The Center for Motor Neuron Disease (CMND) has openings for Seed Funds and Pilot Awards to support the generation of exploratory data in neuronal development and/or neurodegeneration, with an emphasis on motor neurons. These high-risk, high-reward exploratory proposals can be transformative, leading to federal funding and breakthroughs in the field of ALS and neuronal development.

This award program will provide $50,000 per year with the option for an additional year of funding based on performance.

The mission of the Center for Motor Neuron Disease (CMND) is to provide knowledge on the advancement of and the understanding of ALS and neurogenerative disease. Furthermore, the CMND supports biomedical breakthroughs that are fueled by unique collaborations from the diverse expertise of scientists and places a strong emphasis on training the next generation of investigators.

If awarded, funds can be used to provide salary support for a trainee (graduate student or postdoc); consumables for research; and/or travels to conferences and meetings that support the trainee's experience in the field of ALS and neurodegeneration.

The PI and their trainee will be expected to provide a progress report including a financial report of expenses 9 months after receiving the initial funds. Based on the progress made in the first year, an additional $25-50,000 may be award in the second year to continue the research. Awardees must present their data and results on the awarded project at the annual CMND Symposium in the Spring of each year. 

To be considered:

• Principal Investigators and trainees must submit their CV and 3-page proposal proposals (no more than 1,500 words) Proposals must include research in areas of neuronal development and/or neurodegeneration associated with motor neuron disease.
• Must include an additional 500-word statement from a graduate student or postdoctoral trainee explaining how this research can benefit their career goals.
• Must include a 200-word statement on how this proposal can benefit the mission of the CMND.
• Future directions on how pilot data will be used for future grant applications or research directions (200 words).
• One optional figure can be included.

Deadline:

Please submit award proposals to neuroscience@uchicago.edu by September 13, 2024.

Click here to learn more about the recipients of the CMND Pilot Awards in 2023