2024 Parkinson's Foundation Impact Awards

Eligibility

Applicants:

• This award is open to scientists with a Ph.D. or M.D., regardless of nationality or location.
• Only independent investigators are welcome to apply: an applicant must be in a tenure-track position or equivalent. The Parkinson's Foundation will consider applications from Instructors who can demonstrate that they will begin a tenure-track position (as shown by a support letter from their department chair). The Foundation is the sole determinant of the applicant’s eligibility.
• The Parkinson's Foundation Impact Awards are designed for researchers both established and new to the field of PD. All research proposals must demonstrate a significant research focus and impact on PD.
• Applications from groups that have been historically underrepresented or excluded in the scientific workforce, including but not limited to racial and ethnic groups, sexual orientation and gender identities, individuals with mental/physical disabilities, and those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, are especially encouraged.

Summary

Impact Awards are designed for researchers both established and new to the field of Parkinson's disease (PD). Projects should be "outside the box" with the goal of bringing new light to the biology of Parkinson's, a new approach to Parkinson’s research, or testing a truly novel therapeutic idea. Projects should be based on unconventional ideas that are unlikely to be funded through more traditional funding mechanisms. Our goal is to provide the support that will enable researchers to test new ideas with an impact to the PD community and generate compelling results that will facilitate continued investment from the Parkinson’s Foundation and other funders.

Level of Support

Awards are up to a maximum of $150,000 for 12-18 months. Up to 10% ($15,000) of the total award may be used towards indirect costs. Salary support is permitted for no more than 40% of the principal investigator’s salary and capped at $50,000.