Grant Writing

School of Medicine

This course provides a foundation in grant writing for the early career scientist or public health practitioner. It includes seven core sessions, nine elective sessions (from which students must choose at least four), and a mock grant review experience. Core topics include an overview of funding agencies and award mechanisms, as well as how to identify funding opportunities, plan an application, construct an impactful research plan, develop a budget, and succeed at grantsmanship. Elective sessions discuss applying for specific types of grants including career development, global health, health policy, and programmatic awards; VUMC institutional awards and resources; VA grants; NIH biosketch development; research mentorship; and training in the responsible conduct of research. Students will also learn how grants are reviewed and scored, and participate in a mock grant review, choosing either career development award applications or programmatic grants. Enrollment is limited to students in the M.P.H. and M.S.C.I. programs, or by permission of the instructor.