Expired RFA-AI-10-009: Martin Delaney Collaboratory: Towards an HIV-1 Cure (U19)

Department of Health
and Human Services (HHS)

NIH... Turning Discovery Into Health^®

Part I Overview Information

Department of Health and Human Services

Participating Organizations
National Institutes of Health (NIH), (http://www.nih.gov)

Components of Participating Organizations
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), (http://www.niaid.nih.gov)
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), (http://www.nimh.nih.gov)

Title: Martin Delaney Collaboratory: Towards an HIV-1 Cure (U19)

Announcement Type
New

Update: The following updates relating to this announcement have been issued:

May 21, 2015 - This RFA has been reissued as RFA-AI-15-029.
September 16, 2010 - See Notice NOT-AI-10-042 The purpose of this Notice is to provide clarification of the intent of the FOA.

Request For Applications (RFA) Number: RFA-AI-10-009

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Number(s)
93.856, 93.242

Key Dates
Release Date: June 25, 2010
Letters of Intent Receipt Date: October 4, 2010
Application Receipt Dates: November 4, 2010
Peer Review Date: March, 2011
Council Review Date: May, 2011
Earliest Anticipated Start Date: July, 2011
Additional Information To Be Available Date (Url Activation Date): http://www.niaid.nih.gov/ncn/qa/revniaid.htm
Expiration Date: November 5, 2010

Due Dates for E.O. 12372

Not Applicable.

Additional Overview Content

Executive Summary

Purpose. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), National Institutes of Health (NIH), encourage grant applications from institutions/organizations to address the problem of HIV-1 persistence in HIV-1-infected persons treated with suppressive antiretroviral drug regimens. This FOA will support research in four areas: (1) basic research to identify and characterize the cellular reservoirs of HIV-1 in treated individuals, (2) development of assays that are physiologically relevant and that comprise a spectrum of cell types that may harbor latent HIV-1 or permit viral replication in the presence of effective antiretroviral drug regimens, (3) screening of drug candidates that target latent/persistent HIV-1, and (4) development and initial testing of new agents or strategies aimed at the eradication of HIV-1. The goal of this initiative is to expand the knowledge base on HIV-1 latency and persistence so that eradication strategies can be designed, developed and evaluated. The application must include basic research and translational activities as essential components, and collaborators must include a private sector entity.
Mechanism of Support. This FOA will utilize the U19 award mechanism.
Funds Available and Anticipated Number of Awards. For this funding opportunity, the total amount of funds available from NIAID and NIMH is $8.5M for fiscal year 2011. NIAID and NIMH expect to fund 1-2 awards.
Budget and Project Period. The total project period for an application submitted in response to this funding opportunity may not exceed five years. Direct costs may range from $3 to 5 million per year.
Application Research Strategy Length: In the U19 application, the Research Strategy sections of the Overview and each individual Research Project may not exceed 12 pages, and the Research Strategy for the individual Cores, may not exceed 6 pages, including tables, graphs, figures, diagrams, and charts. See Table of Page Limits.
Eligible Institutions/Organizations. Institutions/organizations listed in Section III, 1.A. are eligible to apply.
Eligible Project Directors/Principal Investigators (PDs/PIs). Individuals with the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary to carry out the proposed research are invited to work with their institution/organization to develop an application for support. Individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups as well as individuals with disabilities are always encouraged to apply for NIH support.
Number of PDs/PIs. More than one PD/PI (i.e., multiple PDs/PIs), may be designated on the application.
Number of Applications. Applicants may submit more than one application, provided they are scientifically distinct.
Resubmissions. Resubmission applications are not permitted in response to this FOA.
Renewals. Renewal applications are not permitted in response to this FOA.
Special Date(s). This FOA uses non-standard due dates. See Receipt, Review and Anticipated Start Dates
Application Materials. See Section IV.1 for application materials.
Hearing Impaired. Telecommunications for the hearing impaired are available at: TTY: (301) 451-5936.

Table of Contents

Part I Overview Information

Part II Full Text of Announcement

Section I. Funding Opportunity Description
1. Research Objectives

Section II. Award Information
1. Mechanism(s) of Support
2. Funds Available

Section III. Eligibility Information
1. Eligible Applicants
A. Eligible Institutions
B. Eligible Individuals
2.Cost Sharing or Matching
3. Other - Special Eligibility Criteria

Section IV. Application and Submission Information
1. Address to Request Application Information
2. Content and Form of Application Submission
3. Submission Dates and Times
A. Receipt, Review and Anticipated Start Dates
1. Letter of Intent
B. Sending an Application to the NIH
C. Application Processing
D. Application Assignment
4. Intergovernmental Review
5. Funding Restrictions
6. Other Submission Requirements

Section V. Application Review Information
1. Criteria
2. Review and Selection Process
3. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates

Section VI. Award Administration Information
1. Award Notices
2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements
A. Cooperative Agreement Terms and Conditions of Award
1. Principal Investigator Rights and Responsibilities
2. NIH Responsibilities
3. Collaborative Responsibilities
4. Dispute Resolution Process
3. Reporting

Section VII. Agency Contact(s)
1. Scientific/Research Contact(s)
2. Peer Review Contact(s)
3. Financial/ Grants Management Contact(s)

Section VIII. Other Information - Required Federal Citations

Part II - Full Text of Announcement

Section I. Funding Opportunity Description

1. Research Objectives

Purpose

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), National Institutes of Health (NIH), encourage grant applications from institutions/organizations to address the problem of HIV-1 persistence in HIV-1-infected persons treated with suppressive antiretroviral drug regimens. The goal of this initiative is to expand the knowledge base on HIV-1 latency and persistence so that eradication strategies can be designed, developed and evaluated. Applications must include basic research and translational activities as essential components and collaborators must include a private sector entity. The multi-project cooperative agreement (U19) mechanism is being used to encourage multidisciplinary, collaborative efforts involving academia and the private sector.

Background

This FOA is based on the premise that currently available anti-HIV-1 drugs have reached their potential for the suppression of ongoing viral replication, and a new treatment paradigm is needed. Highly effective antiretroviral agents can reduce and maintain viral load at levels below detection by standard assays, but do not eliminate residual viral reservoirs. Sensitive single copy assays demonstrate that HIV-1 is still measurable in the plasma of most individuals despite long term treatment with potent combinations of antiretroviral drugs, and intensification of such regimens with new or different drugs does not eliminate residual virus. The interruption of effective therapy predictably results in viral rebound within days to weeks in a majority of subjects.

Since the mid-1990 s, it has been known that HIV-1 establishes latency in resting CD4+ T cells. Recent studies of viral load decay kinetics, after the initiation of highly active antiretroviral treatment, suggest that there are additional latent reservoirs. The objective of this initiative is to identify and characterize reservoirs of HIV-1 remaining in optimally treated subjects and to develop ways to specifically target and eliminate them. For the purpose of this RFA, the term optimally treated refers to an HIV-1 infected person treated with an antiretroviral drug regimen that maintains HIV-1 RNA below the limit of quantification of an ultrasensitive assay (50-75 copies).

The eradication of HIV-1 is one of the highest priorities of the NIAID. Over the past two years, a number of meetings and consultations have been held with the HIV-1 scientific community to aid in the planning of initiatives in this research area. A Program Announcement (PA-09-152) entitled Basic Research on HIV Persistence was released in April 2009 to solicit basic science projects on HIV persistence (http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-09-152.html). This FOA builds upon the research area solicited in the Program Announcement by encouraging hypothesis-driven basic research on HIV-1 persistence, and adding requirements for a translational component and the participation of a private sector collaborator to facilitate movement of the research towards a virus eradication strategy that can be utilized in HIV-1-infected persons.

Objectives and Scope

The objectives of this initiative are: (1) to study the basic biology of HIV reservoirs to gain a better understanding of why HIV-1 cannot be eradicated with current antiretroviral therapy, and (2) to facilitate the design and development of safe strategies for eliminating latent or other sources of residual virus.

The initiative will support basic and clinical research in four areas: (1) basic research to identify and characterize the cellular reservoirs of HIV-1 in individuals treated with standard, effective antiretroviral drug regimens, (2) development of assays that are physiologically relevant and that comprise a spectrum of cell types that may harbor latent HIV or permit viral replication in the presence of effective antiretroviral drug regimens, (3) screening of drug candidates that target latent/persistent HIV-1, and (4) development and initial testing of new agents or strategies aimed at the eradication of HIV-1.

Proposed research programs are not expected to cover the entire spectrum of research described in this FOA, but to focus on a limited portion that, if achieved, can advance the field toward drugs or strategies to eradicate persistent HIV-1. For example, for groups interested in the unknown aspects of latency and persistence, the program could concentrate on identifying new viral reservoirs, understanding how specific reservoirs are established and maintained, and developing/testing a strategy to eliminate one or more of the characterized reservoirs. For groups interested in known aspects, i.e. latency of HIV-1 in resting CD4+ T cells, the program might begin with the development of a targeted strategy to eradicate virus from that reservoir, identify a drug candidate, and proceed to test-of-concept studies in an animal model of HIV-1 or in humans.

Examples of basic science areas of interest include, but are not limited to:

Identification/characterization of cellular reservoirs of latent virus
Mechanisms of latency establishment/maintenance
Biology of resting CD4+ T cells as it relates to the establishment and maintenance of latency in that cell population
New/further development of in vitro models of latency, using primary cells
Adaptation/refinement of existing animal models to study persistence or for testing virus elimination strategies
Development of a virus elimination strategy that specifically targets integrated HIV-1 provirus
Studies involving imaging, tissue sampling, or similar research to answer basic science questions about the location and disposition of persistent virus in optimally treated individuals
Projects or cores that propose basic research on the establishment and maintenance of HIV-1 latency in various cell populations in the central nervous system and/or novel therapeutic strategies to target latent/persistent infection in this protected compartment.

