Competitive research proposals address clinical/ translational research related to the management of pain. Applicants should describe the proposed research in pain and describe how it is innovative and cutting edge. In addition, the applicant should describe their vision for a career in pain research and provide information or any examples of leadership in pain-related activities.

Eligible candidates must be a USASP member. Candidates will be an early career investigator within four years of their faculty appointment, except those who have received tenure at the time of the application. Eligible candidates should demonstrate a commitment to the field of pain research and they must conduct their research and be appointed at an institution in the United States or Canada.

A signature page signed by the Applicant/PI and the Institutional Official responsible for submitting applications for extramural support.

An abstract (no more than 3,000 characters/300 words).

A Personal Statement summarizing the candidate's vision for their career and their contributions as a leader in the field of pain research (no more than 3,000 characters/300 words).

An NIH Biosketch (click here to access current version of template(s))

A list of current and pending research support from all sources, as well as clarification as to whether there is any overlap between projects funded/submitted elsewhere and the current proposal (overlap should be avoided).

A Research Proposal that is no more than 6 pages, with no less than 11-point Arial font and 0.5-inch margins. A timeline for completion of the project is required. Applicants may include a 7th page for references.

An Environment section that is no more than 2 pages that describes subject populations, collaborative arrangements, institutional support, equipment and other physical resources available to the investigator for the proposed research

One page describing the Inclusion of Women, Minorities, and Individuals Across the Lifespan: How the proposed research will include (or exclude) individuals on the basis of sex/gender, race, and ethnicity, as well as the inclusion (or exclusion) of individuals of all ages (including children and older adults).

Budget requests should not exceed $50,000. The budget should include a detailed request and justification for all study-related expenses. This grant does not allow indirect costs.

Three letters supporting the candidate’s application; names and addresses (including email) of these individuals should be included in the application. Only one letter will be included in the application and USASP will solicit two letters:

One letter appended to the application from the candidate’s Department Chair or Division Chief that demonstrates strong support for the candidate’s proposed research and career development (start-up funds, lab space, and a tenure-track position), and the acknowledgment that other sources of funds will cover indirect costs associated with this grant.

Name, mailing address, and email addresses for two individuals: the candidate’s post-doctoral advisor (or influential advisor) and/or mentor(s) who have impacted the candidate’s research. When completing the application, candidates will provide email contact information for two individuals. Once your application is submitted, these individuals will be contacted by a representative of USASP about the submission process for these letters.