2025-2026 CAM Center Pilot Awards
The Center for Cognitive Aging and Memory (CAM Center) announces two pilot research opportunities of up to $50,000 for individuals interested in developing extramural lines of research related to understanding and improving brain health and cognition in older adults. Any proposal that aims to understand or develop an intervention for cognitive change associated with ‘typical’ aging (that is, not related to neurodegenerative disease) will be considered. Proposed intervention studies may include preclinical studies or proof-of-concept clinical trials. Both existing CAM faculty members and those new to cognitive aging research are welcome to apply. Preference will be given to early stage investigators and those who wish to develop new research programs in this area. Proposals that employ AI approaches, plans to utilize existing CAM Center resources, a new faculty collaboration between UF GNV and JAX campuses, and/or integration of brain and peripheral aging are particularly encouraged.
Applications will be evaluated in a two-stage process. The first stage will involve a two-page written proposal which includes a brief description of the aims, approach and qualifications of the research team. Finalists will then be invited to present to the CAM leadership for final selection. Awards of up $50,000 will be made, with an option for one-year no cost extension. All awardees will be expected to participate in CAM Center activities, including the annual Inter-institutional meeting, and to submit an NIH research grant within eighteen months of the initial award.
Budgets and justification will be requested from all finalists.
Allowable expenses include: human participate payments, staff or trainee salary support, animal costs, general consumables
Unallowable expenses: PI salary effort, indirect costs, student tuition, travel, food unless justified for data collection
Due date for proposal: May 23, 2025
Finalist selection: May 31, 2025
Notification by June 15, 2025 for start date of July 1, 2025.
Please email your proposal to Sarah Burns (sarahburns1@ufl.edu)