Examples of preclinical science areas of interest include, but are not limited to:

High throughput assay development/refinement for use in identifying drug candidates; development of second tier assays using relevant primary cells
Drug screening of potential agents for eliminating latent or other sources of residual virus
Test-of-concept animal studies
IND-enabling studies for agents to eliminate latent or other sources of residual virus

This FOA will also support pilot/test-of-concept clinical studies in humans if they are directly linked to basic research and/or preclinical development performed under the award. These are anticipated to be few in number, of small size (less than 50 subjects), and are subject to review by the Scientific Advisory Panel and NIAID/DAIDS Clinical Science Review Committee. Larger scale studies will not be supported under this FOA. Also see Section IV.6 Application and Submission Information: Additional FOA Requirements and Information.

Applications proposing any of the following will be deemed non-responsive and will not be reviewed:

Strategies that result in general activation of T cells (e.g. cytokine cocktails, agonistic antibodies, and similar approaches)
Studies on the mechanisms of virus control in persons who can suppress HIV to undetectable levels without antiretroviral drugs
Immunologic strategies for suppressing virus replication (e.g. therapeutic vaccines)
Drug discovery and development programs that do not include a basic science component
Intensification strategies using new combinations of existing drugs targeted to replicating virus
Research involving viruses other than HIV-1 and SIV
Applications focused solely on neuroAIDS

Partnerships

A key component of this initiative is the formation of partnerships between academia and the private sector to facilitate the movement of new basic science findings toward eradication strategies that can be evaluated in animals or humans. For the purpose of this FOA, the term private sector comprises large and small, domestic and foreign, for-profit pharmaceutical, biotechnology, bioengineering, and chemical companies.

Each application must be composed of a minimum of two interrelated research projects and an administrative core; scientific cores may also be proposed, but must support at least two projects to be responsive. The leader of at least one research project must be employed by, and represent, a private sector entity if the applicant institution is a university or other academic institution; conversely, at least one project leader must be employed by a university or other academic institution if the applicant organization is a private sector entity. The private sector partner should: propose a research plan that contributes materially and intellectually to the overall goals and objectives of the Program, contribute expertise and/or resources not generally available in academia, and have a track record of past successes moving concepts to practical applications. Applications not meeting the above described composition will be considered non-responsive and will not be reviewed.

For the purpose of this FOA, the following list of activities, alone or in combination, will not be considered sufficient to meet the requirement for the involvement of a private sector partner: providing access to intellectual property, chemical libraries, or novel experimental therapeutics or providing fee-for-service type activities such as routine in vitro assays, cell processing and preparation, standard pharmacology and toxicology tests.

The proposed private sector partner(s) should be appropriate to the needs of the program. For example, if the proposed program focuses on basic aspects of the research problem, a biotechnology company might be chosen. Examples include commercial entities that have expertise developing nucleic acid detection methodologies, advanced flow cytometry/cell sorting technologies, or imaging capabilities. If the program focuses more on applied aspects of the problem, a pharmaceutical company might be a more appropriate choice. Relevant expertise that might be provided by this type of partner includes assay development, set up and implementation of high throughput screening, medicinal chemistry, or other activities involved in drug discovery and development.

Additional Information for Multi-Project Applications

The application should lay out the PI’s scientific vision of the field by specifically addressing what is known about HIV-1 persistence in infected persons who are treated with optimally suppressive antiretroviral regimens, what the significant scientific gaps and opportunities are, and what research, tools and resources are needed to make progress toward the eradication of HIV-1. The Program overview should articulate the broad strategy that the program will adopt to achieve the scientific goals and describe the processes/approaches that will be used to govern decision-making and implementation of activities, including:

Establishment of scientific priorities
Plans to implement any redirection of science or resources
Expansion of the program: defining the scope, direction, and means of expansion should additional funds become available
Role of the Scientific Advisory Panel or other groups/persons in decision-making activities
Procedures for managing intellectual property issues as appropriate
Communication, frequency and means

Research Project: At least two research projects must be proposed for the application to be considered responsive.

Administrative Core: Each application must include an Administrative Core headed by a Core Leader with experience in project management. The Administrative Core Leader may also be the Principal Investigator of the application. The Core Leader is responsible for ensuring that shared scientific resources/facilities are utilized to the maximum extent possible and that procedures are developed to ensure that such resources are available to members of the research team in a timely manner.

An administrative core is a resource to the multi-project grant, providing for the overall management, coordination and supervision of the Program. As part of the administrative core research strategy, provide a plan that addresses:

Structure of the core, roles of core staff, and lines of authority within the core
Coordination of program components, problem identification and resolution, prioritization of resources, and the establishment of a strong collaborative environment for the Program
Plans for fiscal accountability

Funding for the overall administrative efforts, including secretarial, and/or other administrative services, expenses for publications demonstrating collaborative efforts, communication expenses, and travel expenses related to the annual meeting should be requested in the administrative core budget.

Scientific Core(s): A scientific core is a resource to the multi-project grant as a whole and must support at least two of the proposed research projects. The application must indicate the specific projects to be served by the scientific core(s). This section of the application should present a clear picture of the facilities, techniques, and skills that the core will provide and describe the role of the scientific core leader and each of the key participants. The apportionment of dollars or percentage of dollars that will be required to support each component research project that will utilize each scientific core should also be presented.

In securing services and common resources to support the needs of the program, it is expected that applicants will leverage existing government-funded resources, such as Clinical and Translational Science Awards (http://www.ncrr.nih.gov/clinical_research_resources/clinical_and_translational_science_awards/), Roadmap programs (http://nihroadmap.nih.gov/), or Centers For AIDS Research (http://www.niaid.nih.gov/labsandresources/resources/cfar/pages/default.aspx) whenever possible, and provide documentation in the application that such services and resources will be available to the program.

Scientific Advisory Panel:

In consultation with the NIAID Project Scientist, the PI will constitute a Scientific Advisory Panel of 3-4 investigators, not affiliated with any of the institutions/organizations comprising the U19 program, within six months of the award. See Section II.A.3, Collaborative Responsibilities, for information on the responsibilities of the Panel.

Note: Potential members for the Scientific Advisory Panel must not be named in the application and should not be approached regarding possible service, prior to an award being made. Applications proposing specific members of the Scientific Advisory Panel will be considered non-responsive and will not be reviewed.

Intellectual Property:

In light of the collaborative nature of this funding initiative, applicants are encouraged to reach consensus with any proposed partners, prior to application submission, regarding intellectual property, data sharing, and other legal matters that may arise during the project in order to ensure that the goals of this program will be met. In addition, applicants are expected to exercise their Bayh-Dole rights in a manner that is consistent with meeting the goals of the award and the intent of the Bayh-Dole Act to promote the utilization, commercialization and availability of the U.S. Government-funded inventions for public benefit Finally, applicants are expected to make new information and materials known to the research community in a timely manner through publications, web announcements, and reports to the NIAID or other mechanisms [See Section VI.2A.1, Principal Investigator (PI) Rights and Responsibilities, for other content related to intellectual property; see Sections IV.6, Other Submission Information, and Section VIII, Other information, for requirements related to sharing research data and resources], consistent with NIH policies, laws, and regulations.

See Section VIII, Other Information - Required Federal Citations, for policies related to this announcement.

Section II. Award Information

1. Mechanism of Support

This funding opportunity will use the multi-project cooperative agreement U19 award mechanism. The Project Director/Principal Investigator (PD/PI) will be solely responsible for planning, directing, and executing the proposed project.

This FOA uses Just-in-Time information concepts. It also uses non-modular budget formats described in the PHS 398 application instructions (see http://grants.nih.gov/grants/funding/phs398/phs398.html).

This funding opportunity will use a cooperative agreement award mechanism. In the cooperative agreement mechanism, the Project Director/Principal Investigator (PD/PI) retains the primary responsibility and dominant role for planning, directing, and executing the proposed project, with NIH staff being substantially involved as a partner with the Principal Investigator, as described under the Section VI. 2. Administrative Requirements, "Cooperative Agreement Terms and Conditions of Award".

Plans to continue the cooperative agreement project(s) beyond the initial period of award, to reissue the funding opportunity or other announcement, or to convert these awards to grants or contracts after the initial award period are indefinite.

2. Funds Available

The estimated amount of funds available for support of 1-2 awards in response to this announcement is $8.5M for fiscal year 2011. Future year amounts will depend on annual appropriations. Direct costs are expected to range between $3 million and $5 million per year. The total project period for an application submitted in response to this funding opportunity may not exceed 5 years.

Because the nature and scope of the proposed research will vary from application to application, it is anticipated that the size and duration of each award will also vary. Although the financial plans of the IC(s) provide support for this program, awards pursuant to this funding opportunity are contingent upon the availability of funds and the receipt of a sufficient number of meritorious applications.

Facilities and administrative costs requested by consortium participants are not included in the direct cost limitation, see NOT-OD-05-004.

NIH grants policies as described in the NIH Grants Policy Statement will apply to the applications submitted and awards made in response to this FOA.

Section III. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants

1.A. Eligible Institutions

The following organizations/institutions are eligible to apply:

Public/State Controlled Institutions of Higher Education
Private Institutions of Higher Education
Hispanic-serving Institutions
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)
Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities (TCCUs)
Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions
Nonprofits with 501(c)(3) IRS Status (Other than Institutions of Higher Education)
Nonprofits without 501(c)(3) IRS Status (Other than Institutions of Higher Education)
Small Businesses
For-Profit Organizations (Other than Small Businesses)
State Governments
Indian/Native American Tribal Governments (Federally Recognized)
Indian/Native American Tribally Designated Organizations
County Governments
City or Township Governments
Special District Governments
Independent School Districts
Public Housing Authorities/Indian Housing Authorities
U.S. Territory or Possession
Indian/Native American Tribal Governments (Other than Federally Recognized)
Regional Organizations
Other(s):
- Eligible Agencies of the Federal Government
- Faith-based or Community-based Organizations.

