The Novice Research Award is provided by the Gerber Foundation to support the development of early-career researchers in the fields of health and medicine. This funding opportunity is designed to assist physicians, PhD candidates, PharmD candidates, and individuals with similar degree backgrounds who are in residency, postdoctoral, or fellowship training programs, or those who are no more than one year post-training. The primary goal of this grant is to offer financial support for research projects under the mentorship of an experienced researcher. The total funding amount for a project is capped at $30,000, which includes both direct and indirect costs. Applicants must ensure that their request for funding falls within this limit.

Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including having a mentor who will guide the research project and the requirement of a development plan. The mentor's qualifications and experience play a crucial role in the evaluation of the application. Additionally, applicants must not have received a K01 award from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), as those who hold or have previously received this grant are ineligible for the Novice Research Award.

The funding provided under the Novice Research Award must be used primarily for research-related expenses. However, the total budget must adhere to specific guidelines. Indirect costs are capped at 10% of the total direct costs. Furthermore, no more than half of the total budget may be allocated to salary for the developing researcher, including fringe benefits. The remainder of the funds can be used for supplies and other research-related expenses. An important provision of the grant allows for funding the cost of attending one conference to present research findings, with travel costs limited to $2,000.

The Gerber Foundation requires that all applicants submit detailed budgets, ensuring they adhere to these guidelines. The proposal evaluation process will consider the experience and qualifications of the mentor, as well as the quality and potential impact of the research project. Applicants must submit their application according to the same process as for major grants, with funding decisions based on these criteria.

The Novice Research Award program is administered by the Gerber Foundation, located at 4747 West 48th Street, Suite 153, Fremont, MI 49412. For inquiries, the foundation can be contacted via email at tgf@gerberfoundation.org or by phone at (231) 924-3175. The award details emphasize the importance of mentorship and the intended focus on early-stage researchers as they progress in their academic and professional careers.