PERF® Announces a New Bridge Grant Program – WINTER DEADLINE ADDED

The SPARK Grant: Supporting Pediatric Neurology Advances through Research in K-Awards

For early-stage investigators who are re-applying for NIH K08 or K23 Career Development Awards or the CNCDP-K12 Career Development Program.

OVERVIEW

The Pediatric Epilepsy Research Foundation® (PERF®) is committed to advancing pediatric neurology research by supporting the next generation of investigators. In recognition of the increasingly competitive and uncertain funding landscape, PERF is pleased to announce a new bridge grant program designed to support Early-Stage Investigators (ESIs) who are initiating their research careers in pediatric neurology.

This pilot program provides critical financial support to bridge the gap between initial career development (K-award) application submission and successful resubmission, enabling investigators to strengthen their proposals and continue their career trajectory in child neurology research.

Application Deadlines:

  • K08 or K23: August 7, 2025 by 5pm CDT    This deadline has passed
  • CNCDP-K12, K08, or K23: November 13, 2025, by 5:00 pm CST
  • WINTER DEADLINE ADDED: For only K08 and K23: February 12, 2026, by 5:00 pm CST

Download the information about eligibility, submission instructions and the application form here.