UAB offers researchers a range of tools, training, and expert support to help move promising ideas from concept to competitive application
Writing a successful NIH R01 proposal requires more than a strong research idea. From developing specific aims and building a compelling scientific narrative to assembling institutional resources and preparing for peer review, UAB O’Neal Cancer Center investigators have access to a network of resources designed to strengthen grant applications.
Satoru Osuka, M.D., Ph.D., recommends starting with the O’Neal Grants Club
By drawing on the experience and insights of fellow researchers in a collaborative environment, participants can receive constructive peer feedback to strengthen their proposals. Proposals at any stage of development, from concept to resubmission, are welcome.
“I saw a significant improvement in my proposals after meeting with other Grant Club members. Learning how to tell my research goals story led to a successful R01 Grant,” says Satoru Osuka, M.D., Ph.D., an associate scientist at the O’Neal Cancer Center and assistant professor in the UAB Department of Neurosurgery.
For more information about the O’Neal Grants Club, contact Natalie Gassman, Ph.D., Associate Director for Faculty Advancement, at ngassman@uabmc.edu.
Other UAB Grant Writing Resources
The UAB Research Development Office (RDO) provides grant-writing resources, proposal-development consultation, professional development opportunities, and an extensive boilerplate library. The library additionally includes institutional information and language to help investigators efficiently develop sections of a proposal.
UAB Grant Writing Resources and Boilerplate Library
Take advantage of CCTS grant-writing programs
The UAB Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCTS) offers several resources specifically designed to help investigators pursuing K and R awards. Its Grant Writing Intensive Cohort (GRIT) provides structured grant-writing training, while the Mock Study Section gives investigators an opportunity to experience the NIH review process from a study-section perspective. CCTS also maintains a Grant Library featuring successful applications and other resources.
UAB CCTS Grant Writing Resources
Additionally, CCTS provides grant-writing and editing resources, including information about available writing and editing support.
CCTS Grant Writing & Editing Resources
Know the grant-development process
UAB’s Grant Development Continuum Toolkit provides a roadmap for the grant process, from identifying funding opportunities through scientific development, grant assembly and pre-submission review. Resources include GRIT, CCTS panels, departmental resources, scientific writers, and other proposal-review opportunities.
UAB Grant Development Continuum Toolkit
A culture of collaboration
For O’Neal Cancer Center investigators, these resources complement the commitment to helping researchers develop innovative ideas and translate discoveries into advances in cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
“One of the most valuable lessons in preparing an R01 is to start early and take advantage of the expertise around you. Having colleagues review your specific aims and overall approach well before submission can make a significant difference in how clearly you communicate the importance and impact of your science,” says Barry Sleckman, M.D., director of UAB O’Neal Cancer Center
Whether you are preparing your first R01 or refining your next application after reviewer feedback, start early, seek feedback, and use the resources available across UAB. A strong proposal is rarely written in isolation.