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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