This research opportunity is designed specifically for residents and fellows, offering a small amount of funding to seed innovative projects related to hand surgery. The scope of the project is smaller, and the time to funding is faster than the traditional AFSH basic science and clinical research grants.
These grants function similarly to the NIH Small Research Grant Program (R03). The R03 grant mechanism supports small research projects that can be carried out in a short period of time with limited resources. Learn more about the NIH Small Grant Program (R03).
SCOPE:
- Pilot or feasibility studies
- Secondary analysis of existing data
- Small, self-contained research projects
- Development of research methodology
- Development of new research technology
All proposals relating to any hand/upper limb project will be considered if eligibility requirements are met.
Letters of Intent are due July 7, 2025.
Special funding is available for projects submitted for the following special emphasis areas:
- Emerging technology: Investigation of new technology/strategies including AI to improve clinical care and communication
- Healthcare Disparities in Hand Surgery: Studies exploring interventions and solutions to improve care among under-represented and disadvantaged groups.
- Contractures: Investigation of treatment modalities, diagnostic tools and therapies to improve upper extremity contractures across a wide range of etiologies, including perinatal causes (cerebral palsy), post-traumatic, stroke and distinct pathologic entities such as Dupuytren’s
Hand surgery fellows or surgical residents in ACGME or RCPSC accredited programs are eligible to apply. Funding will be limited to one applicant per independent academic department. PI may only submit one Fast Track grant application per calendar year. Award amount is $5,000.