Supporting early-career investigators with funding, training, and mentorship to advance health research.
The SDSU HealthLINK Center is proud to offer a Pilot Project Program that connects early-career and senior researchers at SDSU and SDSU IV, and provides training, support, and networking opportunities in basic biomedical, behavioral, clinical and population-focused health research.
Up to 5 early-stage investigators will each receive funding to carry out a two-year pilot project.
Research Management Training Program led by the Investigator Development Team with session topics ranging from project start-up, to project management, to project close-out
Work with a senior SDSU faculty mentor who will guide you as you undertake a pilot project and work to achieve relevant career development goals.
To establish a fundable program of research, including obtaining independent extramural funding for a larger research project based on pilot project findings.
The awarding of pilot project funding follows a comprehensive three-step process designed to support your success at every stage.
Submit pilot project proposals focused on health research for all communities. Proposals utilizing Center services, resources, or that involve community partners receive highest priority.
Pilot project proposals approved by the SDSU HealthLINK Center’s review committee are invited to participate in a Grant-Writing Workshop to facilitate preparation of a full NIH-style application.
Full applications are reviewed by the SDSU HealthLINK Center's review committees. Recommended applications are prepared for submission to NIMHD for final awarding and project initiation.
Our mission is to create meaningful impact in health research and support the next generation of investigators working to improve health outcomes for all communities.
Support career development of early-career investigators at SDSU and SDSU IV conducting health-related research for all communities.
Increase potential for investigators to independently secure extramural funding through comprehensive training and support.
Foster development of a diverse community of basic biomedical, behavioral, clinical, and population health researchers.
The Pilot Project Program is led by experienced faculty members dedicated to supporting early-stage investigators in their research journey.
Distinguished Professor of Public Health
Leader, Investigator Development Team
Professor of Public Health
Co-Leader, Investigator Development Team
Professor of Psychology
Co-Leader, Investigator Development Team
Project Lead: Dr. Teresa Girolamo
Project Lead: Dr. Jane Leer
Project Lead: Dr. Hatun Zengin-Bolatkale
Project Lead: Dr. Jessica Baker
Project Lead: Dr. Laura Coco
Learn more about the Pilot Project Program and how it can support your research career.
There are limited sources of intramural funding for early-stage investigators at SDSU and SDSU
IV.
The SDSU HealthLINK Center received funding from NIMHD to award five pilot projects.
Pilot project proposals should be clearly aimed at studying health and/or improving health for all communities. Proposals that involve utilizing Center services and/or resources, or work with the Center’s community partners, are given the highest priority.
Awardees participate in a year-long Research Management Training Program led by the Investigator Development Team and other SDSU experts. They also work with a senior SDSU faculty mentor throughout their project to support career development goals and gain skills needed to become independently funded researchers.