Overview
The Research Core Award provides funding support to individuals or teams striving to identify, development, characterize and support relevant large animal models of inherited retinal disease (IRD) or dry age-related macular degeneration (dAMD) that are poorly modeled in rodents for which canine models do not currently exist, such as Stargardt disease and Usher syndrome. For translational research it is important to provide access to eyes that more closely resemble the size, structure and histology of the human eye, particularly models with large aqueous and vitreous humor volumes, a cone-rich region, and ciliary processes around the photoreceptors. Applicants must hold a Ph.D., M.D., D.M.D., D.V.M., D.O., O.D., or equivalent degree and have a faculty position or equivalent at a domestic or foreign non-profit organization, or public or private institution, such as a university, college, medical school, hospital, research institute, or laboratory. Funding for this effort will be considered up to $500,000 over three (3) years. Individuals from underrepresented racial, ethnic and gender groups, as well as individuals with disabilities, are always encouraged to apply.
Applying
If you are interested in being considered for an award, submit a Letter of Intent (LOI) and short, no longer than five pages, biosketch (NIH Biosketch is acceptable) as either a Word document or a PDF file, text-accessible, by e-mail to grants@fightingblindness.org. The Foundation will confirm receipt by email.
All prospective award recipients first submit a Letter of Intent and, by invitation only, an application via the Foundation’s online application portal. Application guidelines should be downloaded and reviewed before beginning your application.
Reporting
Research progress and accomplishments are tracked during the funding period through Scientific Progress and Financial reports.
