IETF Research Grant Program

Geographic Scope: Not restricted; appears to be open internationally

Program Background: Established in 2001, the research grant program was revamped in 2021 following approval of increased funding from donors. Originally awarded up to two $25,000 grants per year. In 2020, the IETF Board approved increasing grant amounts to $50,000. As of 2021, the program was enhanced to offer up to three years of funding with potential initial grant amounts of $150,000 for the first year.

Focus Areas: The IETF now follows a Request for Applications (RFA) process with defined research topics. Funded studies must achieve one or more of the following goals:

1. Better understanding of the underlying pathophysiology of ET, including independent validation of previous findings
2. Better understanding of the etiology of ET
3. Development or further validation of animal models of ET
4. Other approaches furthering the understanding of ET that would lead to enhanced treatment options for patients

Eligibility: Researchers and clinicians with studies meeting one or more of the defined research goals

Contact Information:

• Website: www.essentialtremor.org/what-we-do/research/
• Phone: 888.387.3667 (Toll Free) or 913.341.3880
• Email: info@essentialtremor.org
• Address: PO Box 14005, Lenexa, Kansas 66285-4005 USA

Additional Notes: The IETF has set up an investment account to grow allocated funds for research so grants can be provided for many years. Dr. Holly Shill chairs the IETF Medical Advisory Board.

Application Process

Process Type: Request for Applications (RFA) - One-time solicitations for grant applications addressing defined research topics

Application Stages:

1. Letter of Intent Submission
   • Submit letter of intent outlining:
   • Specific aims of the study
   • Timeline
   • Other relevant details
   • Deadline: November 30, 2021 (historical; check website for current deadlines)
2. Review of Letters of Intent
   • Grant review committee reviews all letters of intent
   • Committee includes representatives from IETF Board of Directors and Medical Advisory Board
   • Promising applications are invited to submit full proposals
   • Invitation Notification: January 2022 (historical; timeline varies by RFA cycle)
3. Full Proposal Submission
   • Selected applicants submit complete proposals
4. Award Announcement
   • Grant recipients announced (June 2022 for 2021 RFA; timing varies)

Funding Structure:

• Potential initial grant: up to $150,000 for first year
• Multi-year funding: up to three years of continuous support possible
• Specific funding amounts determined through review process

Required Materials: Letter of intent (specific format and requirements should be confirmed on the IETF website for current RFA cycles)