Pilot Grant Program

The Stem Cells and Aging (SCA) COBRE Pilot Grant Program provides funding for pilot projects with a high potential of translating basic research into clinical practice. The projects are led by teams of early-stage investigators, and the COBRE program provides the intellectual, technical, and instrumental infrastructure required for the successful transformation of the proposed work into extramurally funded competitive projects.

Teams of translational researchers, consisting of basic and clinical scientists, with at least one early-stage investigator, are selected for pilot project awards providing $50,000 per year for two years. Additional summer stipends for students from groups historically underrepresented in science will be provided to provide additional support for projects selected for funding.

Teams of the identified pilot project leaders are provided with a structured, formal mentorship by senior, extramurally-funded investigators. The utilization of the SCA COBRE Core Facilities is encouraged. Emphasis will be placed on rigorous, reproducible science with analysis supported by expert biostatisticians guiding the participating researchers.

See our 2024 program letter of intent (PDF)

To apply, review our 2024 Request for Application (PDF) and apply at UFunds by March 8, 2024.

Our Staff

Program Director: Patrycja Dubielecka-Szczerba, PhD
Email: [email protected] 
Phone (office): 401-444-8391 
Phone (lab): 401-444-4651

Associate Program Director: Adam Olszewski, MD  
Email: [email protected]