PRISMS Summer Research Project Grant

The PRISMS Summer Research Project Grant exists to help support developing scientists and researchers pursue meaningful research projects that will both provide the trainee a valuable early-career experience and help move the needle forward in SMS research.

Applications can be made directly by the trainee or by their research mentor. Mentors may apply without a specific trainee secured at the time of application. Trainees may include students at all levels and postdoctoral trainees. PRISMS anticipates funding 1 or 2 projects for the summer of 2025.

Projects chosen for funding will be expected to provide a progress report by August 1, 2025, and a summary of the project outcomes by October 1, 2025. Each summary should include information about the research study that can be released to the public to share with the PRISMS community. Grantees will also be asked to present their research study findings at the next PRISMS Research Symposium, September 25-26, 2025.

Timeline:

  • Applications due March 1, 2025
  • Grant recipients will be informed by April 1, 2025
  • Mid-Project report due August 1, 2025
  • Summary reports from recipients due October 1, 2025. Reports should include a written report and a video presentation suitable for layperson audience.

Guidelines & considerations:

  • Research areas may include but are not limited to basic science and clinical research.
  • Applicants may also consider experiences of individuals with SMS, siblings, caregivers/parents and family challenges.
  • Applicants should be current undergraduate or graduate students and overseen by a mentor for such project.
  • The Smith-Magenis Syndrome Patient Registry, (SMSPR), is a valuable resource that may be used to glean information and as a foundation for the project.
  • Mid-Project and Final reports should be no longer than two pages, single spaced and detail the progress and outcomes of the project within the specified time frame.
  • All applicants must submit a CV and include the CV of their mentor.
  • Applicants must include a protocol approval letter.
  • Necessary documents must be uploaded into one single pdf document.
  • Only website submissions will be accepted.

Full applications should include the following information:

Title of research project: Choose a title that is descriptive and specific, not general.

Applicant(s): Provide name, degree(s), title(s), and affiliation(s) of both the trainee and the mentor(s) working on the project.

Contact information: Provide applicant mailing address (including institution, department, etc.), telephone number, and email address.

Budget: Indicate the total dollar amount ($US) requested (maximum allowable request is $4,000).

Will this project require access to SMS Patient Registry data?

Human subjects and informed consent: If your project involves human subjects research or animal models, indicate plan and timeline for ethics committee approval. Relevant existing IRB or animal use approvals should be attached.

To apply for the PRISMS Summer Research Project Grant, please go to the Summer Research Project Grant Application page for more details on how to apply. Reminder – grant application are due by March 1, 2025, and grant recipients will be notified by April 1, 2025.