MDA Development Grants

MDA is committed to transforming the lives of people affected by muscular dystrophy, ALS and related neuromuscular diseases. As the largest source of funding for neuromuscular disease research outside of the federal government, MDA has committed more than $1 billion since our inception to accelerate the discovery of therapies and cures. Research we have supported is directly linked to life-changing therapies across multiple neuromuscular diseases. In addition to the work MDA does to provide the best clinical care and support to families living with neuromuscular disease, funding the most promising and innovative research is a top priority.

MDA's Scientific Program

As the leader in neuromuscular disease research, MDA is more committed than ever to finding treatments and cures. Our scientific program seeks to:

• Support research at pivotal stages in development — from research into disease etiology and pathogenesis through to clinical trials.
• Concentrate research funding on projects which focus on therapy development or tackle key barriers to therapy development.
• Foster talented new investigators.
• Encourage companies to engage in neuromuscular disease research and drug development.
• Use an intentional and proactive approach to funding research.
• Leverage MDA’s MOVR Data Hub to accelerate drug development, increase our understanding of neuromuscular diseases, and advance care.
• Facilitate collaboration among researchers, and support professional and educational opportunities.

MDA provides support for research throughout the pipeline of drug development from discovery research through clinical trials. Funding opportunities exist for both academic investigators as well as for biotech and pharma seeking to develop therapies for neuromuscular disease.

MDA Development Grants

The purpose of the Development Grants program is to expand the number of scientists conducting meritorious neuromuscular disease research funding postdoctoral investigators in the laboratory of a senior investigator under whose guidance the researcher will be given flexibility to work independently or as part of a collaborative effort. Applications will be accepted for no more than $70,000 per year for 3 years.

Eligibility

_You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website._

• Must hold a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.), Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) or equivalent degree (i.e., D.O.).
• Must be a member of a research team at an appropriate US or non-US based institution.
• Must be qualified to conduct a program of original research under the supervision of an independent investigator (mentor).
• Must have an acceptable research plan for a specific disease in MDA's portfolio.
• Must have access to institutional resources necessary to conduct the proposed research project.
• Must have a minimum of eighteen (18) months of post-degree research laboratory training at the time of application.
• Must be no more than 84 months (7 years) from receiving a Ph.D. or D.Sc.; or no more than 120 months (9 years) from receiving an M.D., D.O. or M.D., Ph.D. by the application deadline.
• By the application deadline, applicants must be in compliance with MDA’s Good Standing policy and be up to date on any delinquent or incomplete grant deliverable from previously awarded grants. See MDA Research Department Grant Policy Manual for details.

Ineligibility

• Must not have been funded under the Development Grant program in the past.