Non-domestic (non-U.S.) entities (Foreign Organizations) are not eligible to serve as primary applicants for this FOA. However, foreign components may submit a research project or core within a domestic application, under this FOA. The instructions for submission of research projects or cores are located in the supplemental instructions (Section IV.6, Other Submission Requirements).

1.B. Eligible Individuals

Any individual with the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary to carry out the proposed research as the PD/PI is invited to work with his/her institution to develop an application for support. Individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups as well as individuals with disabilities are always encouraged to apply for NIH support.

More than one PD/PI, or multiple PDs/PIs, may be designated on the application for projects that require a team science approach and therefore clearly do not fit the single-PD/PI model. Additional information on the implementation plans, policies and procedures to formally allow more than one PD/PI on individual research projects is available at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/multi_pi. All PDs/PIs must be registered in the NIH eRA Commons prior to the submission of the application (see http://grants.nih.gov/grants/ElectronicReceipt/preparing.htm for instructions).

The decision of whether to apply for a grant with a single PD/PI or multiple PDs/PIs is the responsibility of the investigators and applicant organizations, and should be determined by the scientific goals of the project. Applications for grants with multiple PDs/PIs will require additional information, as outlined in the instructions below. When considering multiple PDs/PIs, please be aware that the structure and governance of the PD/PI leadership team as well as the knowledge, skills and experience of the individual PDs/PIs will be factored into the assessment of the overall scientific merit of the application. Multiple PDs/PIs on a project share the authority and responsibility for leading and directing the project, intellectually and logistically. Each PD/PI is responsible and accountable to the grantee organization, or, as appropriate, to a collaborating organization, for the proper conduct of the project or program, including the submission of required reports. For further information on multiple PDs/PIs, please see http://grants.nih.gov/grants/multi_pi.

Multiple PDs/PIs may be designated on the primary U19 application. However, only one Project Leader (PL) or Core Leader (CL) may be designated for each project or core, respectively, for multi-project U19 applications.

A PD/PI, or PD/PI on a multi-PI application, or U19 PL may serve as a collaborator for another application provided there is no scientific overlap with the application submitted by the PD/PI, multi-PD/PI, or U19 PL. However, an investigator may only be a PD/PI, multi-PD/PI, or U19 PL on one application.

The PD/PI must devote at least 2.4 person months effort to the project (this includes a minimum 0.6 person months effort to the management and operations activities).

2. Cost Sharing or Matching

This program does not require cost sharing as defined in the current NIH Grants Policy Statement.

3. Other-Special Eligibility Criteria

Number of Applications. Applicants may submit more than one application, provided they are scientifically distinct.

Resubmissions. Resubmission applications are not permitted in response to this FOA.

Renewals. Renewal applications are not permitted in response to this FOA.

Section IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Address to Request Application Information

The current PHS 398 application instructions are available at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/funding/phs398/phs398.html in an interactive format. Applicants must use the currently approved version of the PHS 398. For further assistance contact GrantsInfo, Telephone (301) 710-0267, Email: [email protected].

Telecommunications for the hearing impaired: TTY 301-451-5936.

2. Content and Form of Application Submission

Prepare all applications using the PHS 398 application forms and in accordance with the PHS 398 Application Guide (http://grants.nih.gov/grants/funding/phs398/phs398.html).

Applications must have a D&B Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number as the universal identifier when applying for Federal grants or cooperative agreements. The D&B number can be obtained by calling (866) 705-5711 or through the web site at http://www.dnb.com/us/. The D&B number should be entered on line 11 of the face page of the PHS 398 form.

The title and number of this funding opportunity must be typed in item (box) 2 only of the face page of the application form and the YES box must be checked.

The exceptions from the PHS 398 instructions and detailed information on the application structure and components are provided in Section IV.6 Other Submission Requirements . All applicants must follow the specific instructions in that section.

Applications with Multiple PDs/PIs

When multiple PD/PIs are proposed, use the Face Page-Continued page to provide items 3a 3h for all PD/PIs. NIH requires one PD/PI be designated as the contact PD/PI for all communications between the PD/PIs and the agency. The contact PD/PI must meet all eligibility requirements for PD/PI status in the same way as other PD/PIs, but has no special roles or responsibilities within the project team beyond those mentioned above. The contact PD/PI may be changed during the project period. The contact PD/PI should be listed in block 3 of Form Page 1 (the Face Page), with all additional PD/PIs listed on Form Page 1-Continued. When inserting the name of the PD/PI in the header of each application page, use the name of the Contact PD/PI, et. al. The contact PD/PI must be from the applicant organization if PD/PIs are from more than one institution.

All individuals designated as PD/PI must be registered in the eRA Commons and must be assigned the PD/PI role in that system (other roles such as SO or IAR will not give the PD/PI the appropriate access to the application records). Each PD/PI must include their respective eRA Commons ID in the eRA Commons User Name field.

Multiple PD/PI Leadership Plan: For applications designating multiple PDs/PIs, the section of the Research Plan entitled Multiple PD/PI Leadership Plan , must be included. A rationale for choosing a multiple PD/PI approach should be described. The governance and organizational structure of the leadership team and the research project should be described, and should include communication plans, process for making decisions on scientific direction, and procedures for resolving conflicts. The roles and administrative, technical, and scientific responsibilities for the project or program should be delineated for the PDs/PIs and other collaborators.

If budget allocation is planned, the distribution of resources to specific components of the project or the individual PDs/PIs should be delineated in the Leadership Plan. In the event of an award, the requested allocations may be reflected in a footnote on the Notice of Award.

Additional information is available in the PHS 398 grant application instructions.

3. Submission Dates and Times

Applications must be received on or before the receipt date described below (Section IV.3.A). Submission times N/A.

3.A. Receipt, Review and Anticipated Start Dates
Letters of Intent Receipt Date: October 4, 2010
Application Receipt Date: November 4, 2010
Peer Review Date: March, 2011
Council Review Date: May, 2011
Earliest Anticipated Start Date: July, 2011

3.A.1. Letter of Intent

Prospective applicants are asked to submit a letter of intent that includes the following information:

Descriptive title of proposed research
Name, address, and telephone number of the Principal Investigator
Names of other key personnel
Participating institutions
Number and title of this funding opportunity

Although a letter of intent is not required, is not binding, and does not enter into the review of a subsequent application, the information that it contains allows IC staff to estimate the potential review workload and plan the review.

The letter of intent is to be sent by the date listed in Section IV.3.A.

The letter of intent should be sent to:

Peter R. Jackson, Ph.D.
Division of Extramural Activities
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
Room 3133, MSC 7616
6700-B Rockledge Drive
Bethesda, MD 20892-7616
Express Mail Zip 20817-7616
Telephone: (301) 496-8426
Fax: (301) 480-2310
Email: [email protected]

3.B. Sending an Application to the NIH

Applications must be prepared using the forms found in the PHS 398 instructions for preparing a research grant application. Submit a signed, typewritten original of the application, including the checklist, and three signed photocopies in one package to:

Center for Scientific Review
National Institutes of Health
6701 Rockledge Drive, Room 1040, MSC 7710
Bethesda, MD 20892-7710 (U.S. Postal Service Express or regular mail)
Bethesda, MD 20817 (for express/courier service; non-USPS service)

Personal deliveries of applications are no longer permitted (see http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-03-040.html).

At the time of submission, two additional copies of the application and all copies of the appendix material must be sent to:

Peter R. Jackson, Ph.D.
Division of Extramural Activities
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
Room 3133, MSC 7616
6700-B Rockledge Drive
Bethesda, MD 20892-7616
Express Mail Zip 20817-7616
Telephone: (301) 496-8426
Fax: (301) 480-2310
Email: [email protected]

3.C. Application Processing

Applications must be received on or before the application receipt date described above (Section IV.3.A.). If an application is received after that date, the application may be delayed in the review process or not reviewed. Upon receipt, applications will be evaluated for completeness by the CSR and for responsiveness by the reviewing Institute. Incomplete and/or non-responsive applications will not be reviewed.

The NIH will not accept any application in response to this funding opportunity that is essentially the same as one currently pending initial review, unless the applicant withdraws the pending application. However, when a previously unfunded application, originally submitted as an investigator-initiated application, is to be submitted in response to a funding opportunity, it is to be prepared as a NEW application. That is, the application for the funding opportunity must not include an Introduction describing the changes and improvements made, and the text must not be marked to indicate the changes from the previous unfunded version of the application.

Information on the status of an application should be checked by the Principal Investigator in the eRA Commons at: https://commons.era.nih.gov/commons/.

4. Intergovernmental Review

This initiative is not subject to intergovernmental review.

5. Funding Restrictions

All NIH awards are subject to the terms and conditions, cost principles, and other considerations described in the NIH Grants Policy Statement. The Grants Policy Statement can be found at NIH Grants Policy Statement.

Pre-award costs are allowable. A grantee may, at its own risk and without NIH prior approval, incur obligations and expenditures to cover costs up to 90 days before the beginning date of the initial budget period of a new award if such costs: 1) are necessary to conduct the project, and 2) would be allowable under the grant, if awarded, without NIH prior approval. If specific expenditures would otherwise require prior approval, the grantee must obtain NIH approval before incurring the cost. NIH prior approval is required for any costs to be incurred more than 90 days before the beginning date of the initial budget period of a new award.

