This voucher program is designed to support early-stage cross-disciplinary collaborations and to expand the translational potential of existing research programs. The overall aim of this program is to increase the quantity, quality, and effectiveness of cross-disciplinary research at UAMS.
Vouchers will be awarded through a competitive peer-review process, with priority going to new teams proposing innovative research approaches with high potential for future funding and impact.
Annually, five vouchers of up to $20,000 will be funded. In rare circumstances, with strong justification, vouchers up to $50,000 may be awarded. The vouchers can be used for a broad range of aims including, but not limited to: building infrastructure to enable early-stage cross-disciplinary collaborations to compete for future extramural funding; adding new members to an existing funded project to expand the research approach; providing training to team member(s) to enable an existing project to expand its translational potential; acquiring preliminary data to facilitate future grant proposals; etc. However, projects that are simply a continuation of an existing research program are not allowed. Funds must be expended within one year of date of award and may be used for expenses including, but not limited to: faculty salary, staff salary, consultant fees, supplies, small equipment, software, training, publication fees, and travel. Participant incentives are not allowed.
