The National MS Society propels MS research forward by seeking expeditious ways to conduct research, forge relationships, bridge barriers and garner resources. To this end, the Society funds high-risk pilot grants to quickly test novel ideas. Funding is provided for one year to test innovative, cutting-edge ideas or untested methods and gather sufficient preliminary data to apply for longer-term funding. We welcome applications for studies related to multiple sclerosis that may serve to advance our mission of stopping MS progression, restoring function and improving quality of life, and preventing MS. The Society supports fundamental as well as applied studies, non-clinical or clinical in nature, including projects in patient management, care and rehabilitation.

Researchers who have completed their post-doctoral training are invited to apply. Individuals who are currently postdoctoral fellows or the equivalent, or who are graduate/medical students are not eligible for support under this program.

In order to submit a proposal for research support, investigators must first register with our apply online site (www.mssocietyapplyonline.org) and complete a pre-application. Staff of the Research Programs Department will review the pre-application to determine whether the research plan is appropriate and relevant to our goals. NOTE: As of June 10, 2011, we will no longer accept pilot grant applications using the old application forms. All pilot applications must be submitted through the online application site (www.mssocietyapplyonline.org).

Deadline: New applications reviewed on a quarterly basis with deadlines in early January, April, July, and October.

Download complete information on applying for pilot research grants (.pdf)

For more information, please contact:

Jennifer Stark, PhD
jennifer.stark@nmss.org