The incurrence of pre-award costs in anticipation of a competing or non-competing award imposes no obligation on NIH either to make the award or to increase the amount of the approved budget if an award is made for less than the amount anticipated and is inadequate to cover the pre-award costs incurred. NIH expects the grantee to be fully aware that pre-award costs result in borrowing against future support and that such borrowing must not impair the grantee's ability to accomplish the project objectives in the approved time frame or in any way adversely affect the conduct of the project (see NIH Grants Policy Statement http://grants.nih.gov/grants/policy/nihgps_2003/NIHGPS_Part6.htm.)

6. Other Submission Requirements

Supplemental Instructions for the Preparation of Multi-Project Applications

The following section supplements the instructions found in Form PHS 398 for preparing a multi-project grant application (U19). Additional instructions are required because the Form PHS 398 is designed primarily for individual, free-standing research project grant applications, and has no specific instructions for multi-project applications consisting of research projects interrelated by a common theme.

The supplemental instructions for multi-project applications below are divided as follows:

A. General Instructions addresses collaborative efforts among research projects, the administrative and organizational structure as well as the overall facilities and environment, and the overall budget.

B. Specific Instructions for Individual Projects describes modifications to PHS Form 398 instructions on selected items to address the collaborative or interactive role of the project.

C. Specific Instructions for Core Units Describes modifications to PHS Form 398 instructions on selected items to address the collaborative or interactive role of the project.

A. General Instructions

All applications must be submitted on Form PHS 398. The multi-project grant application should be assembled and paginated as one complete document.

1. Form Page 1 - Face Page

Items 1 - 14: complete these items as instructed. This should be the first page of the entire application and all succeeding pages should be numbered consecutively.

When multiple PDs/PIs are proposed, use the Face Page-Continued page to provide items 3a-3h for all PDs/PIs. The Contact PI should be listed on block 3 of Form Page 1-Face Page, with additional PDs/PIs listed on the Face Page-Continued.

2. Form Page 2

Using Page 2 of Form 398, provide a succinct but accurate description (abstract) of the OVERALL multi-project application addressing the major, common theme of the program. Do not exceed the space provided.

List the performance sites where the research will be conducted.

Under "Key Personnel", list the PD(s)/PI(s) of the multi-project application, followed by the Project and Core Leaders of the component research projects and cores, and other key personnel and then other significant contributors.

3. Form Page 3 - Table of Contents

Do not use Form Page 3 of the PHS 398; a more comprehensive table of contents is needed for a multi-project application.

Bearing in mind that the application will be scientifically reviewed project by project and core by core, prepare a detailed Table of Contents that will enable reviewers to readily locate specific information pertinent to the overall application as well as to each component research project and core. A page reference should be included for the budget for each project and each core. Further, each research project should be identified by number (e.g. Project 1), title, and responsible Project Leader, and each Core should be identified by letter (e.g. Core A), title, and responsible Core Leader. The page location of a COMPOSITE BUDGET should be indicated in the "Table of Contents."

4. Composite Budget

Do not use Form Page 4 of PHS Form 398. Instead, using the suggested format presented below, prepare a Composite Budget For All Proposed Years of Support. (Justification for budget elements should not be presented here but in the individual budgets of the projects and cores.)

SAMPLE: Consolidated Direct Cost Budget for All Proposed Years of Support

Component	Year 1	Year 2	Year 3	Year 4	Year 5	All Years
Project 1. Invest.	125,000	130,000	135,200	140,608	146,232	677,040
Project 2. Study	125,000	130,000	135,200	140,608	146,232	677,040
Project 3. Develop.	100,000	104,000	108,160	112,486	116,985	541,631
Core A. Admin. Core.	50,000	52,000	54,080	56,243	58,493	270,816
Core B. DNA	25,000	50,000	52,000	54,080	56,243	237,323
Totals	425,000	466,000	484,640	504,025	524,185	2,403,850

5. Form Page 5

Complete the Total Direct Cost line entries for all requested budget periods (years) and the Total Direct Cost for Entire Period of Support entry. Detailed budgets are required within the descriptions of each project and core (see below). If the FOA allows for budget requests beyond 5 years, use a second Form Page 5 to reflect the additional budget years requested.

6. Biographical Sketch Format Page

Biographical sketches of all professional personnel for all components should be placed at the end of the application with the PI(s)/PD(s) first, followed by those of other key personnel in alphabetical order.

7. Resources Format Page

Do not complete. Essential information is to be presented in the individual research project and core sections of the application.

8. Program Overview (Research Objectives and Strategic Plan)

This narrative section summarizes the overall research plan for the multi-project application and is limited to (12) pages. The multi-project application should be viewed as a confederation of interrelated research projects, each capable of standing on its own scientific merit, but complementary to one another. This is an important section for it provides the group of investigators an opportunity to give conceptual wholeness to the overall program by giving a statement of the general problem area and by laying out a broad strategy for attacking the problems. As the strategy develops, each project and core should be cited briefly as to its place in the overall scheme. Summarize the special features in the environment and/or resources that make this application strong or unique.

9. Leadership Plan for Multiple PDs/PIs (required if applicable)

Applications designating multiple PDs/PIs for the overall Program must include a new section, entitled Multiple PD/PI Leadership Plan , as part of the Program Overview. This Plan must describe: a rationale for choosing a multiple PD/PI approach; the governance and organizational structure of the leadership team and the research projects and cores; communication plans, processes for making decisions on scientific direction, and procedures for resolving conflicts; the administrative, technical, and scientific roles and responsibilities for the PDs/PIs and other collaborators. If budget allocation is planned, the distribution of resources to specific components of the project or the individual PDs/PIs should also be delineated. In the event of an award, the requested allocations may be reflected in a footnote on the Notice of Award.

10. Checklist

One Checklist, placed at the end of the application, is to be submitted for the entire application.

11. Appendix Materials

Refer to Section IV.6. Appendix Materials below, for instructions on submitting appendix materials.

For each project or core in the multi-project application, 3 publications plus other approved material are allowed.

B. Specific Instructions for Individual Research Projects

Except for the requirements below, follow the PHS 398 Specific Instructions found at http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/funding/phs398/phs398.doc#_Toc130797900 in preparing each research project.

For each individual Research Project, include:

Cover page (see special instructions, below)

Description & Key personnel (PHS 398 Form Page 2)

Table of Contents (PHS 398 Form Page 3)

Budget Pages (PHS 398 Form Pages 4 and 5); with budget justifications

Research Plan

Resources

1. Cover Page

The Face Page of the 398 Form should not be used as a cover page for individual research projects within a multi-project application. Instead, use the PHS 398 continuation page to create a "Cover Page" containing selected data about each individual research project. This Cover Page will demarcate each individual research project and should contain the following information items (these are a subset of the information provided on a PHS 398 Face Page):

Project Number and Title: (e.g., 1. Preclinical Evaluation of HIV Microbicides)

Name of Project Leader: (e.g., Jones, Roberta A.)

Human Subjects: (Yes or No)

If Yes:

Exemption number, -or-

IRB Approval Date (e.g., 12/13/2006,or "Pending"), and Federalwide Assurance (FWA) number

Vertebrate Animals: (Yes or No)

If Yes:

IACUC Approval Date (e.g., 11/17/2006, or Pending) and Animal welfare assurance number:

Proposed Period of Support:

From: (mmddyy - e.g., 07/01/2007)

To: (mmddyy - e.g., 06/30/2112)

Costs Requested for Initial Budget Period: (e.g. 07/01/2007-06/30/2008)

Direct Costs: (e.g., $ 150,000)

Total Costs: (e.g., $162,000)

Costs Requested for the Entire Budget Period: (e.g., 07/01/2007-06/30/2112)

Direct Costs: (e.g., $700,000)

Applicant Organization (full address)

2. Form Page 2

Provide a Description (abstract) of the research proposed in the project according to the instructions on Form Page 2 of PHS Form 398. In addition, the abstract should contain a brief description of how the research project will contribute towards attainment of the multi-project program objectives.

List the performance sites where the research will be conducted.

Under "Key Personnel", list the Project Leader, followed by other key project personnel, and then other significant contributors.

3. Form Page 3

Prepare a Table of Contents for the research project using Form Page 3 of the PHS 398.

4. Budget Pages (PHS 398 Form Pages 4 and 5)

Prepare a detailed budget and justification for the research project using Form Pages 4 and 5 of the PHS 398.

5. Research Plan

Specific Aims (Limited to 1 page.)

List in priority order, the broad, long-range objectives and goals of the proposed project. Concisely and realistically describe the hypothesis or hypotheses to be tested. In addition, state the project's relationship to the multi-project program goals and how it relates to other projects or cores.

Research Strategy (Limited to (12) pages.)

Use this section to describe how the proposed research will contribute to meeting the program's goals and objectives and explain the rationale for selecting the methods to accomplish the specific aims. In addition to stating the biological significance of the research, indicate the project's relevance to the primary theme of the application.

Organize the Research Strategy in the specified order as stated in the PHS 398 Instructions, Section 5.5. Make sure to start each section with the appropriate section heading in order, Significance, Innovation, Approach, and include the appropriate information. Experimental details should be cited using the Bibliography and Reference Cited section and need not be detailed in the Research Strategy. Preliminary Studies for new projects must be included as part of the approach section.

If test- of- concept studies in animals or humans are proposed, include a brief description of the study in the Approach section, including elements such as study design, endpoints, rationale for choice of animal model or study population. However, no detailed study plan (or documents such as protocols) should be submitted since it would be based on research results that cannot be anticipated at the time of submission.

