PRISMS Summer Research Project Grant

Program Overview

The PRISMS Summer Research Project Grant supports emerging scientists and researchers pursuing impactful projects that advance understanding and treatment of Smith-Magenis Syndrome (SMS). The program provides early-career research training while contributing meaningful progress to the SMS scientific community.

PRISMS anticipates funding at least two projects for Summer 2026, with a maximum allowable funding per project of $4,000.

Eligibility

Applications may be submitted by:

  • A trainee directly
  • A research mentor (a trainee does not need to be secured at the time of application)

Eligible trainees include:

  • Undergraduate students
  • Graduate students
  • Postdoctoral fellows

All projects must be conducted under the supervision of a qualified research mentor.

Research Scope

Proposed projects may include, but are not limited to:

  • Basic science research
  • Clinical research
  • Natural history and patient-centered studies
  • Family, caregiver, and sibling experiences
  • Quality-of-life and behavioral research

Applicants are encouraged to consider leveraging the
Smith-Magenis Syndrome Patient Registry (SMSPR) as a data resource or study foundation.

Applicants requiring registry access must provide IRB approval from their institution.

Program Requirements & Deliverables

Funded projects will be required to submit:

Mid-Project Progress Report

  • Due August 7, 2026
  • Maximum 2 pages, single-spaced

Final Project Summary

  • Due October 1, 2026
  • Maximum 2 pages, single-spaced
  • Must include:
    • Scientific project summary
    • Acknowledgment of funding support from the PRISMS Summer Research Project Grant is required for any presentation or publication resulting from the funded project.
    • Lay-language report suitable for public sharing
    • Video presentation/PRISMS webinar for a lay audience

Project Information Sharing

  • Grantees will present findings at a PRISMS webinar and on the PRISMS website.

Application Materials

Applicants must submit a single PDF containing:

  • Project proposal
  • Applicant CV
  • Mentor CV
  • Protocol approval letter
  • IRB approval (if accessing SMSPR)

Acknowledgment of PRISMS funding in resulting publications or presentations is required.

All funding disbursements must occur in 2026.

Funding Notes

  • Funding does not cover conference travel or lodging
  • Mentors may apply before identifying a trainee
  • Payment schedule aligns with 2026 grant period

Program Timeline

Milestone Date
Application Deadline February 28, 2026
Recipient Notification April 8, 2026
Mid-Project Report Due August 7, 2026
Final Summary Due October 1, 2026

To apply for the PRISMS Summer Research Project Grant, please go to the Summer Research Project Grant Application page.

Reminder – grant application due by February 28, 2026, and grant recipients will be notified by April 8, 2026.