Min Du Department of Animal Science How to develop a successful grant proposal

A novel and testable idea addressing an important question Central hypothesis Separated into two or three working hypothesis and corresponding specific aims Approach: how could these working hypothesis be tested by experiments Alternative strategies if the proposed approach does not work Future directions

Writing a successful grant proposal How to generate a novel and feasible idea? Identify a hot topic which is high on the priority list. – Fat deposition, a crucial problem for animal agriculture. What is the knowledge gap? Could the knowledge gap be addressed by using our laboratory techniques and within our laboratory strength?

Writing a successful grant proposal Central hypothesis? Most research grant proposals are hypothesis driven. – Must have a clean, clear hypothesis. The hypothesis needs to be well justified by literature and preliminary data to be feasible. » But not proven!!! Can the central hypothesis be divided into two or three smaller hypotheses? These are working hypothesis and specific aims.

Writing a successful grant proposal Approach Develop approach for each aim. Must utilize the strength of the lab and your research experience. The ability to use new techniques need to be demonstrated by preliminary studies. Collaborations if these techniques are not available in the lab.

Writing a successful grant proposal Potential pitfalls and alternative strategies: Very important. To let reviewers know that success is ensured. – Even if those proposed experiments do not work, you have a backup plan for it!!!

Writing a successful grant proposal Future directions and follow up plans: Very important too. Reviewers want to know where you will go after receiving this funding. Especially important for seed grant.

A novel and testable idea addressing an important question Central hypothesis Separated into two or three working hypothesis and corresponding specific aims Approach: how could these working hypothesis be tested by experiments Alternative strategies if the proposed approach does not work Future directions

Writing a successful grant proposal for a new investigator What are most important for a successful grant proposal? A novel idea. The targeted problem must be important. The proposal must be focused! The idea must be testable. Keep the proposal simple but has depth.