6. Resources

Provide information on resources available for the project. Describe how the scientific environment in which the research will be done contributes to the probability of success (e.g., institutional support, physical resources, and intellectual rapport.) For Early Stage Investigators, describe institutional investment in the success of the investigator. If there are multiple performance sites, describe the resources available at each site. Describe any special facilities used for working with biohazards or other potentially dangerous substances.

7. Biographical Sketches

Do not repeat the biographical sketches of participating investigators since this information will be included at the end of the overall application (and therefore will be referenced in the Overall Table of Contents).

C. Specific Instructions for Core(s)

Except for the requirements below, follow the PHS 398 Specific Instructions found at http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/funding/phs398/phs398.doc#_Toc130797900 in preparing each proposed core.

For each individual Core, include:

Cover page (see special instructions, below)

Description & Key personnel (PHS 398 Form Page 2)

Table of Contents (PHS 398 Form Page 3)

Budget Pages (PHS 398 Form Pages 4 and 5); with budget justifications

Research Plan

Resources Format Page

1. Cover Page.

The Face Page of the 398 Form should not be used as a cover page for cores within a multi-project application. Instead, use the 398 continuation page to create a "Cover Page" containing selected data about each individual core. This Cover Page will demarcate each core and should contain the following information items (which are a subset of the information provided on a Face Page - see PHS 398):

Core Letter and Core Title: (e.g., A. Monoclonal Antibody Production Core)

Name of Core Leader: (e.g., Smith, Robert A.)

Human Subjects (Yes or No)

If Yes,

Exemption Number, -or-

IRB Approval Date (e.g., 5/14/06, or Pending), and Federal-wide Assurance (FWA) number

Vertebrate Animals (Yes or No)

If Yes,

IACUC Approval Date (e.g., 4/15/07, or Pending), and Animal welfare assurance number

Proposed Period of Support

From: (mmddyy, e.g., 07/01/2007)

To: (mmddyy, e.g., 06/30/2012)

Costs Requested for Initial Budget Period

Direct Costs (e.g. $50,000)

Total Costs (e.g. $70,000)

Costs Requested for the Entire Budget Period

Direct Costs (e.g. $212,323)

Total Costs (e.g. $297,252)

Applicant Organization (ABC University; 111 Main Street; Anywhere, Else 99999)

The following are specific instructions for sections of the PHS 398 application form that are to be completed differently than usual. For all other items in the core application, follow the usual PHS 398 instructions.

2. Form Page 2. Provide a Description (abstract) of the core activities and services according to the instructions on Form Page 2 of the PHS 398. In addition, the abstract should contain a brief description of how the core services will contribute towards attainment of the multi-project program objectives.

List the performance sites where the core activities and services will be conducted.

Under "Key Personnel", list the Core Leader, followed by other key core personnel, and then other significant contributors.

3. Form Page 3. Prepare a Table of Contents for the core using page 3 of Form PHS 398.

4. Budget Pages (PHS 398 Form Pages 4 and 5)

Prepare a detailed budget and justification for the core using Form Pages 4 and 5 of the PHS 398.

5. Research Plan

Specific Aims (Limited to 1 page.)

List in priority order, the broad, long-range objectives and goals of the proposed core. Concisely and realistically describe the hypothesis or hypotheses to be tested. In addition, state the core’s relationship to the multi-project program goals and how it relates to the research projects or other cores in the application.

Core Research Strategy (Limited to (6) pages.)

Use this section to describe how the proposed core activities will contribute to meeting the program's goals and objectives and explain the rationale for selection of the general methods and approaches proposed to accomplish the specific aims. In addition, this section should indicate the relevance of the core to the primary theme of the multi-project application.

Organize the Research Strategy in the specified order as stated in the PHS 398 Instructions, Section 5.5. Make sure to start each section with the appropriate section heading in order, Significance, Innovation, Approach, and include the appropriate information. Experimental details should be cited using the Bibliography and Reference Cited section and need not be detailed in the Research Strategy. Preliminary Studies for new cores must be included as part of the approach section. Indicate in the Core Leader Biographical sketch how the Core Leader’s experience in Project Management will benefit the overall goals of the program.

6. Resources

Provide information on resources available for the core. Describe how the scientific environment in which the research will be done contributes to the probability of success (e.g., institutional support, physical resources, and intellectual rapport.) For Early Stage Investigators, describe institutional investment in the success of the investigator. If there are multiple performance sites, describe the resources available at each site. Describe any special facilities used for working with biohazards or other potentially dangerous substances.

7. Biographical Sketches

Additional FOA Requirements

An annual meeting is required. Applicants should include expenses related to participation of the scientific team and the Scientific Advisory Panel members in the administrative core budget.

Awardees must agree to the "Cooperative Agreement Terms and Conditions of Award" in Section VI.2.A "Award Administration Information".

See Section IV.2, Content and Form of Application Submission and additional text above for page limitations associated with multi-project applications.

PHS398 Research Plan Sections

All application instructions outlined in the PHS398 Application Instructions are to be followed, with the following additional requirements:

Specific Aims is limited to 1 page.
Research Strategy for the Program Overview (Research Objectives and Strategic Plan) and Individual Research Projects is limited to 12 pages and for the Cores is limited to 6 pages, including tables, graphs, figures, diagrams, and charts. See Table of Page Limits

Budget

This FOA uses non-modular budget formats described in the PHS 398 application instructions (see http://grants.nih.gov/grants/funding/phs398/phs398.html).

Appendix Materials

All paper PHS 398 applications submitted must provide appendix material on CDs only. Include five identical CDs in the same package with the application. See http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-08-031.html.

Do not use the Appendix to circumvent the page limitations. An application that does not observe the required page limitations may be delayed in the review process.

Resource Sharing Plan(s)

NIH considers the sharing of unique research resources developed through NIH-sponsored research an important means to enhance the value of, and advance research. When resources have been developed with NIH funds and the associated research findings published or provided to NIH, it is important that they be made readily available for research purposes to qualified individuals within the scientific community. If the final data/resources are not amenable to sharing, this must be explained in Resource Sharing section of the application. See http://grants.nih.gov/grants/policy/data_sharing/data_sharing_faqs.htm.

(a) Data Sharing Plan: Regardless of the amount requested, investigators are expected to include a brief 1-paragraph description of how final research data will be shared, or explain why data-sharing is not possible. Applicants are encouraged to discuss data-sharing plans with their NIH program contact. See Data-Sharing Policy or http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-03-032.html.

(b) Sharing Model Organisms: Regardless of the amount requested, all applications where the development of model organisms is anticipated are expected to include a description of a specific plan for sharing and distributing unique model organisms and related resources, or state appropriate reasons why such sharing is restricted or not possible. See Sharing Model Organisms Policy, and NIH Guide NOT-OD-04-042.

(c) Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS): Regardless of the amount requested, applicants seeking funding for a genome-wide association study are expected to provide a plan for submission of GWAS data to the NIH-designated GWAS data repository, or provide an appropriate explanation why submission to the repository is not possible. A genome-wide association study is defined as any study of genetic variation across the entire genome that is designed to identify genetic associations with observable traits (such as blood pressure or weight) or the presence or absence of a disease or condition. For further information see Policy for Sharing of Data Obtained in NIH Supported or Conducted Genome-Wide Association Studies, NIH Guide NOT-OD-07-088, and http://grants.nih.gov/grants/gwas/.

Section V. Application Review Information

1. Criteria

Only the review criteria described below will be considered in the review process.

2. Review and Selection Process

Review Process

Applications that are complete and responsive to the FOA will be evaluated for scientific and technical merit by an appropriate peer review group convened by the NIAID and in accordance with NIH peer review procedures (http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/peer/), using the review criteria stated below.

As part of the scientific peer review, all applications will:

Undergo a selection process in which only those applications deemed to have the highest scientific and technical merit, generally the top half of applications under review, will be discussed and assigned an impact/priority score.
Receive a written critique.
Receive a second level of review by the appropriate national advisory council.

The mission of the NIH is to support science in pursuit of knowledge about the biology and behavior of living systems and to apply that knowledge to extend healthy life and reduce the burdens of illness and disability. As part of this mission, applications submitted to the NIH for grants or cooperative agreements to support biomedical and behavioral research are evaluated for scientific and technical merit through the NIH peer review system.

Overall Impact

Reviewers will provide an overall impact/priority score to reflect their assessment of the likelihood for the project to exert a sustained, powerful influence on the research field(s) involved, in consideration of the following five scored review criteria, and additional review criteria (as applicable for the project proposed).

Scored Review Criteria

Reviewers will consider each of the five review criteria below in the determination of scientific and technical merit, and give a separate score for each. An application does not need to be strong in all categories to be judged likely to have major scientific impact. For example, a project that by its nature is not innovative may be essential to advance a field.

Significance. Does the project address an important problem or a critical barrier to progress in the field? If the aims of the project are achieved, how will scientific knowledge, technical capability, and/or clinical practice be improved? How will successful completion of the aims change the concepts, methods, technologies, treatments, services, or preventative interventions that drive this field?

Investigator(s). Are the PD/PIs, collaborators, and other researchers well suited to the project? If Early Stage Investigators or New Investigators, or in the early stages of independent careers, do they have appropriate experience and training? If established, have they demonstrated an ongoing record of accomplishments that have advanced their field(s)? If the project is collaborative or multi-PD/PI, do the investigators have complementary and integrated expertise; are their leadership approach, governance and organizational structure appropriate for the project?

Innovation. Does the application challenge and seek to shift current research or clinical practice paradigms by utilizing novel theoretical concepts, approaches or methodologies, instrumentation, or interventions? Are the concepts, approaches or methodologies, instrumentation, or interventions novel to one field of research or novel in a broad sense? Is a refinement, improvement, or new application of theoretical concepts, approaches or methodologies, instrumentation, or interventions proposed?

