This is a concept for continuing the Mentored Specialized Clinical Investigator Development Awards (MSCIDA) to support the development of outstanding clinical research scientists by using the existing resources and infrastructure of the Maternal Fetal Medicine Units Network (MFMU) and the Neonatal Research Network (NRN) to enhance the development of independent clinical investigators. The purpose of the Maternal Fetal Medicine Units Network and the Neonatal Research Network are to establish and maintain a multi-center research networks with an independent data-coordinating center and NICHD to perform clinical trials, observational research, and basic science. The network sites perform multi-center clinical trials in a rigorous manner to assess safety and efficacy of treatment and management strategies for pregnant women and newborn infants. The sixth cycle of the MFMU and NRN are set to be awarded April 1, 2016. This concept proposes to provide an opportunity for specialized study for individuals with a health professional doctoral degree who are committed to a career in laboratory or clinical based research. Candidates, who will be board eligible or board certified in Neonatology or Maternal Fetal Medicine, and affiliated with Departments that are part of an active cooperative agreement in the NICHD Neonatal Research Network (NRN) or Maternal Fetal Medicine Units (MFMU) Network, must demonstrate the potential to develop into independent investigators. The award supports a two to three year period of a supervised research experience that may integrate didactic studies with laboratory or clinically based patient related research. Due to the decreasing pool of clinical investigators, it is paramount that NICHD encourage the development of individuals with research potential in the settings of the NICHD MFMU and NRN. Support will be provided through a competitive supplement request, with up to one application per site per network (MFMU and NRN) accepted for consideration on behalf of fellows or junior faculty.
Program Contact
Tonse Raju
Pregnancy and Perinatology Branch
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