Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative Applications for Pilot Awards
Launched in 2006, SFARI is a scientific initiative within the Simons Foundation’s suite of programs, with a mission to improve the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) by funding innovative research of the highest quality and relevance.
SFARI invites applications for Pilot Awards from individuals who will conduct bold, imaginative, rigorous, and relevant research for exploratory ideas in the autism field considered higher risk but with the potential for transformative results, particularly those with novel hypotheses for autism. This funding mechanism is particularly suitable for investigators new to the autism field, though applicants are encouraged to consult with experts in autism research to ensure their projects are relevant to the human condition.
In particular, applications that propose research to link genetic or other ASD risk factors to molecular, cellular, circuit, or behavioral mechanisms and set the stage for development of novel interventions are encouraged. As with other pilot projects, proposals in human subjects should be relevant, novel, exploratory, high-risk, and with the potential for transformative results. They may test new mechanisms, employ new technology or analytics, or take innovative approaches to phenotyping or stratification that stand to move the field forward in transformative ways.
The total budget of a pilot award is $300,000 or less, including 20 percent indirect costs, over a period of up to two years. Projects proposing research in human subjects may request a higher budget (up to $500,000 over 2 years), but must include a compelling justification, particularly for the required level of effort of all key personnel.
To be eligible, applicants must hold a PhD, MD, or equivalent degree and have a faculty position or the equivalent at a college, university, medical school, or other research facility.
For complete program guidelines and application instructions, see the SFARI website.
Submissions to this sponsor/donor are managed by the Office of Corporate and Foundation Relations. Please contact your unit-assigned ASUF Director of Development or Research Advancement Specialist at your earliest convenience to ensure ASU's strategic coordination and management of funding applications.