The SCRMC Musculoskeletal Regeneration Focus Group invites a call for proposals for collaborative pilot projects that strengthen musculoskeletal research on campus. The goal is to encourage new partnerships and support teams as they build momentum for future external funding. We expect to fund up to three projects, each with at least one PI from the musculoskeletal focus group.
SCRMC members interested in applying should submit a two-page proposal (NIH page formatting, excluding references). Applications must address the criteria listed below.
Application (two pages max):
- Rationale and Significance
Briefly describe the problem being addressed and why it matters. - Research Description
Include the project’s specific aims, a brief overview of the approach and methods, and the expected outcomes. Keep the level of detail appropriate. - Alignment with SCRMC Musculoskeletal Regeneration Focus Group Goals
Provide a short statement explaining how the proposed project aligns with the mission and priorities of the SCRMC Musculoskeletal Regeneration Focus Group. - Team Description and Roles
List the PIs and key personnel and summarize each person’s role and contribution to the project. Briefly describe why the combined expertise of the team is well suited to carry out the proposed work. One or two sentences per PI is sufficient. - Plans for Future Extramural Funding
Describe the pathway to external funding and identify the anticipated mechanism(s), such as NIH R01, R21, or relevant foundation opportunities.
Budget
Provide a table of planned expenditures up to $50,000. Faculty salary support is not allowed. Include enough detail to justify the requested costs. If desired, allowable categories may be listed (for example, supplies, core services, and trainee support).
Funding Details
Each grant may request up to $50,000.
The project period is one year. An extension may be requested if needed.
Proposals due date: January 19th, 2026
Expected start date: March 1st, 2026
Proposal Requirements & Eligibility:
At least two PIs. At least one PI must be a member of the SCRMC Musculoskeletal Regeneration Focus Group.
Projects should strengthen and expand musculoskeletal research on campus.
Proposals should describe how the work will build new collaborations or deepen existing ones across labs.
Applications should also explain how the project will help the team develop a clear research direction that can support future external funding, including larger collaborative grants.
Also include a simple table listing planned expenditures for a $50,000 budget. Faculty salary support is not allowed.
Proposal submissions and questions should be directed to scrmc@medicine.wisc.edu