The International Progressive MS Alliance has released a Request for Applications (RFA) as the first stage of funding for a research pipeline to test innovative outcomes or treatments focused on the well-being of people living with progressive MS. Proposals should be focused on at least one of the four symptom areas of fatigue, mobility including upper extremity impairment, pain, and/or cognitive impairment.
The RFA is the first stage of a research pipeline in which successful awards will demonstrate a strong expert team that offers the potential for novel therapeutic interventions or outcomes for progressive MS and has the potential to culminate with a large randomized controlled study (Stage 2) and implementation (Stage 3) for adoption into the larger healthcare system. Stage 1 is a planning grant of up to €100,000 that provides time and resources to develop ideas, collect preliminary data (if needed), and construct a research team to develop and present an efficacy research proposal.
The deadline for full submission is 15 May, 2023.
Proposed networks must have an organizational structure to foster and conduct integrated research activities and promote data sharing and knowledge exchange in the key areas outlined in this RFA. Eligible personnel and organizations include: (1) public research institutions, (2) non-profit research organizations, (3) commercial organizations with a medical research focus and mission.
Investigators leading the network must have demonstrated track records of directing outstanding research programs. At least 50% effort of the partnership is required to be performed in an academic or not-for-profit research organization