Introduction

The Foundation for OCD Research (FFOR) is a project of the New Venture Fund, a US-based non-profit 501(c)(3) organisation. Its mission is to deliver a functional cure for OCD in our lifetime. To do that, FFOR is pursuing multiple projects across multiple disciplines simultaneously: genetics, neuroscience, and therapeutics.

Call objectives

Within the framework of the FFOR Seed Grant Program, FFOR is seeking applications for innovative, potentially high-impact pre-clinical, translational or clinical research from investigators around the world. FFOR seeks to support projects that have the potential to significantly advance the understanding of the pathophysiology of OCD and/or improve the treatment of severe OCD.

Virtually any pre-clinical/basic science, translational or clinical research topic will be considered. Cross-disciplinary collaborative projects are encouraged. Examples of relevant research include, but are not limited to studies that aim to:

• Discover the molecular, cellular, synaptic, or circuit basis of prominent OCD symptoms in model organisms or humans.
• Identify and/or test pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapeutic targets.
• Advance biomarker development for OCD to improve diagnoses and/or treatment outcomes.
• Explore the role of the immune system or microbiome in OCD.
• Develop new models or refine existing models of OCD.

Budget

A maximum of five awards will be given. At least two will be given to junior faculty (or equivalents).

The grant has a value of $200,000 (direct costs) per year for up to three years. Maximum indirect costs of 10% can be added to this amount.

Continuation of the awards for second and third years of research will be dependent upon review of an annual progress report.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants must have principal investigator (PI) status at their home institutions at the rank of assistant professor (or equivalent) or above at an academic or other non-profit research institution within or outside the United States.

Applicants should have demonstrated productivity in a scientific field that can be applied to the study of the causes and treatments of OCD.

Multiple applications will be accepted from a single institution, provided that each application has a different PI and represents independent research.

Application

Applications may be submitted to FFOR using the available application form. Initial applications will be in the form of a Letter of intent (LOI). Selected applicants will be invited to submit a full application. The 2021 LOI deadline is 15 June 2021.

In case of interest, please contact lnorton(ELIMINAR)@fsjd.org