The New York State Spinal Cord Injury Research Board (SCIRB) aims to accelerate the progress of spinal cord injury (SCI) research by supporting translational research efforts that bring preclinical findings closer to clinical application. The SCIRB is particularly focused on addressing key knowledge gaps that hinder scientific advancement in SCI research. This funding opportunity, known as the Translational Research Projects (TRP) in Spinal Cord Injury (Round 7), seeks to provide financial support for projects that validate, optimize, or refine tools, technologies, and treatments designed to alleviate or cure SCI-induced paralysis.

The Request for Applications (RFA) under this program provides funding for researchers working on mid-to-late-stage translational research, ensuring a clear and feasible path from research findings to clinical implementation. The program supports projects that are based on well-established hypotheses and early translational findings and aims to improve SCI treatment methodologies significantly. While matching funds are not required, applicants and their collaborating institutions are encouraged to contribute additional cash or in-kind funds to support their projects.

The SCIRB has allocated approximately $8 million in state funds for this funding cycle, supporting up to two awards. The specific number of awards granted will depend on the quality of applications received. Each award may include up to $1,000,000 in annual direct costs, with additional funding available for Facilities and Administrative (F&A) costs capped at 20% of modified total direct costs. The contract term for awarded projects will be up to five years.

Interested applicants must apply through the New York State Financial System (SFS) by searching for the grant opportunity name. While a Letter of Interest is not required, it is strongly encouraged. Questions related to the RFA must be submitted by April 15, 2025, with responses posted on or around April 22, 2025. The final application deadline is May 14, 2025, at 4:00 PM Eastern Standard Time.

The funding opportunity is limited to researchers and institutions within New York State. All funded projects must be conducted within the state, aligning with SCIRB’s mission to advance SCI research locally. Applicants must follow all outlined submission requirements in the RFA and ensure their projects demonstrate a clear potential for clinical translation.

For further details, interested parties may contact the primary or secondary grant administrators. The primary contact is David Googins, Health Program Administrator 1 at the Wadsworth Center, NYS Department of Health, located at Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12237. He can be reached at 518-474-7002 or via email at scirb@health.ny.gov. The secondary contact is Farrah O'Brien, Director of Extramural Grants Administration, also at the Wadsworth Center, reachable at the same phone number and email address.