Traditional Pilot Awards

The DC CFAR Pilot Awards Program aims to provide pilot funds on a competitive basis to HIV/AIDS investigators to assist them in the development of their NIH-funded research careers.

Investigator Eligibility

Faculty investigators at nine participating DC CFAR institutions (American University, Children's National Health System, DC Health, Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Us Helping Us and Whitman-Walker) who are full members of the DC CFAR are eligible to apply as Principal Investigators (PI) to the program. PIs can either be Early Stage Investigators or New Investigators as defined by NIH, including new investigators in HIV research. Clinical and postdoctoral fellows are not eligible to apply as PIs. Investigators with previous or current DC CFAR Pilot or Transitioning Investigator Awards are not eligible to apply and are encouraged to apply directly to the NIH for funding.

Research Scope

Projects must focus on HIV/AIDS and align with the NIH-defined high-priority HIV/AIDS research areas. High priority research domains for this cycle include studies that address Ending the HIV Epidemic using an implementation science approach, HIV cure research, aging and comorbidities, reducing HIV/AIDS incidence through pre-exposure prophylaxis and treatment as prevention, and engagement, adherence, and retention in HIV care.

Pivot Grant Opportunity

This cycle, DC CFAR investigators who received a pilot award three or more years ago may apply for a Pivot Grant. This opportunity is intended for investigators whose prior pilot work focused on areas that no longer align with current NIH priorities, and who seek to redirect their research toward current NIH HIV research priorities. The application process and requirements will mirror those of the standard pilot awards; however, pivot applications will be reviewed separately from pilot awards The DC CFAR will consider funding up to one Pivot Grant this cycle and priority will be given to traditional pilot awards. Investigators with questions about eligibility are encouraged to contact the Senior Research Program Manager before applying.

Application Process

Each year there are between one to two award cycles. Each cycle may vary slightly in terms of eligibility and scope of solicited proposals. Review the request for applications (PDF) and all application materials before completing the Pre-Submission Form.

Application Documents

Lorena Segarra, MPH
Senior Research Program Manager
lsegarragwu [dot] edu (lsegarra[at]gwu[dot]edu)