From owner-sci-resources@net.bio.net Sun May 04 23:00:00 1997 Path: biosci!biosci!not-for-mail From: BIOSCI Administrator Newsgroups: bionet.sci-resources Subject: NSF - Summary of new documents on STIS, 3 May 1997 Date: 5 May 1997 15:32:37 -0700 Organization: BIOSCI International Newsgroups for Molecular Biology Lines: 123 Sender: daemon@net.bio.net Approved: biosci-help@net.bio.net Distribution: world Message-ID: <5kln65$3p9@net.bio.net> NNTP-Posting-Host: net.bio.net This message contains a summary of the documents added to the NSF STIS system for the week ending May 3, 1997. Reference material concerning STIS follows the summary. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ** NEW DOCUMENTS ON STIS ** Document Type: International Document Title: NSF/Tokyo Report: An Overview of Engineering Education in Japan File size (bytes): 13614 STIS Filename: int9712.txt Title: NSF/Tokyo Report: The Prospects for Interdisciplinary Studies File size (bytes): 12787 STIS Filename: int9713.txt Title: NSF/Tokyo Report: Research Report: The Ecological Roles of Soft File size (bytes): 14822 STIS Filename: int9714.txt Title: NSF/Tokyo Report: An Overview of Hazard and Disaster Research File size (bytes): 11531 STIS Filename: int9715.txt Document Type: Letter Title: Dear Colleague Letter search for ENG Program Directors File size (bytes): 4941 STIS Filename: eng973.txt Document Type: Press Release Title: Study of "MIRROR IMAGE" Molecule Supports New Approach for DRUG DESIGN File size (bytes): 4236 STIS Filename: pr9731.txt Title: NSF Recognizes 1997 National Medal of Science Winners File size (bytes): 9223 STIS Filename: pr9732.txt Title: Release and Statement on Loss of Antarctic Employee File size (bytes): 2967 STIS Filename: pr9733.txt Document Type: Program Guideline Title: NSF 96-113 - Instrumentation Grants for Research in Computer and Information Science and Engineering File size (bytes): 13962 STIS Filename: nsf96113.txt Title: NSF 97-64 Small Business Innovation Research Program File size (bytes): 249360 STIS Filename: nsf9764.txt Title: Professional Opportunities for Women in Research and Education POWRE NSF 97-91 File size (bytes): 28479 STIS Filename: nsf9791.txt ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ** UPDATES TO EXISTING STIS DOCUMENTS ** Document Type: Letter Title: REULIST -- Current List of REU Sites File size (bytes): 100216 STIS Filename: reulist.txt Document Type: Program Guideline Title: NSF 97-2--CHEMISTRY RESEARCH INSTRUMENTATION AND FACILITIES File size (bytes): 42384 STIS Filename: nsf972.txt Title: NSF 97-57 -- 1997 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics & Engineering Mentoring File size (bytes): 12455 STIS Filename: nsf9757.txt ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ** FOR YOUR REFERENCE (updated 8/23/96) ** ------------------------------------------------------------------------ HOW TO OBTAIN DOCUMENTS We are currently migrating to a completely Web-based information dissemination system. Please visit our Web site at the following URL: http://www.nsf.gov/ The above files refer to the STIS system, which is being replaced. If you are familiar with STIS, you can use the information above to retrieve these files: Documents via E-mail: Send a message to stisserve@nsf.gov Use the "STIS Filename" shown above in the "get" command. For example, to retrieve nsf9757.txt, the text of your message should be as follows: get nsf9757.txt Anonymous FTP: FTP to stis.nsf.gov. Use the "STIS Filename" shown above to retrieve a file. For example, to retrieve nsf9757.txt, you would enter: ftp> get nsf9757.txt If you want a *printed* copy of a document: Send your name and postal mailing address, and the document title and number to "pubs@nsf.gov". If you have problems with the above procedures: Send a message to "stis@nsf.gov". From owner-sci-resources@net.bio.net Wed May 07 23:00:00 1997 Path: biosci!biosci!not-for-mail From: BIOSCI Administrator Newsgroups: bionet.sci-resources Subject: NIH GUIDE - RFA DK-97-001 - V26(14) 05/02/97 Date: 8 May 1997 14:04:09 -0700 Organization: BIOSCI International Newsgroups for Molecular Biology Lines: 422 Sender: daemon@net.bio.net Approved: biosci-help@net.bio.net Distribution: world Message-ID: <5ktf49$18d@net.bio.net> NNTP-Posting-Host: net.bio.net KIDNEY RESEARCH CENTERS NIH GUIDE, Volume 26, Number 14, May 2, 1997 RFA: DK-97-001 P.T. 04; K.W. 0715133, 0710030 National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Letter of Intent Receipt Date: August 25, 1997 Application Receipt Date: September 24, 1997 PURPOSE This Request for Applications (RFA) invites investigators to submit research grant applications for the George M. O'Brien Research Centers Program. The emphases for this program are to: (1) attract new scientific expertise into the study of the basic mechanisms of kidney diseases and disorders; and (2) encourage multidisciplinary research focused on the causes of these diseases. In approaching the study of these disease processes, it is anticipated that extensive collaboration will be required between individuals in the clinical and basic sciences, including for example investigators with training and expertise in cell biology, molecular biology, immunology, genetics, epidemiology, biochemistry, physiology, and pathology. It is the express intent of this RFA to attract new investigators not currently active in this field and to explore new basic areas that may have clinical research applications. Individual institutions with both basic and clinical research capabilities are eligible to apply. Inter-institutional collaborative research arrangements are also appropriate and encouraged. Coordination for such arrangements must be evident and clearly meaningful and appropriate for the research proposed. HEALTHY PEOPLE 2000 The Public Health Service (PHS) is committed to achieving the health promotion and disease prevention objectives of "Healthy People 2000," a PHS-led national activity for setting priority areas. This RFA, Kidney Research Centers, is related to the priority area of chronic debilitating diseases. Potential applicants may obtain a copy of "Healthy People 2000" (Full Report: Stock No. 017-001-00474-0 or Summary Report: Stock No. 017-001-00473-1) through the Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402-9325 (telephone: 202/512-1800). ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Applications may be submitted by domestic for-profit and non-profit organizations, public and private, such as universities, colleges, hospitals, laboratories, units of State and local governments, and eligible agencies of the Federal government. Racial/ethnic minority individuals, women, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply as Principal Investigators. Foreign institutions are not eligible to apply. MECHANISM OF SUPPORT Support of this program will be through the NIH specialized center (P50) award. Responsibility for the planning, direction, and execution of the proposed project will be solely that of the applicant. Awards will be administered under PHS grants policy as stated in the PHS Grants Policy Statement. This RFA is a one-time solicitation. The total requested project period for applications submitted in response to this RFA may not exceed five years. Applicants from institutions that have a General Clinical Research Center (GCRC) funded by the NIH National Center for Research Resources may wish to identify the GCRC as a resource for conducting the proposed research. If so, a letter of agreement from either the GCRC program director or principal investigator should be included with the application. FUNDS AVAILABLE The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) expects to award up to three center grants (P50) for research into kidney disorders in fiscal year 1998. The anticipated awards are for five years and are contingent upon the availability of appropriated funds. The total amount of available funds to support this program is anticipated to be no more than $2.15 million per year. No applicant may request more than $750,000 in total costs (including both direct and indirect costs) in the initial budget period. A standard escalation factor may be used for subsequent budget periods. Two competing continuation applications are anticipated in response to this RFA. The budget for the first year of a competing continuation application may be increased by 10% above the direct cost budget of the last issued noncompetitive (Type 5) award. In all cases, budgets are not to exceed the $750,000 total cost cap. RESEARCH OBJECTIVES Kidney diseases and disorders place a substantial burden on individuals and on society in the United States. They threaten the health, well-being, and longevity of millions of Americans. Chronic renal failure, for example, accounted for an estimated $3.7 billion of direct hospital and physician costs in 1990. Although considerable progress has been made in understanding the basic physiology and pathophysiology of the normal renal systems, there has been only limited progress in unraveling the mechanisms of those processes that lead to progressive deterioration in the function of these systems. Nevertheless, major progress has been made in the management of their clinical consequences. For example, renal dialysis and transplantation are life saving procedures. Unfortunately, these scientific and medical advances have not led to the means to prevent or reverse the consequences of these diseases and disorders; moreover, their incidence is steadily increasing. The proposed multidisciplinary research centers should help to provide an environment for investigators to apply the necessary and appropriate expertise to topical areas of research, related to the pathogenesis of kidney diseases such as: immunologically mediated diseases, diabetes mellitus and other endocrine and metabolic disorders, primary renal hypertension, genetic abnormalities, and nephrotoxins and toxic cell injury. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS Successful applicants are expected to attend a yearly meeting of Center Directors convened by the NIDDK. Funds to support travel to this meeting may be requested in the budget proposed for the center. INCLUSION OF WOMEN AND MINORITIES IN RESEARCH INVOLVING HUMAN SUBJECTS It is the policy of the NIH that women and members of minority groups and their sub-populations must be included in all NIH supported biomedical and behavioral research projects involving human subjects, unless a clear and compelling rationale and justification is provided that inclusion is inappropriate with respect to the health of the subjects or the purpose of the research. This policy results from the NIH Revitalization Act of 1993 (Section 492B of Public Law 103-43). All investigators proposing research involving human subjects should read the "NIH Guidelines For Inclusion of Women and Minorities as Subjects in Clinical Research," which have been published in the Federal Register of March 20, 1994 (FR 59 14508-14513), and in the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts Vol. 23, No. 11, March 18, 1994. LETTER OF INTENT Prospective applicants are asked to submit, by August 25, 1997, a letter of intent that includes a descriptive title of the proposed research; the name, address, and telephone number of the Principal Investigator; the identities of other key personnel and participating institutions; and the number and title of the RFA in response to which the application may be submitted. Although a letter of intent is not required, is not binding, and does not enter into the review of a subsequent application, the information that it contains allows NIDDK staff to estimate the potential review workload and avoid conflict of interest in the review. The letter of intent is to be sent to: Chief, Review Branch Division of Extramural Activities National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases 45 Center Drive, Room 6AS-37F - MSC 6600 Bethesda, MD 20892-6600 Telephone: (301) 594-8885 FAX: (301) 480-3505 APPLICATION PROCEDURES The research grant application form PHS 398 (rev. 5/95) is to be used in applying for these grants. Applications kits are available at most institutional offices of sponsored research and may be obtained from the Division of Extramural Outreach and Information Resources, National Institutes of Health, 6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7910, Bethesda, MD 20892-7910, telephone 301/435-0714, email: ASKNIH@odrockm1.od.nih.gov. Applications must include the following items: Applicants are to follow the NIDDK Program Project Grants Guidelines (July 1996) for preparation of the Grant Application, Chapter 3. Copies of the Guidelines are available from the Program Director listed under INQUIRIES. Each Research Project proposed (Section F - NIDDK Guidelines) is limited to 25 pages of text. Applications should contain the following: o A Table of Contents o A Rationale for the Proposed Center and a Statement of Objectives. o Institutional Environment and Resources. o Organization and Administrative Structure of the Center. o Specific Managerial Responsibilities for the Center. o Travel funds in the proposed budget for an annual meeting of Center Directors. o A description of the method for the replacement of the Center Director (should the need arise). o A description of the proposed research projects. o A description of the proposed cores. o A description of the procedure to be used for the addition/deletion of cores and projects during the proposed period of operation. o A description of the administrative relationship of the Center to the applicant institution. The RFA label available in the PHS 398 (rev. 5/95) application form must be affixed to the bottom of the face page of the application. Failure to use this label could result in delayed processing of the application such that it may not reach the review committee in time for review. In addition, the RFA title and number must be typed on line 2 of the face page of the application form and the YES box must be marked. Submit a signed, typewritten original of the application, including the Checklist, plus three signed photocopies, in one package to: DIVISION OF RESEARCH GRANTS NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH 6701 ROCKLEDGE DRIVE, ROOM 1040 - MSC 7710 BETHESDA, MD 20892-7710 BETHESDA, MD 20817 (For Express/Courier service) At time of submission, two additional copies of the application must be sent to: Chief, Review Branch Division of Extramural Activities National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases 45 Center Drive, Room 6AS-37F - MSC 6600 BETHESDA, MD 20892-6600 Applications must be received by September 24, 1997. If an application is received after that date, it will be returned to the applicant without review. REVIEW CONSIDERATIONS Upon receipt, applications will be initially reviewed for completeness and responsiveness. Incomplete applications and/or non-responsive applications will be returned to the applicant without further consideration. Evaluation for responsiveness to the program requirements and criteria stated in the RFA is an NIDDK staff function. Unsolicited material received after September 24, 1997 will not be accepted. Applications that are complete and responsive to the RFA will be evaluated for scientific and technical merit by an appropriate peer review group convened by the NIDDK in accordance with NIH peer review procedures. As part of the initial merit review, all applications will receive a written critique and undergo a process in which only those applications deemed to have the highest scientific merit will be discussed, assigned a priority score, and receive a second level review by the National Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Advisory Board. The review criteria for individual research projects include: o The scientific, technical or medical significance and originality of the proposed research. o The feasibility and adequacy of the experimental design; o The qualifications and research experience of the proposed