Conquer Chiari and Column of Hope are pleased to announce a joint call for research proposals in the areas of Chiari Malformation, syringomyelia, and the neuropathic pain and disability associated with these conditions.

We invite qualified researchers to submit Traditional Research Proposals (up to $75,000 for a single year) or Clinical Research Proposals (up to $5,000 per year, multiple years allowed).  In 2009, $250,000 is available for funding.

Interested applicants should carefully review the Research Grant Guidelines and complete the Research Grant Application:

: RESEARCH GRANT APPLICATION 2009

  RESEARCH GRANT GUIDELINES 2009

Please note the following important dates:

Call For Proposals: January 15th, 2009

Applications Due: March 31st, 2009

Award Notification: May 15th, 2009

Funding: June 1st, 2009

In general, the organizations are open to any and all ideas in the areas of Chiari, syringomyelia, and associated neuropathic pain and disability; including, but not limited to:

1. Improvements in diagnosis, such as the development of an objective definition of symptomatic Chiari, which will result in quicker, more accurate diagnoses
2. Development of novel treatments, both surgical and non-surgical; or research which advances a recognized standard of care
3. Research which advances the understanding of the pathophysiology and/or natural history of Chiari/syringomyelia; such as the genetic basis of Chiari; investigating possible underlying causes, such as posterior fossa volume, tethered cord, and intracranial hypertension; identifying which patients will develop syringomyelia; and research into when and why asymptomatic patients become symptomatic
4. The application of novel techniques and technologies to mitigate the nerve damage and pain associated with these conditions, including the potential commercialization of such technologies
5. Research which will mitigate the burden of living with Chiari/syringomyelia, such as the neuropsychological effects of Chiari, the use of rehabilitation techniques to improve quality of life, and the development of an objective, comprehensive measure – from a patient’s point of view – of the impact of the disease(s) on quality of life

1. Conquer Chiari has research funds specifically designated for pediatric research. Recognizing that many research topics apply to both children and adults, we are especially interested in research which directly addresses pediatric issues and needs

Priority will be given to proposals which demonstrate a clear path to clinical impact and/or a fundamental improvement in the current state of scientific understanding. Priority will also be given to proposals which can demonstrate the potential to generate future funding outside this grant process, such as from Federal or private foundation grants.

If there is a question as to the relevance of a project idea, applicants are encouraged to discuss their project ideas with the organizations prior to submitting a full application.

Conquer Chiari, known formally as the C&S Patient Education Foundation, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to improving the experiences and outcomes of Chiari and syringomyelia patients through education, awareness, and research.