DoD VRP, Investigator-Initiated Research Award
ID: 354236Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

Dept. of the Army -- USAMRAA (DOD-AMRAA)

Eligible Applicants

Unrestricted

Funding Category

Science and Technology and other Research and Development

Funding Instrument

Grant

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of the Army, through the US Army Medical Research and Development Command (USAMRAA), is offering the FY24 Vision Research Program (VRP) Investigator-Initiated Research Award (IIRA) to support innovative research aimed at improving the care of eye injuries and visual dysfunction related to military exposure. This grant program is designed to fund studies that can lead to significant advancements in understanding and treating eye injuries, with two funding levels available: Level 1 for exploratory research up to $260,000 without the need for preliminary data, and Level 2 for more mature research projects with a budget cap of $750,000, requiring preliminary data and allowing for a Partnering Principal Investigator option. The total estimated program funding is $832,000, with an expected seven awards to be made, and applications must be submitted in a two-step process, with pre-applications due by July 11, 2024, and full applications by November 8, 2024. For further inquiries, applicants can contact the CDMRP Help Desk at help@eBRAP.org or call 301-682-5507.

    Point(s) of Contact
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    Title
    Posted
    The Department of Defense's FY24 Vision Research Program (VRP) announces the Investigator-Initiated Research Award (IIRA) aimed at enhancing the care of eye injuries among military personnel and veterans. The program, with a total FY24 budget of $20 million, supports innovative research addressing eye dysfunction resulting from military exposure. Applications are to be submitted in a two-step process, first as a pre-application by July 11, 2024, followed by full applications due by November 8, 2024. The grant caters to two funding levels: Level 1 for exploratory research, permitting up to $260,000 without needing preliminary data, and Level 2 for more mature research with a budget cap of $750,000, requiring preliminary data and allowing for a Partnering PI Option. Focus areas include understanding and treating eye injuries, methods for diagnosis in challenging environments, and restoring visual function. Eligibility extends to both extramural and intramural organizations, among which independent investigative personnel may apply. The review process involves both scientific merit assessment and programmatic evaluations to ensure alignment with military health needs. The anticipated funding outcomes aim to improve visual health for service members, while establishing a framework for high-quality research and effective response to traumatic eye injuries.
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