Pilot Projects

The UNE Center of Biomedical Research Excellence (COBRE) for the Study of Pain and Sensory Function was established in 2012 through funding from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS). The Center’s mission is to significantly contribute to the scientific understanding of the neurobiology of chronic pain. The annual pilot project awards aid in this mission by supporting new projects at UNE in the field of sensory and pain research. This award also helps build the neuroscience research community at UNE. To date, three of these pilot projects have led to extramural awards.

Application Deadlines and Information

The Center will soon be accepting proposals for 2022 Pilot Projects. Proposals should be aimed at acquiring preliminary data for NIH R01/R15/R21/SBIR/STTR or comparable grant applications and for publication in peer-reviewed journals. Studies should utilize the COBRE Histology and Imaging Core and/or Behavior Core facilities.

Projects may request up to $25,000 per year for a maximum of two years with the earliest start date of June 1, 2022. Continuation of funding after the first year is contingent upon success in meeting project goals and approval of COBRE External Advisory Board. Proposals will be reviewed by a study section which will make funding recommendations to the External Advisory Board. All applications will require approval by NIH prior to funding. Investigators who receive support are expected to submit a progress report prior to the end of the first year outlining progress made to date. Faculty at the University of New England, Maine Medical Center Research Institute, and the University of New Hampshire are eligible to apply.

Letters of Intent

Letters of intent are due December 10, 2021. Letters should include the project title, a list of key personnel, and a brief description of the project (this information will be used to find qualified reviewers).

Applications

Applications are due January 14, 2022. Applications must include (links below provide downloadable templates):

• Project Title and Summary (PDF)
• Research Strategy Section
  • 3-page limit (not including works cited)
    • Includes
      • Specific Aims
      • Background/Significance
      • Experimental Design/Approach
      • Expected Outcomes
      • Timeline for Completion
• NIH Biosketches for all major personnel and collaborators
• Budget page: please provide a detailed justification for all supplies and personnel
• IACUC/IRB approval is not required for grant submission but will be required if the proposal is selected for funding

Contact

Letters of intent, applications, and questions around this application can be directed to Jennifer Malon, (207) 602-2517.

Pilot project awards are contingent on successful funding of the Phase 3 COBRE

The 2019 pilot awards were supported by the COBRE 5P20GM103643 and the Office of Research and Scholarship.

*R15 Grant Awarded July 2020

The 2018 pilot awards were supported by the COBRE 5P20GM103643 and the Office of Research and Scholarship.

The 2017 pilot awards were supported by the COBRE 5P20GM103643 and the Office of Research and Scholarship.

The 2016 pilot awards were supported by the COBRE 5P20GM103643.

The 2015 pilot awards were supported in part by the COBRE 5P20GM103643, UNE’s Office of Sponsored Research, and Center for Excellence in the Neurosciences.

*Transitioned to COBRE Project September 2016

**American Pain Society Rita Allen Fellowship Award - Received April 2016

***R15 Grant Awarded April 2016

*R15 Grant Awarded September 2014

**Transitioned to COBRE Project October 2014