Approach. Are the overall strategy, methodology, and analyses well-reasoned and appropriate to accomplish the specific aims of the project? Are potential problems, alternative strategies, and benchmarks for success presented? If the project is in the early stages of development, will the strategy establish feasibility and will particularly risky aspects be managed?
If the project involves clinical research, are the plans for 1) protection of human subjects from research risks, and 2) inclusion of minorities and members of both sexes/genders, as well as the inclusion of children, justified in terms of the scientific goals and research strategy proposed?

Environment. Will the scientific environment in which the work will be done contribute to the probability of success? Are the institutional support, equipment and other physical resources available to the investigators adequate for the project proposed? Will the project benefit from unique features of the scientific environment, subject populations, or collaborative arrangements?

In addition to the above review criteria, the following criterion will be applied to applications in the determination of scientific merit and the impact/priority score.

Overall Impact of the Multi-Project Application: Is the program as a whole scientifically compelling? Is there coordination and synergy of the individual research projects and cores towards the achievement of the central objectives of the program? Are the overall program goals significant and focused on studies that meet the objectives of the FOA? Will the integration of the individual projects into a single program be more beneficial than pursuing each project independently? Does the PI/PD(s) have the leadership and scientific ability to develop an integrated and focused research program? Will the PI/PD(s) and other Project/Core Leaders devote adequate time and effort to the program? Is there adequate evidence of sufficient institutional support for the PI/PD(s) in terms of laboratory space, equipment and other resources? For applications designated multiple PDs/PIs, is the Leadership Plan both adequate and appropriate to ensure that there will be sufficient coordination and communication among the PDs/PIs? Are the administrative plans for the management of projects, including plans for resolving conflicts, appropriate? Did the private sector partner propose a research plan that contributes materially and intellectually to the overall goals and objectives of the Program; will the private sector partner provide expertise and/or resources not generally available in academia; does private sector entity have a track record of past successes moving concepts to practical applications? Has the applicant described plans to leverage existing Government funded resources and provided documentation that these resources will be available to the U19 investigators?

Administrative Core: Is the administrative and organizational structure appropriate and adequate to the attainment of the objective(s) of the proposed program? Is the management plan for fiscal accountability and communication within the program appropriate? Are the plans for coordination, problem identification and resolution, and the establishment of a strong collaborative environment for the program appropriate? Is the experience, level of commitment, and availability of the administrative Core Leader and staff adequate to manage the program? Does the Core Leader have project management experience?

Scientific Cores (if applicable): Is provision of resources and core services for the individual research projects critical and justified? Is the relationship of a scientific core to the central focus of the overall program strong? Is the quality of the relevant facilities or services provided and criteria for prioritization and usage appropriate? Are the qualifications, competence, and commitment of the Core Leader and key personnel appropriate?

Additional Review Criteria

As applicable for the project proposed, reviewers will consider the following additional items in the determination of scientific and technical merit, but will not give separate scores for these items.

Protections for Human Subjects. For research that involves human subjects but does not involve one of the six categories of research that are exempt under 45 CFR Part 46, the committee will evaluate the justification for involvement of human subjects and the proposed protections from research risk relating to their participation according to the following five review criteria: 1) risk to subjects, 2) adequacy of protection against risks, 3) potential benefits to the subjects and others, 4) importance of the knowledge to be gained, and 5) data and safety monitoring for clinical trials.

For research that involves human subjects and meets the criteria for one or more of the six categories of research that are exempt under 45 CFR Part 46, the committee will evaluate: 1) the justification for the exemption, 2) human subjects involvement and characteristics, and 3) sources of materials.

Inclusion of Women, Minorities, and Children. When the proposed project involves clinical research, the committee will evaluate the proposed plans for inclusion of minorities and members of both genders, as well as the inclusion of children.

Vertebrate Animals. The committee will evaluate the involvement of live vertebrate animals as part of the scientific assessment according to the following five points: 1) proposed use of the animals, and species, strains, ages, sex, and numbers to be used; 2) justifications for the use of animals and for the appropriateness of the species and numbers proposed; 3) adequacy of veterinary care; 4) procedures for limiting discomfort, distress, pain and injury to that which is unavoidable in the conduct of scientifically sound research including the use of analgesic, anesthetic, and tranquilizing drugs and/or comfortable restraining devices; and 5) methods of euthanasia and reason for selection if not consistent with the AVMA Guidelines on Euthanasia. For additional information, see http://grants.nih.gov/grants/olaw/VASchecklist.pdf.

Biohazards. Reviewers will assess whether materials or procedures proposed are potentially hazardous to research personnel and/or the environment, and if needed, determine whether adequate protection is proposed.

Resubmission Applications. Resubmission applications are not allowed in response to this FOA.

Renewal Applications. Renewal applications are not allowed in response to this FOA.

Revision Applications. Revision applications are not allowed in response to this FOA.

Review Criteria for Individual Research Projects

If the project involves clinical research, are the plans for 1) protection of human subjects from research risks, and 2) inclusion of minorities and members of both sexes/genders, as well as the inclusion of children, justified in terms of the scientific goals and research strategy proposed?

Additional Review Considerations

As applicable for the project proposed, reviewers will address each of the following items, but will not give scores for these items and should not consider them in providing an overall impact/priority score.

Applications from Foreign Organizations. Applications from foreign organizations are not allowed as the primary applicant in response to this FOA.

Select Agents Research. Select agent research is not applicable for this FOA.

Resource Sharing Plans. Reviewers will comment on whether the following Resource Sharing Plans, or the rationale for not sharing the following types of resources, are reasonable: 1) Data Sharing Plan (http://grants.nih/gov/grants/policy/data_sharing/data_sharing_guidance.htm); 2) Sharing Model Organisms (http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-04-042.html); and 3) Genome Wide Association Studies (GWAS) (http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-07-088.html).

Budget and Period Support. Reviewers will consider whether the budget and the requested period of support are fully justified and reasonable in relation to the proposed research.

Selection Process

The following will be considered in making funding decisions:

Scientific and technical merit of the proposed project as determined by peer review
Availability of funds
Relevance of the proposed project to program priorities

3. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates

Not Applicable.

Section VI. Award Administration Information

1. Award Notices

After the peer review of the application is completed, the PD/PI will be able to access his or her Summary Statement (written critique) via the eRA Commons.

If the application is under consideration for funding, NIH will request "just-in-time" information from the applicant. For details, applicants may refer to the NIH Grants Policy Statement Part II: Terms and Conditions of NIH Grant Awards, Subpart A: General.

A formal notification in the form of a Notice of Award (NoA) will be provided to the applicant organization. The NoA signed by the grants management officer is the authorizing document. Once all administrative and programmatic issues have been resolved, the NoA will be generated via email notification from the awarding component to the grantee business official.

Selection of an application for award is not an authorization to begin performance. Any costs incurred before receipt of the NoA are at the recipient's risk. These costs may be reimbursed only to the extent considered allowable pre-award costs. See Also Section IV.5. Funding Restrictions.

2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

All NIH grant and cooperative agreement awards include the NIH Grants Policy Statement as part of the NoA. For these terms of award, see the NIH Grants Policy Statement Part II: Terms and Conditions of NIH Grant Awards, Subpart A: General (http://grants.nih.gov/grants/policy/nihgps_2003/NIHGPS_Part4.htm) and Part II Terms and Conditions of NIH Grant Awards, Subpart B: Terms and Conditions for Specific Types of Grants, Grantees, and Activities (http://grants.nih.gov/grants/policy/nihgps_2003/NIHGPS_part9.htm).

The following Terms and Conditions will be incorporated into the award statement and will be provided to the Principal Investigator as well as to the appropriate institutional official, at the time of award.

2.A. Cooperative Agreement Terms and Conditions of Award

The following special terms of award are in addition to, and not in lieu of, otherwise applicable OMB administrative guidelines, HHS grant administration regulations at 45 CFR Parts 74 and 92 (Part 92 is applicable when State and local Governments are eligible to apply), and other HHS, PHS, and NIH grant administration policies.

The administrative and funding instrument used for this program will be the cooperative agreement an "assistance" mechanism (rather than an "acquisition" mechanism), in which substantial NIH programmatic involvement with the awardees is anticipated during the performance of the activities. Under the cooperative agreement, the NIH purpose is to support and stimulate the recipients' activities by involvement in and otherwise working jointly with the award recipients in a partnership role; it is not to assume direction, prime responsibility, or a dominant role in the activities. Consistent with this concept, the dominant role and prime responsibility resides with the awardees for the project as a whole, although specific tasks and activities may be shared among the awardees and the NIH as defined below.

2. A.1. Principal Investigator Rights and Responsibilities

The Principal Investigator will have the primary responsibility for:

Annual Meeting: The Principal Investigator (PI) will be responsible for scheduling the time and place of an annual meeting, to include the membership of the Steering Committee (described below), the Scientific Advisory Panel (described below), and an NIMH program representative, if appropriate. The purpose of the meeting will be to review progress, plan and design research activities, and establish priorities.

Scientific Advisory Panel: Within six months of the award and in consultation with the NIAID Project Scientist, the PI will constitute a Scientific Advisory Panel of 3-4 investigators. These investigators cannot be affiliated with the applicant institution(s) or other institutions receiving funds from this award.

Communication: The PI will communicate with the NIAID Project Scientist through monthly conference calls regarding the status of the ongoing research. Importantly, the PI must communicate with the NIAID Project Scientist regarding the conduct of any clinical activity (enrollment, adverse events, interactions with the FDA, problems and resolutions of the same, changes of personnel, protocol amendments, etc.).

