preliminary Studies

1. A presentation of any pertinent data obtained in the investigator’s lab

2. Displayed in an organized fashion (tables, graphs and other figures)

3. Illustrates the skills and techniques available to the investigator

4. Includes a section of recent publications or manuscripts by the

investigator5. About 4-10 pages

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4. Experimental Design

1. Organized sequentially by specific aims stated

2. A detailed description of proposed experiments including: a) Rationale; b)

Design; c) Anticipated results and d) Alternative strategies

3. Should be planned to methodically address the specific questions stated

under Specific Aims4. About 6-10 pages

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5. Literature Cited

1. Include title of citation, authors, date, journal and page #

2. Check the citations for accuracy

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6. Appendixes1. Include relevant publications/

manuscripts in preparation from your lab

2. Any detailed experimental protocols/methods that are too long to

include in the grant

3. Letters of collaboration

4. Other documentsAJG

The Finishing Touches:Attention to Details

1. A critical reading of the final grant by an expert in the field.

2. A thorough editorial fine-tooth combing of the final grant.

3. Allow yourself plenty of time (3-6 months)

The Finishing touches: cont’d

4. Establish linkage and continuity throughout the proposal (Cross-linking of the 6

sections)

The “ R” words:

1. Rejection

2. Revision

3. Resubmission

Success is dependent on

► A clear and focused proposal►Having a sound plan to implement it

►A methodical approach to accomplish that plan►Adequate resources to implement the plan

►And most of all the flexibility to change that plan as need be

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