personnel; o The availability of resources necessary for the research; o The appropriateness of the budget and timetable in relation to the scope of the proposed research. o Adequacy of plans to include both genders and minorities and their subgroups as appropriate for the scientific goals of the research. Plans for the recruitment and retention of subjects will also be evaluated. The review criteria for scientific cores include: o The appropriateness and utility of the core to the proposed Center. o The quality of the proposed facilities or services including administrative arrangements for utilizing the core. o The qualifications, experience, and commitment of the personnel involved in the core. o The appropriateness of the budget. Note: Each core unit must provide facilities or services to at least two research projects recommended for approval; The review criteria for the overall Center program include: o The scientific merit of the program as a whole. o The significance of the overall goals of the Center. o The cohesiveness and multidisciplinary scope of the Center and the coordination and interrelationship of the projects and cores to the common theme of the Center; o The leadership, scientific expertise, and commitment of the proposed Center Director. Administrative considerations include: o The institutional environment for and resources available to Center investigators. o The institutional commitment to the proposed Center. o The administrative leadership necessary to provide for the quality control of supported projects in the Center, the allocation of funds, and the ability to foster communication and cooperation among Center investigators. o The appropriateness of the budget in relation to the proposed activities of the Center. o The adequacy of addressing the protection of human subjects, animal welfare, and biohazard issues. Competing Continuation Applications Applicants are to follow the NIDDK Program Project Grants Guidelines (July 1996) for preparation of the Grant Application, Chapter 4, Part B and Part C. Copies of the Guidelines are available from the Program Director listed under INQUIRIES. For the purposes of this RFA a distinction between a P50 grant and a P01 grant is made as follows: Research projects supported by the P50 center award are of uniformly high scientific merit, and are generally related to central issues in kidney diseases and disorders. Each project should be directed to the development of fundamental knowledge leading to understanding disease processes and the design of curative or preventative strategies. The P50 grant mechanism provides an opportunity to approach multi- disciplinary basic research in a synergistic fashion. Close cooperation, communication, and collaboration among all center personnel of many professional disciplines are characteristics of a successful P50 center. In comparison, each research project of the P01 Program Project Grant must contribute to or be directly related to a clearly defined central unifying theme of the total research effort. The projects should demonstrate essential elements of unity and interdependence. Schedule Letter of Intent Receipt Date: August 25, 1997 Application Receipt Date: September 24, 1997 Initial Review: February/April 1998 Second Level Review: May 1998 Anticipated Date of Award: September 1, 1998 AWARD CRITERIA The earliest anticipated date of award is September 1, 1998. Factors that will be taken into consideration in making awards include the scientific merit of the proposed Center as determined by peer review and the availability of funds. INQUIRIES Inquiries concerning this RFA are encouraged. The opportunity to clarify any issues or questions from potential applicants is welcome. Direct inquiries regarding programmatic issues to: Ralph L. Bain, Ph.D. Division of Kidney, Urologic, and Hematologic Diseases National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases 45 Center Drive, Room 6AS-19 - MSC 6600 Bethesda, MD 20892-6600 Telephone: (301) 594-7717 FAX: (301) 480-3510 Email: bainr@ep.niddk.nih.gov Direct inquiries regarding fiscal and administrative matters to: Ms. Helen Ling Division of Extramural Activities National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases 45 Center Drive, Room 6AN-44F - MSC 6600 Bethesda, MD 20892-6600 Telephone: (301) 594-8857 FAX: (301) 480-3504 Email: lingh@ep.niddk.nih.gov AUTHORITY AND REGULATIONS This program is described in the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance No. 93.849. Awards are made under authorization of the Public Health Service Act, Title IV, Part A (Public Law 78-410, as amended by Public Law 99-158, 42 USC 241 and 285) and administered under PHS grants policies and Federal Regulations 42 CFR 52 and 45 CFR Part 74. This program is not subject to the intergovernmental review requirements of Executive Order 12372 or Health Systems Agency review. The PHS strongly encourages all grant and contract recipients to provide a smoke-free workplace and promote the non-use of all tobacco products. In addition, Public Law 103-227, the Pro-Children Act of 1994, prohibits smoking in certain facilities (or in some cases, any portion of a facility) in which regular or routine education, library, day care, health care or early childhood development services are provided to children. This is consistent with the PHS mission to protect and advance the physical and mental health of the American people. From owner-sci-resources@net.bio.net Wed May 07 23:00:00 1997 Path: biosci!biosci!not-for-mail From: BIOSCI Administrator Newsgroups: bionet.sci-resources Subject: NIH GUIDE - RFA HL-97-009 - V26(14) 05/02/97 Date: 8 May 1997 14:03:57 -0700 Organization: BIOSCI International Newsgroups for Molecular Biology Lines: 461 Sender: daemon@net.bio.net Approved: biosci-help@net.bio.net Distribution: world Message-ID: <5ktf3t$167@net.bio.net> NNTP-Posting-Host: net.bio.net NHLBI MINORITY INSTITUTIONAL RESEARCH TRAINING PROGRAM NIH GUIDE, Volume 26, Number 14, May 2, 1997 RFA: HL-97-009 P.T. 44, K.W. 0720005, 0715032, 0715040, 0715165, 0715187 National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Letter of Intent Receipt Date: July 1, 1997 Application Receipt Date: August 25, 1997 PURPOSE This National Research Service Award Program (NRSA) is intended to train graduate students, health professional students, and postdoctoral students in minority schools that have the potential to develop a meritorious program in cardiovascular, pulmonary, or hematological diseases, and/or sleep disorders for research careers in these areas. Graduate students, health professional students, and postdoctoral students in minority schools need further opportunities to develop biomedical and behavioral research skills. The Minority Institutional National Research Training Program is designed to attract students in their developmental stages and to increase their awareness of cardiovascular, pulmonary, and hematologic diseases, and sleep disorders, and to encourage them to pursue research career opportunities. HEALTHY PEOPLE 2000 The Public Health Service (PHS) is committed to achieving the health promotion and disease prevention objectives of "Healthy People 2000," a PHS-led national activity for setting priority areas. This RFA, Minority Institutional Research Training Program, is related to the priority areas of heart disease and stroke, tobacco, educational and community-based programs, environmental health, maternal and infant health, diabetes and chronic disabling diseases, and HIV infection. Potential applicants may obtain a copy of "Healthy People 2000" (Full Report: Stock No. 017-001-00474-1 or Summary Report: Stock No. 017-001-00473-1) through the Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402-9325 (telephone: 202-512-1800). ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Minority School The Institution must be a domestic medical or non-medical college, university or equivalent school in which students from underrepresented minority groups including Blacks, Hispanics, American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Pacific Islanders comprise a majority or a significant proportion of the school enrollment. It must have ongoing staff and facilities required for the proposed program. The program director at the minority school will be responsible for the selection and appointment of trainees and the overall direction of the training program. Trainees The individual to be trained must be a citizen of the United States, a non-citizen national, or have been lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence at the time of appointment for training, and have a baccalaureate degree. Trainees must be enrolled at the post-baccalaureate level (i.e., predoctoral level) in a relevant doctoral program in biomedical or behavioral sciences or the must be enrolled in a minority health professional school, or have a doctoral degree or equivalent in a biomedical or behavioral science. The Minority Institutional Research Training Program may not support studies leading to a health professional degree. Research trainees who have or are pursuing clinical degrees are expected to devote their time to research training and to confine clinical duties to those which are a part of the research training. Research Center The minority institution must identify and collaborate with a research center (medical school or comparable institution) that has strong, well-established cardiovascular, pulmonary, hematologic, or sleep disorders research and research training programs. Cooperation between institutions is needed to provide each trainee with a mentor who is recognized as an accomplished investigator in cardiovascular, pulmonary, hematologic or sleep disorders research and who will assist the advisor at the minority institution in the trainee's development and research plan. Plans for summer training as well as academic year training should be developed by the student and advisor at the trainee's home institution in collaboration with the mentor at the research center. It is expected that both advisor and mentor will guide the trainee through the initial training period and continue this interaction throughout the award. MECHANISM OF SUPPORT The RFA will use the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Institutional National Research Service Award (NRSA) grant (T32) mechanism. Responsibility for the planning, direction, and execution of the proposed training program will be solely that of the applicant. The total project period for an application submitted in response to this RFA may not exceed five years. Funding beyond the first year of the grant is contingent upon satisfactory progress during the preceding year and the availability of funds. Indirect costs will be awarded based on eight percent of total direct costs exclusive of equipment, tuition, and fees. The anticipated award date is May 1, 1998. The Minority Institutional Research Training program may support predoctoral students, postdoctoral trainees, and short-term trainees in health professional schools. Stipend levels for predoctoral and short-term trainees are $11,496 per year and stipend levels for postdoctoral trainees range from $20,292-$32,300 per year. Stipends may be supplemented from non-Federal sources. Training related expenses ($1,500 annually for predoctoral trainees and $2,500 annually for postdoctoral trainees), tuition and fees, and travel expenses ($800 per year) may also be requested for trainees, although the levels may vary depending on the type of training to be supported. The trainees may be appointed to the training program for 9-12 months periods (for short-term trainees, the period of appointment may be of two to three months duration) at any time during the course of the ear after acceptance as a full-time student. A strong interest in a cardiovascular, pulmonary, hematologic, or sleep disorders research career must be evident. Trainees are encouraged to be appointed to the training for at least two years, in order to obtain adequate training. RESEARCH OBJECTIVES Background Many studies have emphasized the need for minority individuals to participate in modern research activities to develop their investigative talents. There are existing programs at the National Institutes of Health that are designed to answer this need, such as the Minority Biomedical Research Support Program, the Minority Access to Research Careers Program, and the Minority Research Supplement Program. Even though these programs are successful in meeting their specific objectives and career development goals, graduate students, health professional students, and individuals in postdoctoral training in minority schools need further opportunities to develop biomedical and behavioral research skills. The Minority Institutional Research Training Program is designed to offer research training grant awards in cardiovascular, pulmonary, hematologic, and sleep disorders research to minority schools to enable qualified graduate students, health professional students, and individuals in postdoctoral training to participate in research programs. It is expected to attract students in their developmental stages, increase their awareness of these diseases, and to encourage them to pursue career opportunities in research related to the mission of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Within NHLBI, the term "hematologic" covers research on thrombosis and hemostasis, immunohematology, blood cell disorders, sickle cell disease, blood resources including blood component and derivative therapy, blood substitutes and blood resource management, aspects of AIDS-products in AIDS prevention and treatment, and AIDS-related bone marrow and hematologic disorders. Other Institutes of the NIH are responsible for research on disorders of white cells, including the leukemias and other blood malignancies, and basic immunology related to the lymphoid system. Therefore NHLBI cannot provide support for such studies. Implementation Minority institutions will compete for Institutional National Research Service Awards (NRSA) of up to five years' duration. Funds will be provided on an annual basis to develop and maintain a stable research training experience for qualified students. Awards recommended for the continuation years will be made contingent upon satisfactory progress during the preceding year, upon the availability of funds, and the requisite level authorization for continued support of training activities. Successful applicants may compete for a second award of up to five years' duration upon completion of the initial grant period. The minority institution will identify and complete arrangements with an established cardiovascular, pulmonary, hematologic, or sleep disorders research center(s) before submitting an application. Predoctoral trainees appointed to the grant may receive support for up to five years. Postdoctoral trainees appointed to the grant may receive support for up to three years. The trainee and his or her faculty advisor at the minority institution will jointly select a faculty mentor at the research center. A written commitment to the training plan signed by the intended faculty mentors at the research center, the department(s) involved and countersigned by both institutional officials, must be part of the application. Students may spend not more than 50% time at the research training center over the course of the year, including a period of intensive research training during the summer. Students are expected to pursue their research training on a full-time basis devoting no less than 40 hours per week as specified by the sponsoring institution in accordance with its own policies. Students are expected to meet the degree requirements at their institution. Because the research training environment provides a powerful context in which to promote responsible research practices, all competing Institutional NRSA research training grant applications must include a description of formal or informal activities or instruction related to the