Intellectual Property:

If needed for the research project(s), the awardee shall be solely responsible for the timely acquisition of any proprietary rights, including intellectual property rights, and all materials appropriate for performing the project(s).
The awardee acknowledges that prior to, during, and subsequent to the award, the U.S. Government is not required to obtain for the awardee any proprietary rights, including intellectual property rights, or any materials needed by the awardee to perform the project(s).
The awardee acknowledges the requirement to report to the U.S. Government all inventions made in the performance of the project(s), as specified at 35 U.S.C. Sect. 200-212 (Bayh-Dole Act). In addition, awardees are expected to exercise their Bayh-Dole rights in a manner that is consistent with achieving the goals of this award and the intent of the Bayh-Dole Act to promote the utilization, commercialization and availability of U.S. Government-funded inventions for public benefit.
Awardees are expected to make new information and materials known to the research community in a timely manner through publications, web announcements, and report to the NIAID or other mechanisms consistent with laws, regulations, and NIH policies.
The U.S. Government will have rights of access to any data and software developed under these awards consistent with current HHS, PHS, and NIH policies.

Annual progress report: The PI will submit an annual progress report including results of the activities of all components of the award; a summary outlining interactions among other awardee PIs, PLs, and CLs, and the Project Scientists from NIAID and NIMH (if applicable); and a complete, cumulative list of all publications authored by group members.

Presentations or publications: The PI is responsible for the timely presentation/publication of work supported in part or in whole by this Cooperative Agreement. Prior notification of the NIAID regarding any presentations or publications and appropriate acknowledgement of NIAID support are required.

2. A.2. NIH Responsibilities

An NIAID Project Scientist will have substantial programmatic involvement that is above and beyond the normal stewardship role in awards, as described below.

An NIAID Project Scientist will be a liaison between the awardee and the NIAID. Ordinarily a single Program Official will be the contact for all facets of the scientific interaction with the awardee. As required for the coordination of activities and to expedite progress, the NIAID Project Scientist may designate additional NIAID staff to provide advice or assistance to the awardee on specific scientific, medical, technical, or management issues. The designated NIAID Project Scientist shall be responsible for overall programmatic oversight for the award and will clearly specify to the awardee the name(s) and role(s) of any such additional individuals and the lines of reporting authority.

During performance of the award, the NIAID Project Scientist may provide assistance, advice, and guidance by participating in the design of activities; facilitating access to resources and information that otherwise might not be available to the awardee; advising on the management of the projects and technical performance; facilitating interactions between the awardee and other groups of importance to the awardee, for example the NIAID clinical trials networks, the FDA, pharmaceutical and/or biotechnology companies, and other investigators with similar interests; providing guidance and oversight on compliance with Federal regulations related to human subjects research and NIAID policy on clinical research, and communicating in a timely manner information that might affect the safety of subjects in grant supported studies; and participating in the annual meeting to review research progress and direction and provide recommendations. However, the role of NIAID will be to facilitate and not direct the activities. It is anticipated that decisions on all activities will be reached by consensus and that NIAID program staff will be given the opportunity to offer input. The NIAID Project Scientist will be a non-voting member of the Steering Committee and will not participate as a co-author on any publications resulting from the research.

Additionally, an agency program official or IC program director will be responsible for the normal scientific and programmatic stewardship of the award and will be named in the award notice. The assigned NIAID Program Official may also serve as the NIAID Project Scientist.

NIMH will designate a Program Official and Project Scientist to the award funded under this FOA, if applicable.

2.A.3. Collaborative Responsibilities

Steering Committee: A Steering Committee, established within 2 months of the award, will serve as the governing body for the Program. The Committee will be chaired by the PI, and membership will include Project and Core Leaders, the NIAID Scientific Project Scientist, other NIH scientists as identified by the PI and/or Steering Committee members, NIMH Project Scientist and Program Official (if applicable), and any other key personnel identified by the PI. The NIAID Project Scientist will act in an advisory capacity and be a non-voting member of the Committee. The Steering Committee may recommend redirection of certain scientific activities in cases where results and data suggest the research is no longer feasible or progressing toward the defined goals. Any changes in scope of the proposed scientific agenda must be approved by the NIAID Project Scientist and the designated Grants Management Official.

Each full member will have one vote. Awardee members of the Steering Committee will be required to accept and implement policies approved by the Steering Committee.

The Steering Committee will:

Assist the PI in achieving the goals of the program
Participate in calls with the PI to address issues arising during the award
Create subcommittees and request input from the Scientific Advisory Panel, as needed
Evaluate progress of the program and make recommendations for achieving Project, Core and overall goals. This may include recommending changes in the level of effort for specific Projects and/or Cores and/or modification of goals.
Be responsible for identifying policies and procedures to be implemented by the PI to support operations and scientific progress, including development of guidelines for publication of the results of collaborative projects
Assist the PI, as required, in preparing formal reports summarizing program activities and/or progress, such as the Annual Progress Report
Advise the NIH Project Scientist on scientific opportunities, emerging needs and impediments
Assist in protocol development for clinical studies and evaluate human subjects issues when required
Ensure timely release of data to NIH-supported and/or public databases
Ensure adherence of the projects and cores to NIH policies on human subjects research, NIAID clinical terms of award (http://www.niaid.nih.gov/ncn/pdf/clinterm.pdf), DAIDS policies and procedures for clinical research (http://www.niaid.nih.gov/labsandresources/resources/daidsclinrsrch/pages/default.aspx) and those of applicable institutional and regulatory bodies (IRB, IBC, FDA, RAC, other),

The NIH Project Scientist will participate in the activities of the Steering Committee as required, providing verbal or written responses to the Steering Committee or its designated committees.

Scientific Advisory Panel: The Scientific Advisory Panel will be an independent advisory body and act as a resource for the Principal Investigator and the Steering Committee. The Scientific Advisory Panel will not be involved in the day to day activities of the program. Members of the Scientific Advisory Panel are expected to attend one program meeting per year throughout the award period. They will assist in review of program activities and evaluate progress toward the proposed goals, adherence to the original time frames, and the continued relevance of each project and scientific core to the overall goals of the research program. The Scientific Advisory Panel may recommend new directions as appropriate. The Scientific Advisory Panel will provide the PI and the NIAID Project Scientist with a comprehensive written evaluation of the Program’s activities, including the Panel’s recommendations, within 30 days of the annual meeting. In the case that the research reaches a point at which a test-of-concept clinical study is contemplated, the Scientific Advisory Panel may be called upon, at the discretion of the NIAID Project Scientist, to evaluate the readiness of the group to undertake the study.

2.A.4. Dispute Resolution Process

Any disagreements that may arise in scientific or programmatic matters (within the scope of the award) between award recipients and the NIH may be brought to Dispute Resolution. A Dispute Resolution Panel composed of three members will be convened. It will have three members: a designee of the Steering Committee chosen without NIH staff voting, one NIH designee, and a third designee with expertise in the relevant area who is chosen by the other two; in the case of individual disagreement, the first member may be chosen by the individual awardee. This special dispute resolution procedure does not alter the awardee's right to appeal an adverse action that is otherwise appealable in accordance with PHS regulations 42 CFR Part 50, Subpart D and HHS regulations 45 CFR Part 16.

3. Reporting

Awardees will be required to submit the Non-Competing Continuation Grant Progress Report (PHS 2590) annually and financial statements as required in the NIH Grants Policy Statement.

A final progress report, invention statement, and Financial Status Report are required when an award is relinquished when a recipient changes institutions or when an award is terminated.

Section VII. Agency Contacts

We encourage your inquiries concerning this funding opportunity and welcome the opportunity to answer questions from potential applicants. Inquiries may fall into three areas: scientific/research, peer review, and financial or grants management issues:

1. Scientific/Research Contacts:

Sandra Bridges, Ph.D.
Division of AIDS
National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
Room 4154, MSC-7626
6700B Rockledge Drive
Bethesda, MD 20892-7626
Telephone: (301) 496-8198
Fax: (301) 402-3211
Email: [email protected]

Jeymohan Joseph, Ph.D.
Division of AIDS Research
National Institute of Mental Health
Room 6219, MSC-9619
6001 Executive Boulevard
Bethesda, MD 20892-9619
Telephone: (301) 443-3012
Fax: (301) 443-9719
Email: [email protected]

2. Peer Review Contacts:

Peter R. Jackson, Ph.D.
Division of Extramural Activities
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
Room 3133, MSC 7616
6700-B Rockledge Drive
Bethesda, MD 20892-7616
Express Mail Zip 20817-7616
Telephone: (301) 496-8426
Fax: (301) 480-2310
Email: [email protected]

3. Financial or Grants Management Contacts:

Tamara Kees
Division of Extramural Activities
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
Room 2227, MSC-7614
6700B Rockledge Drive
Bethesda, MD 20892-7614
Telephone: (301) 496-7065
Fax: (301) 493-0597
Email: [email protected]

Rebecca Claycamp, CRA
Division of Extramural Activities
National Institute of Mental Health
Room 6122, MSC-9605
6001 Executive Boulevard
Bethesda, MD 20892-9605
Telephone: (301) 443-2811
Fax: (301) 480-1956
Email: mailto:[email protected] [email protected]

Section VIII. Other Information

Required Federal Citations

Use of Animals in Research:
Recipients of PHS support for activities involving live, vertebrate animals must comply with PHS Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (http://grants.nih.gov/grants/olaw/references/PHSPolicyLabAnimals.pdf) as mandated by the Health Research Extension Act of 1985 (http://grants.nih.gov/grants/olaw/references/hrea1985.htm), and the USDA Animal Welfare Regulations (http://www.nal.usda.gov/awic/legislat/usdaleg1.htm) as applicable.

