Applications open for AAOF Allison Summers Pediatric Pilot Grant Program

The AAOF identified two gaps in research funding and proposed actions to address these, including 1) the development of new collaborations with research partners, and 2) stimulation of novel exploratory research by funding pilot research projects. (Image credit: Adobe Stock/Serhii)

The American Academy of Optometry Foundation (AAOF) is accepting applications for the 2023 Allison Sommers Pediatric Pilot Grant Program. The program awards a $10,000 grant to enable mid-career clinicians to collect pilot data and compete for increased funding in pediatric research. Those interested must submit a letter of intent by May 1, 2023. 

The AAOF identified two gaps in research funding and proposed actions to address these, including 1) the development of new collaborations with research partners, and 2) stimulation of novel exploratory research by funding pilot research projects.

Recognizing the need for clinicians to have more access to funding and expanded opportunities as she progressed through her career, Allison Summers, OD, MCR, FAAO, developed and financially supported this grant to benefit clinical researchers. 

Eligibility

• The applicant must be a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry. https://www.aaopt.org/membership/becoming
• Eligible individuals include optometrists who have been in practice 10-25 years in a primarily clinical appointment (private practice, department of ophthalmology, school of optometry, hospital, healthcare center, or similar).
• The applicant must be a new researcher (hasn’t received an R01 or equivalent large funding and has less than 25% paid time for research).
• Priority will be given to proposals that advance diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (see the NIH-Wide Strategic Plan for DEIA) and/or are proposed by diverse investigators.
• Research mentorship is available to the awardee if requested.
• The AAOF reserves the right to reduce the budget to that judged appropriate for the materials and research effort required. Matching or any other type of material or personnel support are welcomed and should be included in the proposal.
• No indirect (i.e., facilities and administration) costs will be provided.
• All funds, as per policy of the American Academy of Optometry and the American Academy of Optometry Foundation, will be issued in U.S. currency to the primary institution of record.
• Awards support research conducted for a period of no more than 2 years. Recipients must submit a minimum 500-word report of their research findings to the AAOF at the end of each award period, to be eligible for subsequent awards sponsored by the AAOF.

Complete details regarding the application process and eligibility requirements are available on the Foundation’s website.