responsible conduct of research that will be incorporated into the proposed research training program. LETTER OF INTENT Prospective applicants are asked to submit by, July 1, 1997, a letter of intent that includes the name, address, and telephone number of the Program Director, the identities of other key personnel and participating institutions, and the number and title of the RFA in response to which the application may be submitted. Although a letter of intent is not required, is not binding, and does not enter into the review of subsequent applications, the information that it contains allows NIH staff to estimate the potential review workload and to avoid conflict of interest in the review. The letter of intent is to be sent to Dr. C. James Scheirer, at the address listed under APPLICATION PROCEDURES. APPLICATION PROCEDURES Submit applications on Form PHS-398 (Rev. 5/95) using substitute pages for the Institutional National Research Service Award. This form is available at the applicant institution's office of sponsored research. An application may also be obtained from the NIH Office of Extramural Research, (301-435-0174, E-mail to asknih@odrockm1.od.nih.gov). When submitting the application, identify the NHLBI Minority Institutional Research Training Program on the face page. Special supplemental instructions for preparing the application are included in the full program guidelines. Applicants must contact the appropriate individual listed under the Program information section for a copy of these guidelines prior to preparation of the application. Send the completed application and four (4) signed exact photocopies by August 25, 1997 to: DIVISION OF RESEARCH GRANTS NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH 6701 ROCKLEDGE DRIVE ROOM 1040 MSC 7710 BETHESDA, MD 20892-7710 BETHESDA, MD 20817 (for courier service) One additional copy of the application must be sent to: Dr. C. James Scheirer Chief, Review Branch NHLBI Research Training Review Special Emphasis Panel Division of Extramural Affairs, NHLBI 6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7924 Bethesda, Maryland 20892-7924 Telephone (301) 435-0288 FAX: (301) 480-3541 Internet Address: james_scheirer@nih.gov REVIEW CONSIDERATIONS All applications responding to this announcement will be reviewed for scientific and technical merit by the Research Training Review Special Emphasis Panel of the Division of Extramural Affairs, NHLBI, followed by a second level review by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Advisory Council. Review Criteria The factors to be considered in the evaluation of the proposed training program are: Adequacy of faculty, facilities, and resources for the proposed research training, both at the minority institution and the established research center; Adequacy of the cooperative arrangements between the minority institution and the established research center; Commitment of the relevant faculty and the two institutions to the goals of the training program; and Procedures for evaluation of the impact of the program on the trainees involved. PROVISIONS OF THE AWARD The trainees may be appointed for 9-12 months at any time during the course of the budget period. Students must have been accepted on a full-time basis. A strong interest in a cardiovascular, pulmonary, hematologic, or sleep disorders research career must be evident. Short-term training positions for health professional students are allowed under this program. Funds may be requested for: Stipends - The current stipend level for graduate and health professional student trainees at all levels of experience is $11,496 per year. Current stipend levels for postdoctoral trainees range from $20,292 - $32,300 per year, depending on experience. Tuition, Fees, and Medical Insurance (individual coverage) when regularly charged to all students regardless of their source of support, are allowable trainee costs. Please refer to Detailed Budget under Supplemental Instructions for additional information. Trainee Travel Costs - The institution may request funds to cover the costs of trainee travel including attendance at scientific meetings that are necessary to the individual's training. The maximum allowable per student per year is $800. Funds for commuting expenses that are clearly in excess of those incurred during the usual home to work travel of the trainee may also be requested. Training-Related Expenses - Funds are provided to partially defray the cost of training such as staff salaries, equipment, research supplies, staff travel, and other expenses. The current level of training related expenses is $1,500 per annum per full-time graduate student trainee or health professional student trainee, and $2,500 per annum for postdoctoral trainees. Facilities and Administrative (Indirect) Costs - The Notice of Grant Award will provide facilities and administrative (indirect) costs based on 8% of total direct costs, exclusive of equipment, and tuition and fees. Payback Agreement - The NIH Revitalization Act of 1993 substantially modified the service payback requirement for individuals supported by the NRSA program. Beginning with new appointments and reappointments made on or after June 10, 1993, the following new guidelines will apply: Predoctoral trainees will not be required to sign the Payback Agreement Form (PHS Form 6031) and will not incur a service payback obligation. All postdoctoral trainees must sign an agreement to fulfill the NRSA payback requirements when they are appointed initially to a training grant or receive an individual fellowship. Postdoctoral trainees in the first twelve months of postdoctoral NRSA support must sign the payback agreement form and will incur one month of payback obligation for each month of support. Postdoctoral trainees in the thirteenth and subsequent months of NRSA support will not sign the Payback Agreement Form and will incur no obligation for that support. The thirteenth and subsequent months of postdoctoral NRSA support will be considered acceptable payback service for prior postdoctoral support. Individuals who are appointed to their initial NRSA postdoctoral period on or after June 10, 1993, and continue under that award for two years will have fulfilled their first year obligation by the end of the second year. Service payback obligations can also be paid back by engaging in health-related research and/or teaching that averages more than 20 hours per week of a full year. AWARD CRITERIA The following will be considered in making funding decisions: o Technical merit of the application as determined by peer review; o Availability of funds; o Program balance among the research areas of the announcement. INQUIRIES Special supplemental instructions for preparing the application are included in the full program guidelines. Applicants must contact the appropriate individual listed below for a copy of these guidelines prior to preparation of the application. Michael Commarato, Ph.D. or Beth Schucker, M.A. Division of Heart and Vascular Diseases National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7940 Bethesda, Maryland 20892-7940 Telephone: (301) 435-0530 FAX: (301) 480-1454 Internet Address: michael_commarato@nih.gov or beth_schucker@nih.gov Mary Reilly, M.S. or Ann Rothgeb Division of Lung Diseases National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7952 Bethesda, Maryland 20892-7952 Telephone (301) 435-0222 FAX: (301) 480-3557 Internet Address: mary_reilly@nih.gov or ann_rothgeb@nih.gov Joyce Creamer, MBA or Bette Houston Division of Blood Diseases and Resources National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7950 Bethesda, Maryland 20892-7950 Telephone: (301) 435-0064 FAX: (301) 480-1046 Internet Address: joyce_creamer@nih.gov or bette_houston@nih.gov Thomas Blaszkowski, Ph.D. Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Applications National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7838 Bethesda, Maryland 20892-7838 Telephone: (301) 435-0433 Internet Address: thomas_blaszkowski@nih.gov James P. Kiley, Ph. D. National Center for Sleep Disorders Research National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7920 Bethesda, MD 20892-7920 Telephone: (301) 435-0199 FAX: (301) 480-3451 Internet Address: james_kiley@nih.gov Direct inquiries regarding fiscal matters to: William W. Darby Grants Operations Branch, Heart Section Division of Extramural Affairs National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7926 Bethesda, Maryland 20892-7926 Telephone: (301) 435-0177 FAX: (301) 480-3310 Internet Address: william_darby@nih.gov Raymond L. Zimmerman Grants Operations Branch, Lung Section National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7926 Bethesda, Maryland 20892-7926 Telephone: (301) 435-0171 Internet Address: raymond_zimmerm@nih.gov Jane Davis Grants Operations Branch, Blood Section Division of Extramural Affairs National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7926 Bethesda, Maryland 20892-7926 Phone: (301) 435-0166 Internet Address: jane_davis@nih.gov AUTHORITY AND REGULATION This program is described in the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance numbers 93.837, 93.838, 93.839, and 93.231. Awards are made under the authority of the Public Health Service Act, Title IV, Part A (Public Law 78-410, as amended by Public Law 99-158, 42 USC 241 and 285) and administered under PHS grant policies and Federal Regulations at 42 CFR 52 and 45 CFR Part 74. This program is not subject to the intergovernmental review requirements of Executive Order 12372 or Health Systems Agency review. The PHS strongly encourages all grant and contract recipients to provide a smoke-free workplace and promote the non-use of all tobacco products. In addition, Public Law 103-227, the Pro-Children Act of 1994, prohibits smoking in certain facilities (or in some cases, any portion of a facility) in which regular or routine education, library, day care, health care or early childhood development services are provided to children. This is consistent with the PHS mission to protect and advance the physical and mental health of the American people. From owner-sci-resources@net.bio.net Wed May 07 23:00:00 1997 Path: biosci!biosci!not-for-mail From: BIOSCI Administrator Newsgroups: bionet.sci-resources Subject: NIH GUIDE - RFA HL-97-008 - V26(14) 05/02/97 Date: 8 May 1997 14:03:44 -0700 Organization: BIOSCI International Newsgroups for Molecular Biology Lines: 514 Sender: daemon@net.bio.net Approved: biosci-help@net.bio.net Distribution: world Message-ID: <5ktf3g$157@net.bio.net> NNTP-Posting-Host: net.bio.net NHLBI SHORT-TERM RESEARCH TRAINING FOR MINORITY STUDENTS PROGRAM NIH GUIDE, Volume 26, Number 14, May 2, 1997 RFA: HL-97-008 P.T. 44, FF; K.W. 0720005, 0715032, 0715040, 0715165, 0715187 National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Letter of Intent Receipt Date: July 1, 1997 Application Receipt Date: August 25, 1997 PURPOSE This program provides short-term research support to minority underrepresented undergraduate students, graduate students, and students in health professional schools to provide them with career opportunities in cardiovascular, pulmonary, and hematologic diseases, and sleep disorders research. The grant provides training experiences of 2-3 consecutive months and exposes talented students to the various possibilities in pursuing a biomedical research career. HEALTHY PEOPLE 2000 The Public Health Service (PHS) is committed to achieving the health promotion and disease prevention objectives of "Healthy People 2000," a PHS-led national activity for setting priority areas. This RFA, Short-Term Training for Minority Students Program, is related to the priority areas of Heart Disease and Stroke, Tobacco, Educational and Community-Based Programs, Environmental Health, Maternal and Infant Health, Diabetes and Chronic Disabling Diseases, and HIV Infection. Potential applicants may obtain a copy of "Healthy People 2000" (Full Report: Stock No. 017-001- 00474-1) through or "Healthy People 2000" (Summary Report: Stock No. 017-001-00473-1) through the Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402-9325 (telephone: 202-783-3238). ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Applicant Institutions Domestic non-federal private or public nonprofit institutions or organizations engaged in health related research may apply for grants. The applicant institution must have the available research facilities, personnel, and support for the program in either the cardiovascular, pulmonary, hematologic diseases or sleep disorders area. Minority institutions with adequate staff and resources in these research areas are encouraged to apply. Only one application per health professional school may be submitted for a given receipt date and a health professional school may have only one active NHLBI Short-Term Training for Minority Students award at any time. Trainees The grantee institution will be responsible for the selection and appointment of trainees. Underrepresented minority students are defined as individuals belonging to a particular ethnic or racial group that has been determined by the grantee institution to be underrepresented in biomedical or behavioral research. In making awards, NHLBI may give priority to those programs involving Black, Hispanic, American Indian, Alaska Native, and Pacific Islander or other ethnic or racial group members who have been found to be underrepresented in biomedical and behavioral research nationally. Trainees should have successfully completed at least one undergraduate year at an accredited school or university (including baccalaureate schools of nursing) or have successfully completed one semester at a school of medicine, optometry, osteopathy, dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmacy or public health or an institution with an accredited graduate program, prior to participating in the short term training program. These grants are intended to introduce students to research that would not otherwise be available through their regular course of studies. For graduate students, this may include students in programs such as mathematics, where they would not normally be exposed to biomedical research, or students who may need a specialized research experience to supplement their normal education. Individuals holding Ph.D., M.D., D.V.M. or equivalent doctoral degrees in the health sciences are not eligible. Trainees must be citizens or noncitizen nationals of the United States, or must have been lawfully admitted for permanent residency (i.e., in possession of the Alien Registration Receipt Card) at the time of appointment. Individuals on temporary or student visas are not eligible. Trainees need not be affiliated with the applicant institution. The applicant's program can be designed to include research experiences for minority individuals at the applicant institution but applicants are strongly encouraged to propose a program that includes a number of individuals from other institutions, schools, colleges or universities. The only requirement for student selection is that the trainees fulfill the above referenced eligibility requirements. MECHANISM OF SUPPORT This RFA will use the National Institutes of Health (NIH) National Research Service Award Short-Term Research Training grant (T35) mechanism. Responsibility for the planning, direction, and execution of the proposed training program will be solely that of the applicant. The total project period for an application submitted in response to this RFA may not exceed five years. Funding beyond the first year of the grant is contingent upon satisfactory progress during the preceding year and the availability of funds. Facilities and administrative costs will be awarded based on eight percent of total direct costs exclusive of equipment and tuition and fees. The anticipated award date is May 1, 1998. Institutions may request support for at least four but not more than 24, short-term trainees per year. The requested number of short-term trainees must be justified in the