Pilot Projects Core

University Of Minnesota, Minneapolis MN

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY: Pilot Projects Core The primary goal of our Center for Neural Circuits in Addiction is to extend and enhance the research capabilities of NIH-funded addiction research projects at the University of Minnesota (UMN). The Center Research Cores: Viral Innovation Core (VIC), Addiction Neural Dynamics Core (ANDC), Structural Circuits Core (SCC) and Addiction Connectome Core (ACC) provide extensive technical expertise and infrastructure to individual investigators. To complement these efforts, the Pilot Project Core (PPC) provides necessary means to foster new research and interactions by selecting and funding innovative projects that can synergistically combine the capabilities of the Research Cores to push the envelope in neural circuit research. The PPC, led by Center Director, Dr. Thomas, engages a panel of Center faculty and External Advisors (i.e. the Pilot Panel) who review proposals and present finalists to the Steering Committee for final determination. Following consultation with the Center's external scientific advisors, five to ten projects will be funded each fiscal year. Proposals are reviewed in accordance with standard NIH review criteria (significance, innovation, rigor and feasibility), must utilize at least one Center Research Core, and address one or more of the following priorities: 1) ESIs; 2) New entrants to addiction research; 3) Demonstrate translational potential; 4) Engage a team of PIs who have not previously collaborated with one another; 5) Use Research Cores in a novel way; and/or 6) Develop substantial new capabilities for one or more Research Cores. Finally, in conjunction with the Administrative Core, the PPC facilitates research dissemination so that Center members have the opportunity on a regular basis to see specific applications of Research Core functions with the intention of stimulating creative new uses for these functions and new collaborations. The Specific Aim of the PPC is to maintain the Pilot Research Program, with new projects selected each year, starting with our next five projects. Each of these is described in our Research Strategy. The proposed project PIs include four early-stage investigators, two new collaborative teams, two trainees, and one new entrant to addiction research. Proposed awards are $30k over a period of up to two years.