Program Structure

• This GRIT program is catered to researchers who are looking to submit an R or K grant application.
• GRIT offers two simultaneous cohorts that are tailored to the needs of researchers in the basic science or clinical space.
• Participants are part of small, focused cohorts of 4-7 individuals.
• Each cohort meets weekly under the guidance of an experienced coach.
• GRIT is a one-year program that begins with 4 months of structured weekly activities and includes one-on-one coaching sessions, as needed, over the course of the year.
• Participants write and refine one extramural research proposal to be submitted within 6 months of program completion.
• GRIT is offered in a hybrid format, allowing participants to participate online or in person.

The Clinical Science cohorts typically last 18 to 20 weeks. Participants can schedule one-on-one coaching during the intensive period, especially if they plan to submit their grant application during or soon after the end of the intensive period.

Program Topics

Weekly sessions are a blend of didactic instruction and practical activities, covering topics including but not limited to:

• Navigating the NIH
• Contacting Your Program Officer
• Project Management for Proposal Development
• Building Collaborative Teams
• Conducting Literature Reviews
• Graphics and Figures to Enhance Storytelling
• Selling Your Significance & Innovation
• Biostatistics
• Budgets
• And more!

Program Benefits

• Structured Curriculum: GRIT provides a structured environment that promotes learning and application of best practices in grant writing.
• Individualized Feedback and Support: Participants receive personalized feedback and support from their dedicated coach.
• Accountability: Being part of a cohort fosters a sense of accountability, enhancing the learning experience and boosting motivation.

Program Fee

The GRIT Program Fee for 2026 cohort participants is $4500, due upon enrollment. Some GRIT participants use start-up or professional development funds to cover the cost of their participation, while others receive sponsorship from their department, division, or center. Please discuss with your Chair or PI to explore funding options that may be available to you.

Apply for GRIT

1. Introductory Call: If you’re interested in participating in GRIT, schedule an introductory call for either the Basic Science or Clinical Science GRIT cohorts. During this discussion with program leadership, we’ll delve into your research career and proposal development plans. This call will help determine if the GRIT program aligns with your grant writing goals.
2. Online Application: After completing the introductory call, you can formally apply for the GRIT program. The application involves uploading a biosketch and a specific aims page for your proposed project. If you’d like feedback on your specific aims page before submitting your application, please email Ty Lucas.
3. Evaluation: Our team reviews applications based on merit and readiness to benefit from the GRIT program. Select applicants receive invitations to participate in a panel review, where they receive constructive feedback on their proposals. Together, the panel assesses whether applicants are prepared to enroll in GRIT.
4. Admission Decision: Within two weeks of the panel review, applicants either receive invitations to enroll in GRIT or receive feedback on how to prepare for future enrollment.
5. Enrollment: If invited, applicants join the GRIT program and are assigned to a group of near peers at the same career stage, along with a dedicated group coach. Participants will receive an invoice for their program fee, due upon enrollment.