application. Trainees may be minority undergraduate, graduate, or health professional students. The stipend level for trainees is $958 per month. Stipends may be supplemented from non-federal funds. Training-related expenses up to $125 per month per trainee may be requested. In addition, up to $250 per month per trainee may be requested to cover the cost of housing at the training site. Trainee tuition and fees, where necessary to the research training, must be covered by the Training Related Expenses. RESEARCH OBJECTIVES Background There is a need for minority students to participate in research activities to develop their investigative talents and increase the pool of accomplished minority biomedical investigators. In 1991, 108 Ph.D.s in the natural sciences were awarded to Blacks. Academic positions totaled 1177 Blacks (1.7%) and 1113 Hispanics (1.6%) in the life sciences out of a total of 69,122 individuals. In medical schools, there were 1748 Black (2.3%) and 2087 Hispanic (2.8%) faculty members in 1993. Blacks represented 7.4% of the total enrollment in medical schools in 1993. Although there is strong interest in the scientific community in attracting minority students into research careers, few minority students opt for science degrees and research careers, and few minority graduates of health professional schools go on to investigative careers. The shortage of qualified minority investigators in research positions may even exacerbate the situation due to a lack of visible role models for students. There are existing programs at the National Institutes of Health that are designed to answer the need for more minority investigators. These include the Minority Biomedical Research Support Program, the Minority Access to Research Careers Program, the NHLBI Minority Institutional Research Training Grant, Predoctoral Fellowship Awards for Minority Students, Mentored Research Scientist Development Award for Minority Faculty, Minority Institution Faculty Mentored Research Scientist Development Award, and the Minority Investigator Research Supplement Program. Although these programs are successful in meeting their specific objectives and career development goals, the need to attract minority students to research careers continues to exist. This NHLBI Short-Term Training for Minority Students program is designed to provide opportunities for underrepresented minority students at the undergraduate and graduate level to become exposed to biomedical research in areas relevant to cardiovascular, pulmonary, and hematologic diseases and sleep disorders through a short-term research experience. Within NHLBI, the term "hematologic" covers research on thrombosis and hemostasis, immunohematology, blood cell disorders, sickle cell disease, blood resources including blood component and derivative therapy, blood substitutes and blood resource management, aspects of AIDS products in AIDS prevention and treatment, and AIDS-related bone marrow and hematologic disorders and the lymphocirculatory system. Other Institutes of the NIH are responsible for research on disorders of white cells, including the leukemias and other blood malignancies, and basic immunology related to the lymphoid system. Therefore NHLBI cannot provide support for such studies. Program Elements Each institution is invited to develop an application that is best suited to its own strengths and characteristics. Applicant institutions need not propose a program that encompasses all types of students, i.e., undergraduate, graduate, and health professional students, but specific types of students should not be excluded without careful consideration and justification. The goal is to identify a cadre of minority students with the potential to pursue careers in biomedical and biobehavioral research in the areas of heart, lung, blood diseases, transfusion medicine, and sleep disorders, and provide the students with a research training experience that may stimulate interest in pursuing a research career. If the proposed area of research is not obviously related to the areas indicated, the principal investigator should explain the benefits of training students in areas not within the mission of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. The training program director and participating faculty should have a demonstrated record of success in conducting research and in working with research trainees. Each application should describe a plan for widely advertising the program to ensure active competition for appointments. Special attention should be given to the recruitment of individuals from minority groups that now are underrepresented nationally in the biomedical and behavioral sciences, i.e., Blacks, Hispanics, American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Pacific Islanders. The strategy for recruitment is left to the discretion of the applicant institution. The overall training is not restricted to activities in a single discipline or department but should be centered on research activities in the areas of cardiovascular, pulmonary, hematologic diseases, and sleep disorders. The choice of participating training sites and mentors should be carefully described, to show that the institution's best environments and role models have been selected. It is expected that students will be assigned to the institution's strongest research and training programs, which may involve basic or clinical research or a combination of both. For those training programs that include undergraduate students, emphasis should be on providing an interesting, informative, inspiring, and stimulating research experience with close supervision in a nurturing environment. At the end of the research experience, the undergraduate students may be required to write a paper or present a poster of their research endeavors. More rigorous intellectual endeavors, such as research presentations, should be carefully considered, depending on the enthusiasm and talent of the individual trainee. Each institution will be expected to encourage among the trainees a sense of belonging to a community of scientists. Among the methods that may be used is providing a special seminar series, addressing such topics as research methodology, instrumentation, experimental design, grantsmanship, research ethics, scientific publications, etc. A plan for evaluating the impact of the program on the institution and the trainee is required. Grants will be awarded to support no fewer than 4, and not more than 24 trainees per budget period, based on a full-time three month appointment. A trainee may be appointed for a minimum of two months and a maximum of three months during a budget period; however, institutions are encouraged to appoint a trainee for more than one budget period, e.g., two or more successive summer research experiences. A student may be appointed, in special circumstances, to more than one 3-month period during a budget period, provided prior approval is obtained from the staff of the NHLBI. All research training must be full-time during the specific training sequence. It is expected that most programs will be designed to provide a summer research experience but other innovative program designs and time schedules will be considered. Authority: Under authority of Section 487 of the Public Health Service Act as amended (42 USC 288), the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute awards National Research Service Award (NRSA) Short-Term Training Students in Health Professional Schools (STSHPS) institutional grants. These grants, by supporting short-term research training experiences of two to three consecutive months, expose talented students in health professional schools to the opportunities inherent in a research career. The Short-Term Training for Minority Students program is based on the STSHPS program and is designed to help ameliorate the shortage of minority biomedical and biobehavioral investigators in the areas of heart, lung, and blood diseases and sleep disorders by attracting minority students in their developmental stages, increasing their awareness of heart, blood vessel, lung, blood diseases, transfusion medicine, and sleep disorders and acquainting them with career opportunities in biomedical and behavioral research. LETTER OF INTENT Prospective applicants are asked to submit, by July 1, 1997, a letter of intent that includes the name, address, and telephone number of the Program Director, the identities of other key personnel and participating institutions, and the number and title of the RFA in response to which the application may be submitted. Although a letter of intent is not required, is not binding, and does not enter into the review of subsequent applications, the information that it contains allows NIH staff to estimate the potential review workload and to avoid conflict of interest in the review. The letter of intent is to be sent to Dr. C. James Scheirer, at the address listed under APPLICATION PROCEDURES. APPLICATION PROCEDURES Submit applications on Form PHS-398 (Rev. 5/95), Application for Public Health Service Grant, using the Institutional National Research Service Award substitution pages NN-PP. This form is available at the applicant institution's office of sponsored research. An application may also be obtained from the NIH Office of Extramural Research (301-435-0714; E-mail: asknih@odrockm1.od.nih.gov). When submitting the application, identify the NHLBI Short-Term Training for NHLBI Minority Students Program, on the face page in item 1, and the RFA number HL-97-008 in item 2. Special supplemental instructions for preparing the application are included in the full program guidelines. Applicants must contact the appropriate individual listed under the inquiries section for a copy of these guidelines prior to preparation of the application. Send the completed application and four (4) signed exact photocopies by the announced receipt date (August 25, 1997) to: Division of Research Grants National Institutes of Health 6701 Rockledge Drive, Room 1040, MSC 7710 Bethesda, MD 20892-7710 Bethesda, MD 20817 (for courier service) One additional copy of the application must be sent to: Dr. C. James Scheirer Chief, Review Branch NHLBI Research Training Review Special Emphasis Panel Division of Extramural Affairs, NHLBI 6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7924 Bethesda, Maryland 20892-7924 Telephone: (301) 435-0288 FAX: (301) 480-3541 REVIEW CONSIDERATIONS All applications responding to this announcement will be reviewed for scientific and technical merit by the Research Training Review Special Emphasis Panel of the Division of Extramural Affairs, NHLBI, followed by a second level review by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Advisory Council. Review Criteria The factors to be considered in the evaluation of the proposed training program are: Design of the proposed training program; Qualifications, dedication, and previous training record of the program director and participating faculty; Adequacy of facilities, environment, grant support, and other resources for the proposed research training; Feasibility of proposed methods of recruiting, selecting and assigning minority students; Commitment of the institution and participating faculty to the objectives of the training program; Procedures for evaluation of the effectiveness of the program and the impact of the program on the students involved and its impact on the institution; and Plans for tracking students. PROVISIONS OF THE AWARD Period of Support Institutions applying for a new or a competitive renewal Short-Term Training for Minority Students grant may request up to five years of support. The earliest start date is May 1. Trainee Expenses The stipend level for trainees is $958 per month. Stipends may be supplemented by an institution from non-Federal funds. No Federal funds may be used for stipend supplementation unless specifically authorized under the terms of the program from which the supplemental funds are derived. Under no circumstances may the conditions of stipend supplementation detract from or prolong the training. Trainee Related Expenses Up to $125 per month for each participating student may be requested to defray other costs of training, such as staff salaries, consultant costs, research supplies, etc. Trainee tuition and fees, where necessary to the research training, must be covered by the Training Related Expenses. Trainee Travel Expenses Up to $500 per year per trainee may be requested to cover domestic trainee travel to and from the training site. In addition, up to $250 per month per trainee may be requested to cover housing costs for trainees. Facilities and Administrative (Indirect) Costs Facilities and administrative (indirect) costs for short-term training grants will be reimbursed at 8 percent of total allowable direct costs. Trainee Reporting Requirements A Statement of Appointment form (PHS 2271, rev.1/95) must be submitted at the start of each trainee appointment and reappointment. Individuals supported under this program are not required to sign an NRSA Payback Agreement or submit an NRSA Termination Notice. Applicants for competitive renewal applications will be required to provide information concerning past trainees in the program, the accomplishments of the program, trainee publications, and whether students supported by the program have pursued research careers. Other Terms and Conditions Except as modified by this announcement, the terms and conditions in the National Research Service Awards, Guidelines for Individual Awards - Institutional Grants (January 6,1984), as amended, will be applicable to grants made under this program. AWARD CRITERIA The following will be considered in making funding decisions: o Technical merit of the application as determined by peer review; o Availability of funds; o Program balance among the research areas of the announcement. INQUIRIES Special supplemental instructions for preparing the application are included in the full Program Guidelines. Applicants must contact the appropriate individual listed below for a copy of these guidelines prior to preparation of the application. Michael Commarato, Ph.D. or Beth Schucker, M.A. Division of Heart and Vascular Diseases National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7940 Bethesda, Maryland 20892-7940 Telephone: (301) 435-0530 FAX: (301) 480-1454 Internet Address: michael_commarato@nih.gov or beth_schucker@nih.gov Mary Reilly, M.S. or Ann Rothgeb Division of Lung Diseases National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7952 Bethesda, Maryland 20892-7952 Telephone: (301) 435-0222 FAX: (301) 480-3557 Internet Address: mary_reilly@nih.gov or ann_rothgeb@nih.gov Joyce Creamer, MBA or Bette Houston Division of Blood Diseases and Resources National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7950 Bethesda, Maryland 20892-7950 Telephone: (301) 435-0064 FAX: (301) 480- 0146 Internet Address: joyce_creamer@nih.gov or bette_houston@nih.gov Thomas Blaszkowski, Ph.D. Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Applications National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7838 Bethesda, Maryland 20892-7838 Telephone: (301) 435-0433 FAX: (301) 480-1455 Internet Address: thomas_blaszkowski@nih.gov James P. Key, Ph.D. National Center for Sleep Disorders Research National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 6701 Rockledge Drive MSC 7920 Bethesda, Maryland 20892-7920 Telephone: (301) 435-0199 FAX: (301) 480-3451 Internet Address: james_kiley@nih.gov Direct inquiries regarding fiscal matters to: William W. Darby Grants Operations Branch, Heart Section Division of Extramural Affairs National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7926 Bethesda, Maryland 20892-7926 Telephone: (301) 435-0177 FAX: (301) 480-3310 Internet Address: william_darby@nih.gov Raymond L. Zimmerman Grants Operations Branch, Lung Section National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7926 Bethesda, MD 20892-7926 Telephone: (301) 435-0171 FAX: (301) 480-3310 Internet Address: raymond_zimmerm@nih.gov Jane Davis Grants Operations Branch, Blood Section Division of Extramural Affairs National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7926 Bethesda, Maryland 20892-7926 Telephone: (301) 435-0166 FAX: (301) 480-3310 Internet Address: jane_davis@nih.gov AUTHORITY AND REGULATIONS This program is described in the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance numbers 93.837, 93.838, 93.839 and 93.231. Awards are made under the authority of the Public Health Service Act, Title IV, Part A (Public Law 78-410, as amended by Public Law 99-158, 42 USC 241 and 285) and administered under PHS grant policies and Federal Regulations at 42 CFR 52 and 45 CFR Part 74. This program is not subject to the intergovernmental review requirements of Executive Order 12372 or Health Systems Agency review. The PHS strongly encourages all grant and contract recipients to provide a smoke-free workplace and promote the non-use of all tobacco products. In addition, Public Law 102-277, the Pro-Children Act of 1994, prohibits smoking in certain facilities (or in some cases, any portion of a facility) in which regular or routine education, library, day care, health care or early childhood development services are provided to children. This is consistent with the PHS mission to protect and advance the physical and mental health of the American people. From owner-sci-resources@net.bio.net Wed May 07 23:00:00 1997 Path: biosci!biosci!not-for-mail From: BIOSCI Administrator Newsgroups: bionet.sci-resources Subject: NIH GUIDE - RFA NOT-97-005 - V26(14) 05/02/97 Date: 8 May 1997 14:02:23 -0700 Organization: BIOSCI International Newsgroups for Molecular Biology Lines: 92 Sender: daemon@net.bio.net Approved: biosci-help@net.bio.net Distribution: world Message-ID: <5ktf0v$s2@net.bio.net> NNTP-Posting-Host: net.bio.net FUNDING STRATEGIES FOR FY 1997 NIH Guide, Volume 26, Number 14, May 2, 1997 P.T. 34; K.W. 1014006 National Institutes of Health The information provided below will guide the NIH Institutes and Centers (IC) in their funding decisions on Research Project Grants in FY 1997. Research Projects are primarily investigator-initiated basic science research, including R01s, R03s, R29s, P01s and U01s. This group does not include SBIR/STTR awards. The core principles, which are not specifically associated with FY 97, remain essentially the same as in recent years. The funding strategies reflect some changes due to the FY 97 appropriation level and associated congressional directives. Core Principles 1. Grants will be awarded on the basis of reasonable and allowable costs consonant with the principles of sound cost management and in consideration of Institute or Center priorities, constraints on the growth of average grant costs, and the availability of funds. 2. The award of noncompeting research project grants at committed levels continues to be the cornerstone of the NIH Financial Management Plan and is the basis of the plan~s credibility with the scientific community and Congress. 3. Determination of commitments for future years must take into consideration stability of support for investigators, optimum portfolio balance, and opportunities to address emerging problems. Fiscal Year 1997 Funding Strategies 1. The direct cost level for the future years of FY 1997 new and competing continuation awards, on the average, will not exceed the direct cost level of the previous budget period by more than 3 percent. The 4 percent adjustment factor used to calculate future year direct costs for grants made prior to FY 97 will remain in effect (see 2. below). NIH staff may make exceptions for specifically justified programmatic requirements and one-time, non- recurring costs such as equipment. 2. For noncompeting grants, every effort will be made to make awards at the committed levels. If fiscal conditions in an IC are such that funding at the committed levels is not possible, the IC will consult with the Deputy Director for Extramural Research, NIH, to determine an appropriate resolution. 3. For competing grants, budgetary reductions from the requested level will be achieved through a combination of initial review and Council/Board recommendations, staff review for cost allocability, allowability, and reasonableness, and programmatic adjustments to arrive at an appropriate funding level. Each IC will develop a plan that specifies the general rationale and methodology for adjustments based on programmatic considerations. This plan will be available as part of the IC official program file. 4. Based on adjustments to the project, IC staff, in consultation with the principal investigator, will decide if a new statement of specific aims is required. When reductions are 25% or more below the IRG recommended level, staff will obtain a revised statement of specific aims, a revised budget and/or revised timetable, as appropriate for the project, which must be approved and countersigned by the institution, and approved by program and grants management staff. This material serves as documentation of budgetary and programmatic adjustments described in this paragraph and in item (3) above. To ensure initial review group understanding of the modified scope of a funded project, the approved statement of revised aims should be submitted by the investigator in competing continuation grant applications. 5. For competing continuation grants, one factor in arriving at the award amount will be the level of support in prior years and the extent to which the IC can permit growth within the existing constraints on average costs. 6. The average length of research project grants will not exceed four years. 7. In making funding decisions, ICs will consider the total costs of a grant, especially for those grants near the IC funding payline. INQUIRIES For further information, contact the Grants Management Specialist or Health Scientist Administrator responsible for your award. Their names and telephone numbers are indicated on the Notice of Grant Award. From owner-sci-resources@net.bio.net Wed May 07 23:00:00 1997 Path: biosci!biosci!not-for-mail From: BIOSCI Administrator Newsgroups: bionet.sci-resources Subject: NIH GUIDE - RFA AG-97-005 - V26(14) 05/02/97 Date: 8 May 1997 14:01:59 -0700 Organization: BIOSCI International Newsgroups for Molecular Biology Lines: 626 Sender: daemon@net.bio.net Approved: biosci-help@net.bio.net Distribution: world Message-ID: <5ktf07$r7@net.bio.net> NNTP-Posting-Host: net.bio.net EDWARD R. ROYBAL CENTERS FOR RESEARCH ON APPLIED GERONTOLOGY NIH GUIDE, Volume 26, Number 14, May 2, 1997 RFA: AG-97-005 P.T. 04; K.W. 0710010, 0404000 National Institute on Aging Letter of Intent Receipt Date: July 24, 1997 Application Receipt Date: October 24, 1997 PURPOSE This Request for Applications (RFA) seeks applications in support of the Edward R. Roybal Centers for Research on Applied Gerontology. The Roybal Centers program's purpose is to facilitate the process of translating basic behavioral and social research theories and findings into practical outcomes that will benefit the lives of older people. The Roybal Centers focus on strategies to improve quality of life, enhance productivity, and minimize the need for care. The Roybal Centers have an emphasis distinct from the clinical and biomedical approaches that are sponsored through the Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Centers (RFA AG-96-003, NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts, Vol. 25, No. 12, April 19, 1996). HEALTHY PEOPLE 2000 The Public Health Service (PHS) is committed to achieving the health promotion and disease prevention objectives of "Healthy People 2000," a PHS-led national activity for setting priorities. This RFA, Centers of Research on Applied Gerontology, addresses several priority areas including chronic disabling conditions, physical activity and fitness, violent and abusive behavior, and unintentional injuries as they relate to older people. Potential applicants may obtain a copy of "Healthy People 2000" (Full Report: Stock No. 017-001-00474-0 or Summary Report: Stock No. 017-001-00473-1) through the Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402-9325 (telephone 202/512-1800). ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Domestic, public and private, for-profit and non-profit institutions and organizations, such as universities, colleges, hospitals, laboratories, units of state and local governments, and eligible agencies of the Federal government are eligible to respond to this RFA. Racial/ethnic minority individuals, women, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply as Principal Investigators. Foreign institutions are not eligible to apply. The principal investigator (PI) is required to have held, or to now hold, at least two R01 (or similar grants including a competing continuation as separate) grants as principal investigator. These grants must have been awarded as new or competing continuation awards within 10 years of the receipt date of this RFA. The investigative team, including the PI, is required to have held, or to hold, at least three such awards in the same interval. Questions about eligibility may be referred to the program contact listed under INQUIRIES. MECHANISM OF SUPPORT The support mechanism for these awards will be the specialized center (P50) mechanism. Such awards support activities that comprise a multidimensional approach to a particular problem area. A maximum of five years of support may be requested. At that time, funds may be available for competitive renewal of the Centers. All current policies and requirements that govern the research grant programs of the NIH will apply to grants awarded in connection with this RFA. FUNDS AVAILABLE An estimated $2,500,000 to $3,000,000 will be made available in Fiscal Year 1998 to support awards made under this RFA. It is expected that up to six awards will be made at a maximum of $400,000 direct costs per award in the first year, exclusive of facilities and administrative costs on consortia. Budget increments for subsequent years will be limited to no more than two percent. Applications with budget requests exceeding this amount will not be accepted by the NIA and will be returned to the applicant. This level of support is dependent on the receipt of a sufficient number of applications of high scientific merit. Awards pursuant to the RFA are contingent upon the availability of funds for this purpose. The NIA appreciates the value of complementary funding from other public and private sources, including foundations and industrial concerns, for activities that will complement and expand those supported by the NIA. RESEARCH OBJECTIVES Researchers are encouraged to seek funding to apply the theories, paradigms, and methodology of the behavioral and social sciences to address practical problems of late middle aged and older people, such as at work, in the home, in transportation, in health care, or in other areas of concern to the population. The focus of this initiative is on translating research results from basic behavioral and social science into practical benefits for older adults. The organizing principle behind each center should reflect this aim of establishing a pattern of research translation from basic research to practical outcome. Each Center should focus on a single organizing theme, rather than cover the spectrum of problems that may be addressed by the initiative as a whole. The individual projects that are part of the Center should have as their goal a practical end point--improvement in some indicator or indicators of functioning in these different environments. The research may apply to a real world situation, findings and methodologies previously identified through smaller or more selective studies. Alternatively, the research may apply broader scientific knowledge from a related domain to a particular problem. Improvements in behavioral indicators relevant to the practical domain (e.g., laboratory measures of cognitive functioning, health status, or subjective well-being) may be considered interim goals. However, the end-point is improvement in functioning in the practical domain itself. One highly desirable feature of the Centers will be a focus on special populations of older people. The size of minority older populations has been increasing. The oldest old remain the population at greatest risk for dependency. Older adults who have been identified as developmentally disabled face particular problems in later life. Poor older adults in rural areas have severely limited access to health and general services. These and other special populations who have pressing needs warrant attention from researchers in aging. The focus on investigating a practical problem will require applicants to show familiarity with the practical domain or environment being investigated as well as with relevant aspects of aging research. That familiarity may be achieved by collaboration with specialists in the domain or community, or by prior experience in applying aging research successfully to this domain. Because practical problems will likely cross disciplinary backgrounds and benefit from input from practice professionals as well as researchers, applications that reflect such broad-based expertise are particularly encouraged. The following examples illustrate potential research strategies in a number of different practical domains. These examples are illustrative only. Applications are welcome from all domains that are important to older adults in daily life. o Use principles from human factors or training research to design work environments that accommodate the needs of older workers, or improve competence in critical skills that support independence. o Use perceptual and cognitive theory and methods to derive valid functional tests of competence for work, for driving, and for other safety-related activities. o Apply models of information processing (e.g., discourse analysis, text comprehension, and schema-based remembering) in adulthood to design complex instructional materials such as insurance, medical, and financial forms, medical and pharmacological information leaflets, or on the cognitive processes that subserve decision making about social security, financial, insurance, and medical treatments (research on older persons' decisions about medical treatments have typically focused on the antecedents and consequences, but have not focused on the cognitive processes involved in making the decision). o Use knowledge about age-related declines in working memory, prospective memory, and long-term memory to investigate the relationship between cognitive functioning and health behaviors and to develop interventions to reduce associated risks. Memory declines may place older persons at increased risk of not being able to follow complex medical regimens, keep medical appointments, or remember to take prescribed medications. o Adapt principles of health behavior change to modify health promotion programs for specific older populations or to address conditions affecting older people's health status (e.g., dietary change, exercise, self-help). o Use models of family systems and functioning to guide family oriented interventions for enhancing family capacity to care for older relatives. o Use theories of organizational analysis (e.g., from medical sociology or from industrial or organizational psychology) to enhance the quality of care for older persons and the receptivity of organizations to meeting the needs of older people (e.g., work settings). o Use community organization theory to develop and evaluate community-based programs for older adults that focus on social activities, public service, or educational development. Structure of the Centers Each Center must consist of a) a management core, b) 2-4 component projects, c) 2-4 pilot projects (annually), and d) a dissemination core. A recruitment core is recommended, but not required. Management Core The management core is central to each Center. Activities of the core should include: o providing administrative