The NETP Program IIRA supports highly rigorous, multidisciplinary, high-impact research projects that have the potential to make an important contribution to neurotoxin exposure and treatment-related Parkinson’s research. This award mechanism supports the full spectrum of research from basic science through clinical research.
Deadlines:
• Required Pre-Application Submission Deadline: Sep. 8, 2021
• Application Submission Deadline: September 29, 2021
Within the context of the NETP mission and long-term strategic goals, all applications to the FY21 NETP Program Investigator-Initiated Research Award (IIRA) program announcement MUST address at least one of the following FY21 NETP Focus Areas:
• Basic biology and clinical implications of non-motor symptoms that could lead to the development of new treatments for PD. Though not limited to this list, the following are some examples of areas that are encouraged: ○ Cognition (relevant to PD) ○ Psychiatric dysfunction
• Environmental exposures and gene - environment interactions at prodromal or clinically diagnosed PD. Applications with genome-wide genotyping/sequencing of existing cohorts are encouraged (must include data sharing plan).
• Circuitry and synaptic mechanisms of PD, dopamine refractory motor symptoms, and treatment-associated dystonia that could lead to development of new treatments in patients. Though not limited to this list, the following are some examples of approaches that could be used: ○ Translational outcome measures and animal models ○ Human observational studies that may include biomarkers
• Understand disease heterogeneity to enable precision medicine approaches to PD treatments. For studies comparing neurodegenerative effects caused by deployment, environmental, and occupational exposures and other forms of PD, the following are some examples of areas that are encouraged: ○ Data analytics ○ Digital and other biomarkers ○ Clinical subtyping
Independent investigators at or above the level of Assistant Professor (or equivalent) are eligible to be named as the PI. An investigator may be named as a PI on no more than two NETP Program IIRA applications. The NETP Program IIRA requires that the PI dedicate at least 15% of their full-time professional effort to each IIRA during the award period.
The anticipated total costs budgeted for the entire period of performance for an FY21 NETP Program IIRA will not exceed $1.2M. Refer to Section II.D.5, Funding Restrictions, for detailed funding information.
