Grant Application Instructions
The Deafness Research Foundation (DRF) awards research grants once a year for investigations of the auditory and vestibular systems. All proposals related to research in hearing and balance, both basic and applied clinical, will be considered. DRF wishes to stimulate research that leads to a continuing and independently fundable line of research.
To view instructions on how to complete the DRF Application, download the Grant Application Instruction sheet.
On this page, you will find answers to the following questions:
What is the maximum amount and length of grant award?
Who is eligible for a DRF grant?
What can DRF grant funds be used for?
When are grant applications due?
How do I apply?
DRF provides up to $25,000 per year for 1-2 years for each research project. Continuation of funding from year to year requires reapplication and depends on significant progress as demonstrated in yearly progress reports. The typical funded project is two years in length; third year applications will only be honored in extraordinary circumstances (e.g., the recruitment of human subjects). Priority is given to new investigators in the field of hearing and balance and to projects that are likely to open new lines of inquiry. New and innovative projects developed by established scientists will also be considered; however, established investigators may only apply for one year of support.
Who is eligible for a DRF grant?
Applicants should demonstrate experience and strong research training as well as sufficient institutional support (facilities, time, and mentorship) to carry out the proposed work. Applicants should hold the M.D., Ph.D., or equivalent degrees as well as a faculty or post-doctoral appointment. Graduate students are not eligible for DRF grants. Applications from Principal Investigators with research funds exceeding $75,000 will not be accepted. Applications for research continuation or bridge funding should not be submitted.
What can DRF grant funds be used for?
The DRF funds may only be used for the proposed research; rebudgeting requires prior approval as defined in our Policy on Grants for Research Projects. The proposed research must not be funded from other sources. It is understood that DRF funded projects may subsequently be funded through other sources. In those cases, the DRF grant will be terminated.
When are grant applications due?
Different starting dates may be considered on an individual basis. First Year Applications must be received on December 1st by 5PM for project year beginning July 1st of the following year. Second Year Applicants must submit a " Letter of Intent" on December 1st and a completed Second Year Application/Progress Report on January 15th, received respectively by 5PM.
How do I apply?
Applicants must sign into our secure grant portal to download and submit applications. Apply Now!
General Instructions
Application/progress report must be submitted in electronic format that requires a PDF file and uploaded through the DRF website. Prospective applicants and current recipients must have an account set up to download and sumbit application and reports. One hardcopy of the application must be forwarded to: Trisha Donaldson, Grants and Program Coordinator, Deafness Research Foundation, 641 Lexington Avenue, 15th Floor, NY, NY 10022. Note: Applicants who do not sumbit a harcopy of their 2009-2010 grant application will not be penalized because this is a recent requirement.
The application must be clear and legible, with a minimum font size of 11 points. Figures, charts, tables, legends, and footnotes may be smaller in size but must be legible. To submit supplemental documentation with your application, email grants@drf.org listing your name, the name of your grant application, institution, and indication of first or second year applicant.
For additional information about the application process,view our detailed Grant Application Instruction sheet or contact Trish Donaldson at 212-328-9483 or by email to tdonaldson@drf.org.