advice and guidance on possible applications that arise from the research projects, and materially assisting the application of these results; o facilitating collaborative work across the funded projects by coordinating data collection and providing technical support and guidance to the individual projects as needed; o monitoring individual component projects and pilot projects that are part of the Center, assessing the progress, and reassigning resources as needed during the course of the award (Major changes must be approved by the NIA before going into effect.); o initiating and maintaining interactions with relevant community groups (e.g., community boards, businesses, health care facilities) in order to facilitate the conduct of the Center's research projects. The day-to-day running of the management core will be coordinated by the PI of the Center. However, this core should have an Advisory Committee that oversees the functioning of the core and the individual projects. The Advisory Committee should consist of at least five members. The PI of the Center should be the chair of the Advisory Committee. At least one member of the committee should have primary background in the proposed field of application through a service or commercial role in that field. At least one member of the committee should be an experienced researcher from another institution, whose only connection with the Center is through serving on the committee. Individual project leaders may serve on this committee. However, individual project leaders together with the Center PI cannot be a voting majority of the committee. During the first year of the Center, the Advisory Committee should meet at least twice (one of these meetings may be a conference call, but at least one meeting must be in person) to review the research plans and status of current projects. Major changes in individual projects, the deletion of projects, or the addition of new projects should be approved by the NIA prior to taking effect. Reports of these meetings should be prepared and provided to NIA. During the out years of the Center, the PI should send the Advisory Committee program reports and seek advice as needed, with the entire committee or with individual members. At least one meeting with the entire Advisory Committee should be held each year during the outyears, either in person or by conference call. Component Projects All component projects to be conducted during the grant period must be included in the application and will be reviewed by the scientific review group. A component project may start or terminate at any time during the project period, but at least two projects (and not more than four) must be active at all times. If additional outside support is available, the number of component projects may exceed four. The decision regarding the number of component projects should be based on the ability to provide adequate funding to program activities. The PI of the Center must be a PI on one of these component projects, and each component project must have a different PI. The projects should each relate to the central organizing theme of the Center. The Roybal Centers are intended to generate practical outcomes. Therefore, all Centers should propose at least one component project that has a plan for field research. The possible practical outcomes of such work should be clearly stated. It is also anticipated that the majority of projects funded will have an intervention phase. Therefore, applications that do not include an intervention phase must explain why no intervention is appropriate. Interventions that are selected must be based on sound theory, have supporting pilot data and show a methodologically sound plan for evaluation of the intervention. The evaluation should contain a plan to monitor intended effects of the intervention and some means to monitor unintended and negative consequences. Pilot Projects The Center application must provide for funds to initiate small-scale pilot research by both junior and established investigators at their institutions. Funding may not exceed $10,000 direct costs per pilot project. A minimum of two and a maximum of four pilot projects will be funded annually. Pilot projects will receive funds for one year only. The Center application must describe a plan to develop, identify, review, and monitor pilot projects. However, descriptions of the pilot projects should not be included in the application and they will not be evaluated individually. Dissemination Core The practical outcomes generated by the Roybal Centers should be widely disseminated to the research community and general public so that the results can be implemented by others. Therefore, each Center must participate in a program of dissemination of research results. The applicant should address how they will include research dissemination activities, such as newsletter publication, presentations at scientific conferences, publication in scientific outlets (book chapters and articles in refereed journals), publications in popular press (magazines, newspapers, etc.), interface with community agencies and programs, and interviews with electronic media. Also important are planned strategies for translating research findings into practical programs or services. Recruitment Core Because this RFA encourages working with special populations and requires research involving practical situations, conventional methods of recruiting and testing subjects may not always be appropriate. Therefore, applicants may choose to set-aside up to $50,000 direct costs annually to establish and staff a recruitment core. The roles of this core would be to: o liaise with community groups who can assist in recruitment and retention; o consult community groups about planned studies; o recruit and maintain contact with subjects; o assist in making assessment arrangements either in the laboratory or at test sites; o collect standardized demographic information from subjects; o administer any general performance testing battery (Applicants may choose to allocate more than $50,000 to the recruitment core if such performance testing is directly relevant to hypotheses being addressed either by the Center as a whole or by individual projects.); o assist project members in collecting information about subjects from public records; and o support modest payments for participation and transportation to facilitate recruitment and retention of hard-to-reach groups. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS Annual Meeting Investigators are encouraged to request funds to travel once each year to meet with the other investigators who are funded through this RFA. The meetings will be held at the NIH, Bethesda, MD, or at another site agreed to by the PIs and the NIA. The purpose of the meetings is to have investigators working in the same general area share information about research methods and findings. Applicants should include a statement in the application indicating a willingness to participate in such meetings and to cooperate with other researchers in the exchange of data, materials, and ideas. INCLUSION OF WOMEN AND MINORITIES IN RESEARCH INVOLVING HUMAN SUBJECTS It is the policy of the NIH that women and members of minority groups and their subpopulations must be included in all NIH supported biomedical and behavioral research projects involving human subjects, unless a clear and compelling rationale and justification is provided that inclusion is inappropriate with respect to the health of the subjects or the purpose of the research. This policy results from the NIH Revitalization Act of 1993 (section 492B of Public Law 103-43). All investigators proposing research involving human subjects should read the NIH Guidelines for Inclusion of Women and Minorities as Subjects in Clinical Research," published in the Federal Register of March 28, 1994 (FR 59 14508-14513) and in the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts, Vol. 23, No. 11, March 18, 1994. This information is available on the internet at the following URL: http://www.nih.gov LETTER OF INTENT Prospective applicants are asked to submit, by July 24, 1997, a letter of intent that includes identification of all participating investigators and institutions, and a descriptive title. The NIA requests such letters only for the purpose of providing an indication of the number and scope of applications to be received and, therefore, usually does not acknowledge their receipt. A letter of intent is not binding, and it will not enter into the review of any application subsequently submitted, nor is it a necessary requirement for application. The letter of intent is to be sent to: Dr. Jared B. Jobe Behavioral and Social Research National Institute on Aging 7201 Wisconsin Avenue, Room 533, MSC 9205 Bethesda, MD 20892-9205 Telephone: (301) 496-3137 FAX: (301) 402-0051 Email: Jared_Jobe@nih.gov APPLICATION PROCEDURES Prospective applicants are advised to communicate with program and grants management staff as early as possible in the planning phase of application preparation. NIA staff are available to assist applicants to ensure that the objectives, structure, and the budget format for the proposed Center are acceptable. Applications are to be submitted on the grant application form PHS 398 (rev. 5/95) and prepared according to the directions in the application packet, with the exceptions noted below. Application kits are available at most institutional offices of sponsored research and may be obtained from the Division of Extramural Outreach and Information Resources, National Institutes of Health, 6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7910, Bethesda, MD 20892-7910, telephone 301/435-0714, e-mail: asknih@odrockm1.od.nih.gov. The RFA label available in the PHS 398 (rev. 5/95) application form must be affixed to the bottom of the face page of the application. Failure to use this label could result in delayed processing of the application such that it may not reach the review committee in time for review. On the face page of the application: Item 2 Type, "Edward R Roybal Centers for Research on Applied Gerontology." Check the "YES" box. A 10 page limit applies separately for the management core, the recruitment core (if proposed), and the dissemination core. A five page limit applies to the description of the pilot program. A 25 page limit applies separately for each component research project. Complete information, including a budget, must be provided for the management core, each component project, the pilot program, the dissemination core, and the recruitment core (if proposed). For the management core, Section C must describe at least: (1) The major theme and rationale for the Center; (2) the organization of the core; (3) the relation between the core and the individual projects, including oversight responsibilities; (4) the relation between the core and the community or service groups most likely to be affected by the research; and (5) the means by which the core will facilitate application of research results. For each component project, the application should be prepared following the guidelines for a research project contained in the PHS 398 (rev. 5/95). For the pilot program, Section C must describe the Center's plan to (1) develop, (2) identify, (3) select, and (4) monitor pilot projects. For the dissemination core, Section C must describe the plans for (1) newsletters, (2) publications and presentations, (3) interface with community agencies and programs, (4) interface with the media, and (5) strategies for translating research findings into practical programs or services. For the recruitment core, Section C must describe: (1) the nature and characteristics of the proposed recruitment sample(s); (2) any screening instruments used to select people as eligible for the study; (3) any proposed standard batteries of tests that will be administered to the whole sample; and (4) what recruitment and retention procedures will be used to obtain and maintain an adequate sample. Send or deliver the completed application and three signed, exact photocopies in a single package to the following office, making sure that the original application with the RFA label attached is on top. DIVISION OF RESEARCH GRANTS NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH 6701 ROCKLEDGE DRIVE, ROOM 1040 -MSC-7710 BETHESDA, MD 20892-7710 BETHESDA, MD 20817 (for courier/overnight service) At the time of submission, two additional copies of the application must be sent to: Chief, Scientific Review Office National Institute on Aging Gateway Building, Room 2C212 7201 Wisconsin Avenue, MSC 9205 Bethesda, MD 20892-9205 It is important to send these copies at the same time as the original and three copies are sent to the Division of Research Grants. The application must be received by October 24, 1997. REVIEW CONSIDERATIONS Upon receipt, DRG staff will review applications for completeness and NIA staff will review applications for responsiveness. Applications that are incomplete, nonresponsive to this RFA, or exceed the annual direct cost limit of $400,000 direct costs per award in the first year, exclusive of facilities and administrative costs on consortia, will be returned to the applicant without further consideration. Applications that are complete and responsive to the RFA will be evaluated for scientific and technical merit by an appropriate peer review group (IRG) within the NIA, convened in accordance with NIH peer review procedures. As part of the initial merit review, all applications will receive a written critique and undergo a process in which only those applications deemed to have the highest scientific merit, generally the top half of applications under review, will be discussed, and assigned a priority score. Although the review may involve an applicant interview, a request for additional information, or a site visit, the written application submitted should be complete. The second level of review will be provided by the National Advisory Council on Aging. The most important criterion for scientific merit review will be the proposed Center's demonstrated potential to act as a conduit between basic behavioral and social research and applied outcomes. Both the evidence of past involvement in related research and the specific plans for seeking applied outcomes described in the application will be considered part of that potential. The following specific review criteria reflect how these overall goals will be evaluated in the review process. For competing continuation applications, progress on the criteria listed below and future plans will be considered. For new applications, pilot data and future plans will be considered. 1. Overall, the proposed Center will be evaluated for: a) the theoretically and empirically supported rationale for the particular approach to extending basic behavioral and social research into applied areas; b) quality of coordination of center activities around a theme, as described in the cores; c) commitment from the host institution to the research activity and availability of appropriate facilities for the research activities proposed; and d) appropriateness of the budget for the Center. 2. The management core will be evaluated for: a) quality of the evaluation plan for monitoring the effectiveness of proposed interventions; b) leadership ability, relevant experience in appropriate areas, and scientific stature of the PI. The time commitment of the Center PI must be sufficient to show substantial personal supervision of the various activities of the Center. A past history of applying basic behavioral and social research in a relevant area will be an important advantage; and c) qualifications and experience of members of the advisory committee to the Center. 3. The component projects will be evaluated for: a) scientific and technical significance and originality of the component projects. Pilot data will be advantageous; b) appropriateness and adequacy of the experimental approach and methodology proposed by the component projects to carry out the research; and c) qualifications and experience of the component project investigators and appropriateness of their investment of time in the project. 