The UAB SPORE in Brain Cancer is inviting applications for Full Research Projects and Developmental Projects to be considered for inclusion in the Competitive Renewal of the UAB SPORE in Neurological Cancer (P50 CA097247). The renewal application is due May 23, 2006 and in anticipation of this deadline, we are opening a tiered competition to participate at the Full Project or Developmental Project level.

These projects must demonstrate relevance to intrinsic brain cancer in the areas of prevention and control, preclinical translational science or basic science. We are particularly interested in projects that will enhance our understanding of the molecular biology and pathogenesis of this disease and that will lead to translation of this information to improved diagnosis, prognosis or treatment of malignant brain tumors.

Current areas of research within the SPORE include tumor invasion, tumor growth control, virus gene therapy, and angiogenesis. However, project proposals in any area that might lead to the prevention, control, or effective treatment of primary malignant brain tumors are solicited.

All investigators are encouraged to apply irrespective of faculty rank or current NIH, ACS or other funding. Current Project Leaders will also be applying for Full Project consideration. Feel free to contact me to discuss your concepts and plans as you see fit.

The competitive process is two-tiered for both full project and developmental project proposals.

Full Project Concept Application: ($175,000 - $190,000 annually for five years)

•  A ten-page preliminary application outlining objectives, specific aims, significance, preliminary findings and approach is due ELECTRONICALLY by September 9, 2005 . Provide a list of investigators with current biographical sketches. Budget details (6/1/07-5/31/12) are not needed at this time. These concept applications will be reviewed by the Brain SPORE Advisory Committee, on or before November 4 th .

•  The best 5 applications will be notified the week of November 7 th to submit a formal NIH-style application (25-page limit for Sections A-D) on PHS 398 forms (Rev 09/04) electronically by January 31, 2006 .

Developmental Project Concept Application: ($45,000 - $50,000 annually for two years)

•  A six-page preliminary application outlining objectives, specific aims, significance, preliminary and brief methodology is due ELECTRONICALLY by September 9, 2005 . Provide a list of investigators with current biographical sketches. Budget details are not needed at this time. These preliminary applications will be reviewed by the Brain SPORE Advisory Committee, on or before November 4 th .

•  The best 6 applications will be notified the week of November 7 th to submit a final NIH-style proposal (6-page limit for Sections A-D) on PHS 398 forms (Rev 09/04) electronically by January 31, 2006 .

Detailed instructions will be provided at the time of notification. A planning meeting will be held the week of November 7 th to review the entire SPORE application process. The entire completed SPORE application will undergo external review and revision prior to submission on May 23, 2006 .

To re-iterate, September 9, 2005 is the deadline for submission of either the 10-page Full Project or 6-page developmental project concept applications. ELECTRONIC copy only should be sent to Jolene Lewis, Program Manager. Jolene@uab.edu Paper copies will NOT be accepted. If you have questions concerning the submission of these concept proposals, please contact Jolene at Jolene@uab.edu or 205/975-0438.