Scientific Research Grants

Funder: English Springer Spaniel Field Trial Association Foundation Inc

Geographic Scope: International

Focus Areas:

• Breed-specific health research on English Springer Spaniels
• Research projects benefiting all dog breeds
• Priority research areas identified by Foundation health surveys:
  • Cancer research
  • Mammary tumor research
  • Grass awns ("mean seeds") prevalence
  • Dog behavior and temperament
  • Seizure disorders (Epilepsy)
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and eye diseases
  • Genetic mutations
  • Tick-borne diseases

Special Focus - Temperament Studies:
Priorities directed toward genetic and phenomic visualization of canine aggression across breeds. Studies of canine personality (genotypic and phenotypic) may be favorably considered. Studies should avoid negative approaches and potential unintended consequences for participating breeds and organizations.

Eligibility:

• Individual researchers
• Groups and institutions
• Principal investigators from academic and research institutions

Funding Approach:
The Foundation encourages applicants to first apply to major foundations (Morris Animal Foundation, American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation), then apply to ESSFTA Foundation for:

• Matching funds
• Partial matching funds
• Project support through Foundation resources (DNA Bank, access to Springer owners)
• Direct primary funding (case-by-case basis)

What the Foundation Does NOT Fund:

• Salaries of investigators
• Equipment purchases

Indirect Costs:

• Not to exceed 8% of total direct costs

Contact Information:

• Lawrence T. Schwartz, Ph.D., Vice President for Science & Research
• English Springer Spaniel Field Trial Association Foundation
• PO Box 219, Seal Rock, OR 97376-0219
• info@englishspringerfoundation.org
• treasure@englishspringerfoundation.org
• donation@englishspringerfoundation.org

Scientific Research Grant Application Process

Standard Format Submission (Primary Funding):

Submit 6 hard copies and 1 electronic copy (PDF or Word file on floppy disk or CD) to:
Lawrence T. Schwartz, Ph.D., Vice President for Science & Research
English Springer Spaniel Field Trial Association Foundation
PO Box 219, Seal Rock, OR 97376-0219

Page 1 - Application Header:

1. Title of Proposed Study (must be different from ongoing or pending research)
2. Name of Principal Investigator
3. Phone, Fax and Email
4. Institution Research Unit
5. Address
6. Requested Direct Costs Per Year
7. Requested Indirect Costs Per Year (not to exceed 8% of total direct costs)
8. Other Current Funding Sources/Other Possible Funding Sources
9. Summary of Research in 200 words or less

Pages 2-8 - Research Proposal Content:

1. Significance of Research
2. Background of Research and Preliminary Work
3. Specific Objectives (must be clearly stated and different from ongoing/pending research; must be performable within grant period; future research described as long-term goals)
4. Brief Description of Research Design and Methods
5. Expected Outcomes/Potential Application(s) to English Springer Spaniels or all dogs
6. Anticipated Problems or Obstacles
7. References (including relevant publications of Principal Investigator/Coinvestigators)
8. Detailed Budget Estimates for Each Year (including all costs for dog owners participating in research)
9. Project Timeline (identifying intermediate milestones with planned completion dates)

Expedited Review Process (for proposals already funded by other granting bodies or requiring only Foundation support, not funding):

• Submit detailed project summary
• Include name of funding body
• State that project has been peer reviewed
• Detail exactly what support is needed from Foundation
• Attach copy of original grant application
• May be emailed to: vanityfr@teleport.com
• Must also mail electronic copy (floppy disk or CD) to Lawrence T. Schwartz at address above

Evaluation Criteria:

• Scientific soundness
• Relevancy to Foundation mission
• Cost-benefit analysis
• Humane treatment of animals
• Credibility of researcher(s)

Review Process:

• Council of Scientific Advisors review
• Parent Club's Genetics and Health Committee review
• Foundation Board of Directors makes final decision at regularly scheduled Board meeting based on recommendations
• Board may refer requests to advisors/committees for recommendations

Post-Award Requirements:

• Regular progress reports for Foundation Board review
• Research oversight by primary granting institution (if funded by other source)
• Administration under Foundation Board oversight (if ESSFTA primary funded)