4. The pilot project program will be evaluated on the quality of the plan to develop, solicit, identify, review, monitor, and evaluate the pilot projects. 5. The recruitment core will be evaluated on: a) the adequacy of plans to include both genders and minorities and their subgroups as appropriate for the scientific goals of the research. Plans for the recruitment and retention of subjects will be evaluated; and b) plans to liaise, consult, recruit, and collect data from participants. 6. The dissemination core will be evaluated on the quality of the plans for dissemination activities, such as newsletters, publications and presentations, interface with community agencies and programs, interviews with electronic media, and planned strategies for translating research findings into practical programs or services. The initial review group will also examine the provisions for the protection of human and animal subjects and the safety of the research environment. AWARD CRITERIA Awards will be made on the basis of the availability of funds. Primary weight will be given to the NIH peer review results. Program balance will also be considered. INQUIRIES Inquiries concerning this RFA are encouraged in order to clarify issues or questions. The opportunity to clarify any issues or answer any questions from potential applicants is welcome. Direct inquiries regarding programmatic issues to: Dr. Jared B. Jobe Behavioral and Social Research National Institute on Aging 7201 Wisconsin Avenue, Room 533, MSC 9205 Bethesda, MD 20892-9205 Telephone: (301) 496-3137 FAX: (301) 402-0051 Email: Jared_Jobe@nih.gov Direct inquiries regarding fiscal matters to: Mr. David Reiter Grants and Contracts Management National Institute on Aging 7201 Wisconsin Avenue, Room 2N212, MSC 9205 Bethesda, MD 20892 Telephone: (301) 496-1472 Email: dr36t@nih.gov AUTHORITY AND REGULATIONS This program is described in the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance, Number 93.866. Awards are made under authorization of the Public Health Service Act, Title IV, Part A Section 301 (42 USC 241) and administered under PHS grant policies and Federal Regulations, most specifically at 42 CFR Part 52 and 45 CFR Parts 74 and 92. Special Terms of Awards applying to projects funded in response to this RFA are in addition to, and not in lieu of, otherwise applicable OMB administrative guidelines, HHS grant administrative regulations at 45 CFR Parts 74 and 92, and other HHS, PHS, and NIH grant administration policies. Awardees will maintain custody of, and primary rights to, their data developed under their awards, subject to Government rights of access, consistent with current HHS, PHS, and NIH policies. This program is not subject to the intergovernmental review requirements of Executive Order 12372 or Health Systems Agency review. The PHS strongly encourages all grant and contract recipients to provide a smoke-free workplace and promote the non-use of all tobacco products. In addition, Public Law 103-227, the Pro-Children Act of 1994, prohibits smoking in certain facilities (or in some cases, any portion of a facility) in which regular or routine education, library, day care, health care or early childhood development services are provided to children. This is consistent with the PHS mission to protect and advance the physical and mental health of the American people. From owner-sci-resources@net.bio.net Wed May 07 23:00:00 1997 Path: biosci!biosci!not-for-mail From: BIOSCI Administrator Newsgroups: bionet.sci-resources Subject: NIH GUIDE - RFA DK-97-002 - V26(14) 05/02/97 Date: 8 May 1997 14:00:50 -0700 Organization: BIOSCI International Newsgroups for Molecular Biology Lines: 457 Sender: daemon@net.bio.net Approved: biosci-help@net.bio.net Distribution: world Message-ID: <5kteu2$n1@net.bio.net> NNTP-Posting-Host: net.bio.net UROLOGY RESEARCH CENTERS NIH GUIDE, Volume 26, Number 14, May 2, 1997 RFA: DK 97-002 P.T. 04; K.W. 0785220, 0710030, 0785055, 0745027, 0745070 National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases National Cancer Institute Letter of Intent Receipt Date: August 25, 1997 Application Receipt Date: September 24, 1997 PURPOSE This Request for Applications (RFA) invites investigators to submit research grant applications for the George M. O'Brien Research Centers Program. The emphases for this program are to: (1) attract new scientific expertise into the study of the basic mechanisms of urological diseases and disorders; (2) encourage multidisciplinary research focused on the causes of these diseases and disorders; and (3) extend the development of innovative clinical and epidemiologic studies of the causes, therapy and possible prevention of urological diseases and disorders. In approaching the study of these disease processes, it is anticipated that extensive collaboration will be required between individuals in the clinical and basic sciences, including for example investigators with training and expertise in cell biology, molecular biology, immunology, genetics, epidemiology, biochemistry, physiology, and pathology. It is the express intent of this RFA to attract new investigators not currently active in this field and to explore new basic areas that may have clinical research applications. Individual institutions with both basic and clinical research capabilities are eligible to apply. Interinstitutional collaborative research arrangements are also appropriate and encouraged. Coordination for such arrangements must be evident and clearly meaningful and appropriate for the research proposed. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) plans to provide support for this initiative in the area of prostate cancer. Studies to be supported include the full range from laboratory to clinical investigations encompassing biology, etiology, detection, diagnosis, treatment, prevention and control. Of particular interest is multidisciplinary research that links basic research to applied settings involving patients and populations. HEALTHY PEOPLE 2000 The Public Health Service (PHS) is committed to achieving the health promotion and disease prevention objectives of "Healthy People 2000," a PHS-led national activity for setting priority areas. Potential applicants may obtain a copy of "Healthy People 2000" (Full Report: Stock No. 017-001-00474-0 or Summary Report: Stock No. 017-001-00473-1) through the Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402-9325 (telephone: 202/512-1800). ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Applications may be submitted by domestic for-profit and non-profit organizations, public and private, such as universities, colleges, hospitals, laboratories, units of State and local governments, and eligible agencies of the Federal government. Racial/ethnic minority individuals, women, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply as Principal Investigators. Foreign institutions are not eligible to apply. MECHANISM OF SUPPORT Support of this program will be through the NIH specialized center (P50) award. Responsibility for the planning, direction, and execution of the proposed project will be solely that of the applicant. Awards will be administered under PHS grants policy as stated in the PHS Grants Policy Statement. Applicants from institutions that have a General Clinical Research Center (GCRC) funded by the NIH National Center for Research Resources may wish to identify the GCRC as a resource for conducting the proposed research. If so, a letter of agreement from either the GCRC program director or principal investigator should be included with the application. FUNDS AVAILABLE The NCI and NIDDK expect to award up to four center grants (P50) for research into urologic disorders in fiscal year 1998. The anticipated awards are for five years and are contingent upon the availability of appropriated funds. The total amount of available funds to support this program is anticipated to be no more than $2.75 million per year. No applicant may request more than $750,000 in total costs (including both direct and indirect costs) in the initial budget period. A standard escalation factor may be used for subsequent budget periods. Three competing continuation applications are anticipated in response to this RFA. The budget for the first year of a competing continuation application may be increased by 10% above the direct cost of the last issued noncompetitive (Type 5) award. In all cases, budgets are not to exceed the $750,000 total cost cap. RESEARCH OBJECTIVES Urologic diseases and disorders place a substantial burden on individuals and on society in the United States. Urinary tract infections had a direct hospital and physician cost of over $4 billion in 1990. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (over $2 billion), stone disease (over $1 billion), and bladder disorders (over $1 billion) are disorders whose costs exceed $1 billion annually. These diseases and disorders threaten the health, well-being, and longevity of millions of Americans. Although considerable progress has been made in understanding the basic physiology and pathophysiology of the normal urologic systems, there has been only limited progress in unraveling the mechanisms of those processes that lead to progressive deterioration in the function of these systems. Nevertheless, major progress has been made in the management of their clinical consequences. For example, the clinical management of benign prostatic hyperplasia has improved over the past several years. Unfortunately, these scientific and medical advances have not led to the means to prevent or reverse the consequences of these diseases and disorders; moreover, their incidence is steadily increasing. The proposed multidisciplinary research centers should help to provide an environment for investigators to apply the necessary and appropriate expertise to topical areas of research related to the pathogenesis of urologic diseases such as immunologically mediated diseases, diabetes mellitus and other endocrine and metabolic disorders, genetic abnormalities, bladder physiology and pathophysiology, and developmental and obstructive disorders. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in U.S. males and is the second leading cause of cancer death in men. Mortality due to prostate cancer is two-fold higher in U.S black men than U.S. white men. Costs attributable to this disease exceed $1 billion annually. The disease results annually in a quarter of a million hospitalizations as well as more than 40,000 deaths. The report from the meeting "NCI Roundtable on Prostate Cancer: Future Research Directions" (Reported in Cancer Research, 51: 2498, 1991) contains information and recommendations defining areas of research that could advance the understanding and management of prostate cancer. Potential applicants requesting support for this area of research are urged to acquaint themselves with the report. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS Successful applicants are expected to attend a yearly meeting of Center Directors convened by the NIDDK. Funds to support travel to this meeting may be requested in the budget proposed for the center. INCLUSION OF WOMEN AND MINORITIES IN RESEARCH INVOLVING HUMAN SUBJECTS It is the policy of the NIH that women and members of minority groups and their sub-populations must be included in all NIH supported biomedical and behavioral research projects involving human subjects, unless a clear and compelling rationale and justification is provided that inclusion is inappropriate with respect to the health of the subjects or the purpose of the research. This policy results from the NIH Revitalization Act of 1993 (Section 492B of Public Law 103-43). All investigators proposing research involving human subjects should read the "NIH Guidelines For Inclusion of Women and Minorities as Subjects in Clinical Research," which have been published in the Federal Register of March 20, 1994 (FR 59 14508-14513), and in the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts Vol. 23, No. 11, March 18, 1994. LETTER OF INTENT Prospective applicants are asked to submit, by August 25, 1997, a letter of intent that includes a descriptive title of the proposed research; the name, address, and telephone number of the Principal Investigator; the identities of other key personnel and participating institutions; and the number and title of the RFA in response to which the application may be submitted. Although a letter of intent is not required, is not binding, and does not enter into the review of a subsequent application, the information that it contains allows NIDDK staff to estimate the potential review workload and avoid conflict of interest in the review. The letter of intent is to be sent to: Chief, Review Branch Division of Extramural Activities National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases 45 Center Drive, Room 6AS-37F - MSC 6600 Bethesda, MD 20892-6600 Telephone: (301) 594-8885 FAX: (301) 480-3505 APPLICATION PROCEDURES The research grant application form PHS 398 (5/95) is to be used in applying for these grants. Applications kits are available at most institutional offices of sponsored research and may be obtained from the Division of Extramural Outreach and Information Resources, National Institutes of Health, 6701 Rockledge Drive, MSC 7910, Bethesda, MD 20892-7910, telephone 301/435-0714, email: ASKNIH@odrockm1.od.nih.gov. The RFA label available in the PHS 398 (rev. 5/95) application form must be affixed to the bottom of the face page of the application. Failure to use this label could result in delayed processing of the application such that it may not reach the review committee in time for review. In addition, the RFA title and number must be typed on line 2 of the face page of the application form and the YES box must be marked. Submit a signed, typewritten original of the application, including the Checklist, plus three signed photocopies, in one package to: DIVISION OF RESEARCH GRANTS NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH 6701 ROCKLEDGE DRIVE, ROOM 1040 - MSC 7710 BETHESDA, MD 20892-7710 BETHESDA, MD 20817 (for express/courier service) At time of submission, two additional copies of the application must be sent to: Chief, Review Branch Division of Extramural Activities National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases 45 Center Drive, Room 6AS 37-E - MSC 6600 Bethesda, MD 20892-6600 Applications must be received by September 24, 1997. If an application is received after that date, it will be returned to the applicant without review. Applicants must follow the NIDDK Program Project Grants Guidelines (July 1996) for Preparation of the Grant Application, Chapter 3. Copies of the Guidelines are available from the Program Director listed under INQUIRIES. Each Research Project proposed (Section F - NIDDK Guidelines) is limited to 25 pages of text. Applications should include the following: A Table of Contents. A Rationale for the Proposed Center and a Statement of Objectives. Institutional Environment and Resources. Organization and Administrative Structure of the Center. Specific Managerial Responsibilities for the Center. Travel funds in the proposed budget for an annual meeting of Center Directors. A description of the method for the replacement of the Center Director (should the need arise). A description of the proposed research projects. A description of the proposed cores. A description of the procedure to be used for the addition/deletion of cores and projects during the proposed period of operation. A description of the administrative relationship of the Center to the applicant institution. REVIEW CONSIDERATIONS Upon receipt, applications will be initially reviewed for completeness and responsiveness. Incomplete or non-responsive applications will be returned to the applicant without further consideration. Evaluation for responsiveness