Faculty Can Apply for Genomic and Computational Biology Pilot Research Awards

Pilot projects

Deadline: December 1, 2017

The Duke Center for Genomic and Computational Biology (GCB) invites applications for new interdisciplinary research projects in the areas of genomics, computational biology, synthetic biology, the microbiome, translational genomics, and related fields. The Center is most interested in proposals that suggest an exciting new direction for research across these areas, and expects these proposals will establish new collaborations between researchers within GCB and across the Duke community. Priority will be given to the most innovative, integrative, bold, and forward-looking applications.

The focus of these proposals should be on multi-PI team-oriented research projects that involve at least one GCB tenure-track faculty member. Co-PIs do not necessarily have to be GCB members, but they must be a Duke faculty member or clinician. Although preference will be given to proposals involving researchers not currently collaborating, consideration will also be given to proposals that establish new initiatives among current collaborators.

Research Objectives

Funding for these exploratory projects is intended to further the collaborative nature between GCB faculty and also across Duke campus. While the scientific scope of these applications will naturally range from computational to wet-lab, the theme of bridging disciplines is integral. The goal of these projects is to provide initial support for research that will result in peer-reviewed publications and successful multi-PI or program project grant applications.

Eligibility

To be eligible for consideration, the PI of a proposal must be a tenure-track faculty member currently affiliated with the Center. Applications must include as co-PIs at least one additional faculty member at Duke. Additional collaborators from GCB Shared Resources are allowed.

Funding and Duration

The Center funds two to four projects during the calendar year, with budgets up to $50,000. Awards are made for one year, January 1, 2018 – December 31, 2018. We will expect a project report to the GCB community at six months, and at the end of the year, it is expected the PIs will present their research to the GCB membership, provide a one-page summary of research and plans for obtaining additional external funding.

Preparation and Submission

Please submit a brief (no more than two pages) narrative, being sure to include a project description, goals, and target funding agencies. An additional one-page budget and justification should also be submitted. Please submit proposals in PDF form by email to Floyd Borden. Proposals are due by 5:00 P.M. EST on December 1, 2017. Notification of funding decisions will be made no later than December 22, 2017. Learn more.