Grant Writing Intensive (GRIT) Program

Program Structure

• GRIT is designed for researchers who are looking to submit an NIH-style K or R or K application in the next 12 months. As it is currently designed, GRIT is ideal for persons submitting original applications. Persons submitting revisions are welcome to participate – please discuss with program leadership to ensure expectations are aligned.
• GRIT participants are placed into cohorts of 4-6 individuals based on grant mechanism (K versus R) and research focus area.
• Each cohort meets weekly for ~4 months under the guidance of an experienced coach. Weekly meetings are followed by one-on-one coaching, as needed, through grant submission.
• During GRIT, participants write and refine one extramural research proposal for submission within 12 months of program enrollment.
• GRIT is offered in a hybrid format, allowing participants to participate online or in person.

Program Topics

Weekly sessions are a blend of didactic instruction and practical activities, covering topics including but not limited to:

• • Navigating the NIH
  • Contacting Your Program Officer
  • Project Management for Proposal Development
  • Building Collaborative Teams
  • Conducting Literature Reviews
  • Graphics and Figures to Enhance Storytelling
  • Selling Your Significance & Innovation
  • Biostatistics
  • Budgets
  • And more!

Program Benefits

• Structured Curriculum: GRIT provides a structured environment that promotes learning and application of best practices in grant writing.
• Individualized Feedback and Support: Participants receive personalized feedback and support from their dedicated coach and peers. Participants also learn how to give feedback to peers.
• Accountability: Being part of a cohort fosters a sense of accountability, enhancing the learning experience and boosting motivation.

Eligibility

The GRIT program is open to faculty members within the CCTS Partner Network and select postdoctoral researchers who are pursuing extramural career development (K-series) or research (R-series) awards. Cohorts are grouped based on grant mechanism and research focus area to provide tailored support and guidance. The curriculum is heavily focused towards NIH applications, but applicants are welcome to pursue comparable federal or foundation funding during the GRIT program.

Program Fees

The GRIT Program Fee is $4500, due upon enrollment. Some GRIT participants use start-up or professional development funds to cover the cost of their participation, while others receive sponsorship from their department, division, or center. Please discuss with your Chair, mentor, Center Directors, etc. to explore funding options that may be available to you.

1. Expression of Interest: If you’re interested in participating in GRIT, submit an expression of interest using this link. 
2. Introductory Call: Program leadership will reach out to delve into your research career and proposal development plans. This call will help determine if the GRIT program aligns with your grant writing goals.
3. Submit Application: After completing the introductory call, you can formally apply for the GRIT program. The application involves emailing a biosketch and a specific aims page to program leadership by the deadline. 
4. Evaluation: Our team reviews applications based on merit and readiness to benefit from the GRIT program.
5. Admission Decision: Within four weeks of the application deadline, applicants either receive invitations to enroll in GRIT or receive feedback on how to prepare for future enrollment.
6. Enrollment: If invited, applicants join the GRIT program and are assigned to a group of near peers at the same career stage, along with a dedicated group coach. Participants will receive an invoice for their program fee, due to reserve their spot