Hola -
Jean -
http://cdmrp.army.mil/cwg/default.htm This is the link to the Dept of Defense congressionally directed medical research program. Find the "How Do I Apply" section and download !!! Joe and Christine sponsored me several years ago.
The panels meet once a year (but for those that want you can meet more often). It lasts 3 days and travel time is included in those three days. Its always in D.C.
I recently (last month) signed up to review proposals from doctoral students that were trying to receive funds for their doctoral thesis... the whole review was from my home on my computer. They paid $750 (to my surprise). When they call I always volunteer becasue I feel its an excellent way to see and hear all the things that are going on in bc research. This last review was also through the DOD (Dept of Defense- Army).
PinkGirl- In many ways, (in my opinion) yes. The $$$ is there. Keep in mind the funding the DOD provides is for the "leap frog, highly innovative and impactful research". The "next obvious steps in research" are usually funded by the NIH or other organizations. There is a difference between the two. Most bc research universities have specific setups for a specific train of research and rarely change course when they feel "they are on to something". Those are great, but when the primary investigator leaves, retires or is hired by another larger university, then all that info goes with him/her leaving a void. In many ways, these grants not only offer funding for research, but also the backing for these people to keep their jobs!!! But then- that is what research is- Usually the ideas of a couple of people in one place that need funding to perpetuate their research. The money goes to their salaries and infrastructure for their facility. Although many of the applicants are scored on whether or not they have the facilities for the specific research they contemplate. At least an eye is kept on those that just want funding for better equipment.
Many of the scientist reviewers themselves are future recipients of DOD funding and they go to these meetings to see how they can advance their carreers. I do not have a problem with that all. I figure whatever little idea they can pick up and run with is good--- after all, they are all in the same mode: to find a cure. I just hope they don't quit (or worse- go into private practice !!)
Maria
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