The Simons Foundation invites applications for its human cognitive and behavioural science grant. This supports the production of foundational knowledge about the neurobehavioural differences associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), which will directly inform the development or refinement of tools needed for translational efforts, such as biomarkers and outcome measures. Special emphasis is placed on objective, quantitative measures that may be used in conjunction with standardised clinical measures and genomic information to better triangulate phenotypic and neurobiological variability within and across individuals with ASD. Studies which capitalise on approaches to behavioural analysis that are informed by recent advances in computer vision and machine learning, as well as psychophysics and non-invasive neuroscience techniques, are encouraged. Studies which deepen understanding of cognitive constructs that are often modelled in experimental animals are also welcomed.
Non-profit organisations, public and private institutions, and government units and agencies worldwide may apply. Applicants and key collaborators must hold a PhD, MD or equivalent and have a faculty position or equivalent at a college, university, medical school or other research faculty. Principal investigators who do not have substantial expertise with ASD participants should include a close collaborator with such expertise on their grant application.
Two tracks are offered, explorer, for early-stage projects where feasibility and proof-of-concept are relevant outcomes, worth up to USD 500,000 for up to two years, and expansion, for more mature projects, where scalability, generalisability and ecological validity are the most relevant translational outcomes, with up to USD 900,000 for up to three years.
Deadline: 4th May 2023