NEI Clinical Research Study Planning Grant Program (R34 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The National Eye Institute (NEI) offers a Clinical Research Study Planning Grant Program (designated R34), which specifically prohibits use for actual clinical trials. This program aims to support extensive clinical vision research projects, including randomized clinical trials and epidemiological studies.

To be considered for this grant, applicants at the point of submission are required to provide extensive details relating to their intended study. This involves a comprehensive justification for the study, alongside a clear outline of the study's design, analytical techniques and protocols to be followed. The operational structure and collaborative links and networks should also be outlined along with a detailed explanation of the facilities and resources to be utilized.

Emphasis is put on the development of a detailed Manual of Procedures (MOP). This document is critical in conveying all the necessary information related to the study. Producing such a document can be both time and cost intensive, and hence NEI has designed this funding opportunity to assist with this process.

The grant provides funds specifically to help refine study protocols and procedures, allowing for the development of a comprehensive MOP. Furthermore, resources may be deployed to preliminary studies which help fine-tune study procedures or ascertain recruitment potential.

However, the grant does not allow for collecting data regarding the effects of the proposed intervention. Also important to note, the NEI grant program is accessible for both epidemiologic studies and clinical trial research studies.