Human Subjects Protection:
Federal regulations (45CFR46) require that applications and proposals involving human subjects must be evaluated with reference to the risks to the subjects, the adequacy of protection against these risks, the potential benefits of the research to the subjects and others, and the importance of the knowledge gained or to be gained (http://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/humansubjects/guidance/45cfr46.htm).

Data and Safety Monitoring Plan:
Data and safety monitoring is required for all types of clinical trials, including physiologic toxicity and dose-finding studies (phase I); efficacy studies (Phase II); efficacy, effectiveness and comparative trials (Phase III). Monitoring should be commensurate with risk. The establishment of data and safety monitoring boards (DSMBs) is required for multi-site clinical trials involving interventions that entail potential risks to the participants (NIH Policy for Data and Safety Monitoring, NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts, http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/not98-084.html).

Sharing Research Data:
Investigators submitting an NIH application seeking $500,000 or more in direct costs in any single year are expected to include a plan for data sharing or state why this is not possible (http://grants.nih.gov/grants/policy/data_sharing).

Investigators should seek guidance from their institutions, on issues related to institutional policies and local IRB rules, as well as local, State and Federal laws and regulations, including the Privacy Rule.

Policy for Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS):
NIH is interested in advancing genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to identify common genetic factors that influence health and disease through a centralized GWAS data repository. For the purposes of this policy, a genome-wide association study is defined as any study of genetic variation across the entire human genome that is designed to identify genetic associations with observable traits (such as blood pressure or weight), or the presence or absence of a disease or condition. All applications, regardless of the amount requested, proposing a genome-wide association study are expected to provide a plan for submission of GWAS data to the NIH-designated GWAS data repository, or provide an appropriate explanation why submission to the repository is not possible. Data repository management (submission and access) is governed by the Policy for Sharing of Data Obtained in NIH Supported or Conducted Genome-Wide Association Studies, NIH Guide NOT-OD-07-088. For additional information, see http://grants.nih.gov/grants/gwas/

Access to Research Data through the Freedom of Information Act:
The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-110 has been revised to provide access to research data through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) under some circumstances. Data that are (1) first produced in a project that is supported in whole or in part with Federal funds and (2) cited publicly and officially by a Federal agency in support of an action that has the force and effect of law (i.e., a regulation) may be accessed through FOIA. It is important for applicants to understand the basic scope of this amendment. NIH has provided guidance at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/policy/a110/a110_guidance_dec1999.htm. Applicants may wish to place data collected under this funding opportunity in a public archive, which can provide protections for the data and manage the distribution for an indefinite period of time. If so, the application should include a description of the archiving plan in the study design and include information about this in the budget justification section of the application. In addition, applicants should think about how to structure informed consent statements and other human subjects procedures given the potential for wider use of data collected under this award.

Sharing of Model Organisms:
NIH is committed to support efforts that encourage sharing of important research resources including the sharing of model organisms for biomedical research (see http://grants.nih.gov/grants/policy/model_organism/index.htm). At the same time the NIH recognizes the rights of grantees and contractors to elect and retain title to subject inventions developed with Federal funding pursuant to the Bayh Dole Act (see the NIH Grants Policy Statement http://grants.nih.gov/grants/policy/nihgps_2003/index.htm). All investigators submitting an NIH application or contract proposal, beginning with the October 1, 2004 receipt date, are expected to include in the application/proposal a description of a specific plan for sharing and distributing unique model organism research resources generated using NIH funding or state why such sharing is restricted or not possible. This will permit other researchers to benefit from the resources developed with public funding. The inclusion of a model organism sharing plan is not subject to a cost threshold in any year and is expected to be included in all applications where the development of model organisms is anticipated.

Inclusion of Women And Minorities in Clinical Research:
It is the policy of the NIH that women and members of minority groups and their sub-populations must be included in all NIH-supported clinical research projects unless a clear and compelling justification is provided indicating that inclusion is inappropriate with respect to the health of the subjects or the purpose of the research. This policy results from the NIH Revitalization Act of 1993 (Section 492B of Public Law 103-43). All investigators proposing clinical research should read the "NIH Guidelines for Inclusion of Women and Minorities as Subjects in Clinical Research (http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-02-001.html); a complete copy of the updated Guidelines is available at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/funding/women_min/guidelines_amended_10_2001.htm. The amended policy incorporates: the use of an NIH definition of clinical research; updated racial and ethnic categories in compliance with the new OMB standards; clarification of language governing NIH-defined Phase III clinical trials consistent with the new PHS Form 398; and updated roles and responsibilities of NIH staff and the extramural community. The policy continues to require for all NIH-defined Phase III clinical trials that: a) all applications or proposals and/or protocols must provide a description of plans to conduct analyses, as appropriate, to address differences by sex/gender and/or racial/ethnic groups, including subgroups if applicable; and b) investigators must report annual accrual and progress in conducting analyses, as appropriate, by sex/gender and/or racial/ethnic group differences.

Inclusion of Children as Participants in Clinical Research:
The NIH maintains a policy that children (i.e., individuals under the age of 21) must be included in all clinical research, conducted or supported by the NIH, unless there are scientific and ethical reasons not to include them.

All investigators proposing research involving human subjects should read the "NIH Policy and Guidelines" on the inclusion of children as participants in research involving human subjects (http://grants.nih.gov/grants/funding/children/children.htm).

Required Education on the Protection of Human Subject Participants:
NIH policy requires education on the protection of human subject participants for all investigators submitting NIH applications for research involving human subjects and individuals designated as key personnel. The policy is available at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-00-039.html.

Human Embryonic Stem Cells (hESC):
Criteria for federal funding of research on hESCs can be found at http://stemcells.nih.gov/index.asp and at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-09-116.html. Only research using hESC lines that are registered in the NIH Human Embryonic Stem Cell Registry will be eligible for Federal funding (http://escr.nih.gov). It is the responsibility of the applicant to provide in the project description and elsewhere in the application as appropriate, the official NIH identifier(s) for the hESC line(s) to be used in the proposed research.

NIH Public Access Policy Requirement:
In accordance with the NIH Public Access Policy (http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-08-033.html) investigators must submit or have submitted for them their final, peer-reviewed manuscripts that arise from NIH funds and are accepted for publication as of April 7, 2008 to PubMed Central (http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/), to be made publicly available no later than 12 months after publication. As of May 27, 2008, investigators must include the PubMed Central reference number when citing an article in NIH applications, proposals, and progress reports that fall under the policy, and was authored or co-authored by the investigator or arose from the investigator’s NIH award. For more information, see the Public Access webpage at http://publicaccess.nih.gov/.

Standards for Privacy of Individually Identifiable Health Information:
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) issued final modification to the "Standards for Privacy of Individually Identifiable Health Information", the "Privacy Rule", on August 14, 2002. The Privacy Rule is a federal regulation under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996 that governs the protection of individually identifiable health information, and is administered and enforced by the DHHS Office for Civil Rights (OCR).

Decisions about applicability and implementation of the Privacy Rule reside with the researcher and his/her institution. The OCR website (http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/) provides information on the Privacy Rule, including a complete Regulation Text and a set of decision tools on "Am I a covered entity?" Information on the impact of the HIPAA Privacy Rule on NIH processes involving the review, funding, and progress monitoring of grants, cooperative agreements, and research contracts can be found at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-03-025.html.

URLs in NIH Grant Applications or Appendices:
All applications and proposals for NIH funding must be self-contained within specified page limitations. For publications listed in the appendix and/or Progress report, internet addresses (URLs) must be used for publicly accessible on-line journal articles. Unless otherwise specified in this solicitation, Internet addresses (URLs) should not be used to provide any other information necessary for the review because reviewers are under no obligation to view the Internet sites. Furthermore, we caution reviewers that their anonymity may be compromised when they directly access an Internet site.

Healthy People 2010:
The Public Health Service (PHS) is committed to achieving the health promotion and disease prevention objectives of "Healthy People 2010," a PHS-led national activity for setting priority areas. This FOA is related to one or more of the priority areas. Potential applicants may obtain a copy of "Healthy People 2010" at http://www.health.gov/healthypeople.

Authority and Regulations:
This program is described in the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance at http://www.cfda.gov/ and is not subject to the intergovernmental review requirements of Executive Order 12372. Awards are made under the authorization of Sections 301 and 405 of the Public Health Service Act as amended (42 USC 241 and 284) and under Federal Regulations 42 CFR 52 and 45 CFR Parts 74 and 92. All awards are subject to the terms and conditions, cost principles, and other considerations described in the NIH Grants Policy Statement. The NIH Grants Policy Statement can be found at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/policy/policy.htm.

The PHS strongly encourages all grant recipients to provide a smoke-free workplace and discourage the use of all tobacco products. In addition, Public Law 103-227, the Pro-Children Act of 1994, prohibits smoking in certain facilities (or in some cases, any portion of a facility) in which regular or routine education, library, day care, health care, or early childhood development services are provided to children. This is consistent with the PHS mission to protect and advance the physical and mental health of the American people.

Loan Repayment Programs:
NIH encourages applications for educational loan repayment from qualified health professionals who have made a commitment to pursue a research career involving clinical, pediatric, contraception, infertility, and health disparities related areas. The LRP is an important component of NIH's efforts to recruit and retain the next generation of researchers by providing the means for developing a research career unfettered by the burden of student loan debt. Note that an NIH grant is not required for eligibility and concurrent career award and LRP applications are encouraged. The periods of career award and LRP award may overlap providing the LRP recipient with the required commitment of time and effort, as LRP awardees must commit at least 50% of their time (at least 20 hours per week based on a 40 hour week) for two years to the research. For further information, please see: http://www.lrp.nih.gov.