to the program requirements and criteria stated in the RFA is an NIDDK and NCI staff function. Those applications that are complete and responsive will be evaluated in accordance with the criteria stated below for scientific and technical merit by an appropriate peer review group convened by the NIDDK. In cases where the number of applications is large compared to the number of awards to be made, a preliminary scientific peer review may be conducted and applications withdrawn from further competition when they are not competitive for the award. The NIDDK will notify the applicant and institutional official of this action. Following this review, the applications will be given a secondary review by the NIDDK Advisory Council unless not recommended for further consideration by the initial review group. The review criteria for individual research projects include: The scientific, technical or medical significance and originality of the proposed research. The feasibility and adequacy of the experimental design. The degree to which projects link basic and clinical research. The qualifications and research experience of the proposed personnel. The availability of resources necessary for the research. The appropriateness of the budget and timetable in relation to the scope of the proposed research. The review criteria for scientific cores include: The appropriateness and utility of the core to the proposed Center. The quality of the proposed facilities or services including administrative arrangements for utilizing the core. The qualifications, experience, and commitment of the personnel involved in the core. The appropriateness of the budget. Note: Each core unit must provide facilities or services to at least two research projects recommended for approval. The review criteria for the overall Center program include: The scientific merit of the program as a whole. The significance of the overall goals of the Center. The cohesiveness and multidisciplinary scope of the Center and the coordination and interrelationship of the projects and cores to the common theme of the Center. The leadership, scientific expertise, and commitment of the proposed Center Director. Administrative Considerations include: The institutional environment for and resources available to Center investigators. The institutional commitment to the proposed Center. The administrative leadership necessary to provide for the quality control of supported projects in the Center, the allocation of funds, and the ability to foster communication and cooperation among Center investigators. The appropriateness of the budget in relation to the proposed activities of the Center. The adequacy of addressing the protection of human subjects, animal welfare, and biohazard issues. Adequacy of plans to include both genders(if applicable) and minorities and their subgroups as appropriate for the scientific goals of the research. Plans for the recruitment and retention of subjects will also be evaluated. Competing Continuation Applications: Applicants must follow the NIDDK Program Project Grants Guidelines (July 1996) for preparation of the Grant Application, Chapter 4, Part B and Part C. Copies of the Guidelines are available from the Program Director listed under INQUIRIES. For the purposes of this RFA a distinction between a P50 grant and a P01 grant is made as follows: Research projects supported by the P50 center award are of uniformly high scientific merit, and are generally related to central issues in urologic diseases and disorders. Each project should be directed to the development of fundamental knowledge leading to understanding disease processes and the design of curative or preventative strategies. The P50 grant mechanism provides an opportunity to approach multidisciplinary basic research in a synergistic fashion. Close cooperation, communication, and collaboration among all center personnel of many professional disciplines are characteristics of a successful P50 center. In comparison, each research project of the P01 Program Project Grant must contribute to or be directly related to a clearly defined central unifying theme of the total research effort. The projects should demonstrate essential elements of unity and interdependence. AWARD CRITERIA The anticipated date of award is September 1, 1998. Factors that will be taken into consideration in making awards include the scientific merit of the proposed Center as determined by peer review and the availability of funds. Schedule Letter of Intent Receipt Date: August 25, 1997 Application Receipt Date: September 24, 1997 Initial Review: February - April 1998 Second Level Review: May 1998 Anticipated Date of Award: September 1, 1998 INQUIRIES Written and telephone inquiries concerning this RFA are encouraged. The opportunity to clarify any issues or questions from potential applicants is welcome. Inquiries regarding non-cancer programmatic issues may be directed to: Ralph L. Bain, Ph.D. Division of Kidney, Urologic, and Hematologic Diseases National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases 45 Center Drive, Room 6AS-19 - MSC 6600 Bethesda, MD 20892-6600 Telephone: (301) 594-7717 FAX: (301) 480-3510 Email: bainr@ep.niddk.nih.gov Inquiries regarding cancer-related programmatic issues may be directed to: Andrew Chiarodo, Ph.D. Division of Cancer Biology, Diagnosis and Centers National Cancer Institute Executive Plaza North, Suite 512 Bethesda, MD 20892 Telephone: (301) 496-8528 Email: chiaroda@dcbdep1.nci.nih.gov Inquiries regarding fiscal matters may be directed to: Ms. Helen Ling Division of Extramural Activities National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases 45 Center Drive, MSC 6600 Bethesda, MD 20892-6600 Telephone: (301) 594-8857 FAX: (301) 480-3504 Email: lingh@ep.niddk.nih.gov AUTHORITY AND REGULATIONS This program is described in the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance No. 93.849. Awards are made under authorization of the Public Health Service Act, Title IV, Part A (Public Law 78-410, as amended by Public Law 99-158, 42 USC 241 and 285) and administered under PHS grants policies and Federal Regulations 42 CFR 52 and 45 CFR Part 74. This program is not subject to the intergovernmental review requirements of Executive Order 12372 or Health Systems Agency review. The PHS strongly encourages all grant and contract recipients to provide a smoke-free workplace and promote the non-use of all tobacco products. In addition, Public Law 103-227, the Pro-Children Act of 1994, prohibits smoking in certain facilities (or in some cases, any portion of a facility) in which regular or routine education, library, day care, health care or early childhood development services are provided to children. This is consistent with the PHS mission to protect and advance the physical and mental health of the American people. From owner-sci-resources@net.bio.net Wed May 07 23:00:00 1997 Path: biosci!biosci!not-for-mail From: BIOSCI Administrator Newsgroups: bionet.sci-resources Subject: NIH Guide, vol. 26, no. 14, pt. 1of1, 2 May 1997 Date: 8 May 1997 14:00:27 -0700 Organization: BIOSCI International Newsgroups for Molecular Biology Lines: 798 Sender: daemon@net.bio.net Approved: biosci-help@net.bio.net Distribution: world Message-ID: <5ktetb$m9@net.bio.net> NNTP-Posting-Host: net.bio.net NIH GUIDE - Vol. 26, No. 14 - May 2, 1997 $$INDEX BEGIN ******************************************************* NOTICES $$INDEX N1 ********************************************************** FUNDING STRATEGIES FOR FY 1997 National Institutes of Health INDEX: NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH NOTICES OF AVAILABILITY (RFPs/RFAs/PAs) $$INDEX R1 06/13/97 ************************************************* MALE GERM CELL GROWTH AND DIFFERENTIATION (RFA HD-97-004) National Institute of Child Health and Human Development INDEX: CHILD HEALTH, HUMAN DEVELOPMENT $$INDEX R2 07/15/97 ************************************************* COLLABORATIVE MINORITY ALCOHOL RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (RFA AA-97-006) National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism INDEX: ALCOHOL ABUSE, ALCOHOLISM $$INDEX R3 08/25/97 ************************************************* NHLBI MENTORED RESEARCH SCIENTIST DEVELOPMENT AWARD FOR MINORITY FACULTY (RFA HL-97-006) National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute INDEX: HEART, LUNG, BLOOD $$INDEX R4 08/25/97 ************************************************* MINORITY INSTITUTION FACULTY MENTORED RESEARCH SCIENTIST DEVELOPMENT AWARD (RFA HL-97-007) National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute INDEX: HEART, LUNG, BLOOD $$INDEX R5 08/25/97 ************************************************* NHLBI SHORT-TERM RESEARCH TRAINING FOR MINORITY STUDENTS PROGRAM (RFA HL-97-008) National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute INDEX: HEART, LUNG, BLOOD $$INDEX R6 08/25/97 ************************************************* NHLBI MINORITY INSTITUTIONAL RESEARCH TRAINING PROGRAM (RFA HL-97-009) National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute INDEX: HEART, LUNG, BLOOD $$INDEX R7 09/24/97 ************************************************* KIDNEY RESEARCH CENTERS (RFA DK-97-001) National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases INDEX: DIABETES, DIGESTIVE, KIDNEY DISEASES $$INDEX R8 09/24/97 ************************************************* UROLOGY RESEARCH CENTERS (RFA DK-97-002) National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases National Cancer Institute INDEX: DIABETES, DIGESTIVE, KIDNEY DISEASES; CANCER $$INDEX R9 10/24/97 ************************************************* EDWARD R. ROYBAL CENTERS FOR RESEARCH ON APPLIED GERONTOLOGY (RFA AG-97-005) National Institute on Aging INDEX: AGING The NIH GUIDE is available electronically via LISTSERV subscription, and is also on the nih gopher (gopher.nih.gov) and the NIH web site (http://www.nih.gov). Alternative access is available through the NIH Grant Line via modem (data line 301/402-2221); contact Dr. John James at 301/435-2801 for details on the NIH Grant Line. All competing (new, renewal, amended (revised) applications for grants, cooperative agreements, and fellowships from the National Institutes of Health must be sent to: DIVISION OF RESEARCH GRANTS NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH 6701 ROCKLEDGE DRIVE, ROOM 1040 - MSC 7710 BETHESDA, MD 20892-7710 BETHESDA, MD 20817 (for express/courier service) INQUIRIES ABOUT THE NOTICES, PAS, AND RFAS IN THIS PUBLICATION SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO THE NIH STAFF MEMBER IDENTIFIED AT THE END OF EACH ITEM. THE PHS STRONGLY ENCOURAGES ALL GRANT AND CONTRACT RECIPIENTS TO PROVIDE A SMOKE-FREE WORKPLACE AND PROMOTE THE NON-USE OF ALL TOBACCO PRODUCTS. IN ADDITION, PUBLIC LAW 103-227, THE PRO-CHILDREN ACT OF 1994, PROHIBITS SMOKING IN CERTAIN FACILITIES (OR IN SOME CASES, ANY PORTION OF A FACILITY) IN WHICH REGULAR OR ROUTINE EDUCATION, LIBRARY, DAY CARE, HEALTH CARE OR EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT SERVICES ARE PROVIDED TO CHILDREN. THIS IS CONSISTENT WITH THE PHS MISSION TO PROTECT AND ADVANCE THE PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE. $$INDEX END ********************************************************* NOTICES $$N1 BEGIN NOT-97-005 FULL-TEXT ************************************* FUNDING STRATEGIES FOR FY 1997 NIH Guide, Volume 26, Number 14, May 2, 1997 P.T. 34; K.W. 1014006 National Institutes of Health The information provided below will guide the NIH Institutes and Centers (IC) in their funding decisions on Research Project Grants in FY 1997. Research Projects are primarily investigator-initiated basic science research, including R01s, R03s, R29s, P01s and U01s. This group does not include SBIR/STTR awards. The core principles, which are not specifically associated with FY 97, remain essentially the same as in recent years. The funding strategies reflect some changes due to the FY 97 appropriation level and associated congressional directives. Core Principles 1. Grants will be awarded on the basis of reasonable and allowable costs consonant with the principles of sound cost management and in consideration of Institute or Center priorities, constraints on the growth of average grant costs, and the availability of funds. 2. The award of noncompeting research project grants at committed levels continues to be the cornerstone of the NIH Financial Management Plan and is the basis of the plan~s credibility with the scientific community and Congress. 3. Determination of commitments for future years must take into consideration stability of support for investigators, optimum portfolio balance, and opportunities to address emerging problems. Fiscal Year 1997 Funding Strategies 1. The direct cost level for the future years of FY 1997 new and competing continuation awards, on the average, will not exceed the direct cost level of the previous budget period by more than 3 percent. The 4 percent adjustment factor used to calculate future year direct costs for grants made prior to FY 97 will remain in effect (see 2. below). NIH staff may make exceptions for specifically justified programmatic requirements and one-time, non- recurring costs such as equipment. 2. For noncompeting grants, every effort will be made to make awards at the committed levels. If fiscal conditions in an IC are such that funding at the committed levels is not possible, the IC will consult with the Deputy Director for Extramural Research, NIH, to determine an appropriate resolution. 3. For competing grants, budgetary reductions from the requested level will be achieved through a combination of initial review and Council/Board recommendations, staff review for cost allocability, allowability, and reasonableness, and programmatic adjustments to arrive at an appropriate funding level. Each IC will develop a plan that specifies the general rationale and methodology for adjustments based on programmatic considerations. This plan will be available as part of the IC official program file. 4. Based on adjustments to the project, IC staff, in consultation with the principal investigator, will decide if a new statement of specific aims is required. When reductions are 25% or more below the IRG recommended level, staff will obtain a revised statement of specific aims, a revised budget and/or revised timetable, as appropriate for the project, which must be approved and countersigned by the institution, and approved by program and grants management staff. This material serves as documentation of budgetary and programmatic adjustments described in this paragraph and in item (3) above. To ensure initial review group understanding of the modified scope of a funded project, the approved statement of revised aims should be submitted by the investigator in competing continuation grant applications. 5. For competing continuation grants, one factor in arriving at the award amount will be the level of support in prior years and the extent to which the IC can permit growth within the existing constraints on average costs. 6. The average length of research project grants will not exceed four years. 7. In making funding decisions, ICs will consider the total costs of a grant, especially for those grants near the IC funding payline. INQUIRIES For further information, contact the Grants Management Specialist or Health Scientist Administrator responsible for your award. Their names and telephone numbers are indicated on the Notice of Grant Award. $$N1 END ************************************************************ NOTICES OF AVAILABILITY (RFPs/RFAs/PAs) $$R1 BEGIN HD-97-004 FULL-TEXT ************************************** MALE GERM CELL GROWTH AND DIFFERENTIATION NIH GUIDE, Volume 26, Number 14, May 2, 1997 RFA AVAILABLE: HD-97-004 P.T. 34; K.W. 1002017, 0413002 National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Letter of Intent Receipt Date: May 30, 1997 Application Receipt Date: June 13, 1997 PURPOSE The National Institute of Child Health and Human Develo