The Heersink School of Medicine has introduced a new Bridge Funding program—"Under Extended Review.” This program is designed to support investigators whose proposals have received a “fundable score” but await the Advisory Council meeting.

The award offers funding of $37,500 for six months. These funds are intended to improve the success of the UAB research faculty and prevent them from experiencing gaps in funding.

In order to qualify for this program, researchers must serve as a contact Principal Investigator (PI) for an extramurally funded grant or contract. Additionally, the PI must have received a “fundable score” on their proposal and have less than $25,000 in discretionary accounts. PIs should reach out to their department chair or executive administrator if they are eligible and interested in submitting an application for bridge funding.

"This new initiative reflects Heersink’s dedication to fostering a robust research environment,” said Tika Benveniste, Ph.D., senior vice dean of the Heersink School of Medicine. “This funding will help support our researchers and ensure continuity in their important work."

The original Heersink Bridge Funding Award—now titled “Traditional”—has also been updated to streamline the application process. This program aims to support PIs experiencing gaps in funding and offers support of $75,000 for one year. To be eligible for this mechanism, the PI must have a NIH grant scoring better than the 35th percentile but not funded and have less than $25,000 in discretionary accounts. PIs should reach out to their department chair if they are eligible and interested in submitting an application for bridge funding.

For more information or to apply for these new and updated programs, visit the Heersink Bridge Funding Award website.