Research Grants: Frequently Asked Questions
How often are the ASRA Research Grants awarded?
The Carl Koller and Chronic Pain Grants are awarded every other year. Each grant is for a maximum period of two years. They are both awarded in even years.
The Early-Stage Investigator and Graduate Student Research Awards are given every year.
When does funding begin for the Carl Koller Memorial Research Grant?
We announce grant recipients at the annual regional anesthesia meeting in the spring. Typically the cycle begins July 1 of the year the grant is awarded. However, as long as all materials are in order, funding could begin the same month as the award is announced.
When does funding begin for the Chronic Pain Medicine Research Grant?
We announce grant recipients at the annual pain medicine meeting in the fall. Typically the cycle begins December 31 of the year the grant is awarded. However, as long as all materials are in order, funding could begin the same month as the award is announced.
Do I need to include biosketches or CVs of my co-investigators in the grant application?
No. You must include your own biosketch/CV, but you do not need to include full biosketches/CVs for your co-investigators.
What is the format for LOI submission?
Letters of intent (LOIs) are limited to one page, not including biosketch, and should be submitted as a single file only PDF format.
What is the format for full application submission?
Full applications should be submitted as a single file only PDF. Applications should be in readable 11 pt Arial font with at least 0.5” margins.
Does everything have to be submitted in one document?
Yes. Please submit all pieces of your application in one PDF file.
Is there a page limit for my proposal?
The LOIs are limited to one page. There is a 10 page limit for full application proposals, not including references and supporting documentation.
What is the format for the budget?
Please provide accurate numbers and a description of what each dollar amount will be used for. You should also include a breakdown of costs by year.
Should I submit my (and my co-investigators’) NIH biosketches along with the LOI (LOI says 100 word max bio/author)?
For the LOI, 100 word summaries are required; you do not need to submit all biosketches. For full application submissions, you should include your full NIH biosketch.
Will projects with commercial interest be considered?
Projects with commercial interest will be closely scrutinized.
Can I submit my grant while waiting for IRB/IACUC approval?
Yes – as long a you have the approval prior to receiving funds, you can submit your application for consideration while still in the approval process.
If you have already applied for approval, please include this information in your application. If you are a grant awardee, IRB/IACUC approval (if necessary for your project) will be required before funds are dispersed.
What are the research priorities for the grants?
Grant requests can be for any project falling into the research priorities of ASRA.
Do I need to be a member of ASRA to submit an application?
Yes. As a graduate student, you can register as a trainee on our membership page.
Do my collaborators need to be members of ASRA in order for me to apply?
No. The PI (person submitting the grant) needs to be a member of ASRA, but it is not necessary for the collaborators to also be members.
Am I eligible to apply for the Graduate Student Research Award if I’m graduating off cycle (same year as grant is being awarded, but after the award announcement)?
Yes. As long as you are within 5 years of graduating from your last program, you are eligible for the Graduate Student Research Award.
Can Graduate Student Award money be used for payment of tuition, IRB fees, or presentation at a meeting?
Yes – In terms of tuition, expenses specifically to obtain education and skills related to the research project are allowed.