Grant Proposal How To
Below is an easy, step by step process for the novice researcher who would like to submit a Grant Proposal. ACP is dedicated to the advancement of vein care and we encourage everyone to apply for any of our grants or awards.
- Before you start, you should ask yourself the following questions:
Is it a good time to start this project? Is it premature?
Prepare for the grant writing process and allow yourself 2 to 3 months to write it.
Have you arranged time with colleagues/mentors who are willing to review your proposal? Allow 4-6 weeks for review time.
Will I need Institutional Review Board (IRB) Approval?
What is my timeline for completion?
- Organize your proposal in a logical fashion.
While there are different ways to go, once it is determined that a concept is worth further investigation, than a research protocol is developed. ***Research protocol will include title page, an abstract, method and materials, and experimental method. The research protocol will be submitted along with a list of personnel and background information(CV’s), budgetary information, an appendix filled with raw data and references. It would be good to include a timeline, with consideration for Institutional Review Board approval (if needed). Be sure that the outline is clear and well organized -- use subheadings where possible. Make sure the significance of the topic is EXPLICITLY stated. You may want to state where the gaps in knowledge exist in the field that your results will address.***Research Protocol:
Abstract: historical and background information on the problem to be investigated. How it was done in the past what is proposed, why the proposed method might be better how it will impact care and the PURPOSE of this project
Method and Materials: this section describes the populations involved equipment used data collected. Brief summary of the study sequence.
Experimental Method: is an in depth explanation of how the project is to be conducted. Basically the test subjects flow though the project and exactly what you are going to do to each subject through every phase of the project. Be Specific. For instance if you are going to preform diagnostic ultrasound as part of the project the exact procedure and diagnostic parameters are included in this section. How the data will be recorded and analyzed as well as study end point also is included in this section. Sample data sheets need to be included as well.
- Articulate the purpose for the grant in a clear way.
Scientists, because of their rational mindsets, can sometimes have problems communicating with laypeople. When you write these sections, keep the technical language to a minimum and use more common language.
Do the aims address interesting and significant issues?
Are they hypothesis-based?
Are they "win-win" - i.e., will an outcome consistent with the null hypothesis still be a contribution to the field?
- Describe the facilities in which the work will be done.
You have to prove that your laboratory has the manpower and resources to actually accomplish what you have described in your plans. It may help to get recommendations from other esteemed scientists to bolster the reputation of your lab. Additionally, you may want to check with your institution/lab/hospital to make sure there isn’t a formal review process that looks at scientific merit of research protocol. (Some may require an additional review.)
- Inspire the reader with emotional logic, in addition to the reason you employ. While the scientific part of your proposal is the most important thing, there is certainly an opportunity for you to stir the imagination. Begin or end your proposal with a brief mission statement, such as "Each year, thousands of families must deal with the pain caused by the complications of diabetes. The work we are doing will lead the way in the treatment of diabetes and related diseases."
- Demonstrate that you have explored alternatives to your approach. Grant agencies want to see that you have not arrived at your methodology by accident and that you have done a lot of thought beforehand. The National Science Foundation advises you to detail the "intellectual merit of the activity" in addition to its "broader impacts."
- Verify that you have provided all the information required by the specific agency. Some agencies may require information that is different from what others request. Follow up with a letter or phone call to ensure that the application is not missing any information.