CTSI Pilot Project Awards

CTSI Pilot project awards

About the awards

These awards support research across UF’s broad range of scientific disciplines. It is expected that all research supported by these awards will result in one or more publications in a peer-reviewed journal and will provide critical preliminary data to support extramural applications. New award opportunities will be announced on this page, as well as in the UF CTSI's Elevate Newsletter.

Requests for Applications

2025–26 Clinical and Translational Science (CTS) Pilot Funding Opportunity

The UF+FSU Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) Hub is pleased to announce the launch of the 2025–26 CTS Pilot Award Program (Cycle 1). This intramural funding mechanism supports innovative, interdisciplinary research that advances clinical and translational science (CTS) through the development of reusable tools, methods, frameworks, and scalable resources. 

These pilot awards aim to accelerate the translation of scientific discoveries into clinical and community practice, enhance research efficiency, and improve health outcomes across diverse populations. 

Key Dates 

• RFA Announcement: Thursday, January 29, 2026 

• Information Session (optional): Wednesday, February 11, 2026 

• Letter of Intent (LOI) Deadline: Friday, February 20, 2026 

• Invitations for Full Applications: Friday, February 27, 2026 

• Pilot Design Studios & RConnect Review: March 9–20, 2026 

• Full Application Deadline: Friday, April 17, 2026 (5:00 p.m.) 

• Notice of Awards: Friday, May 15, 2026 

• Anticipated Start Date: Monday, June 1, 2026 

Projects involving human or animal subjects must have IRB/IACUC approval and NIH Prior Approval by June 1, 2026. This is a 12month award with no-cost extensions not permitted.  

CTS Pilot Information Session

The CTS Pilot Information Session will provide prospective applicants with an overview of the UF + FSU CTSA Hub CTS Pilot Program and guidance on how to submit a competitive application. The session will cover the program’s goals and priorities, with a focus on funding translational science projects that advance reusable clinical and translational science (CTS) tools, methods, and frameworks. Attendees will learn about eligibility requirements, allowable budgets, and key timeline milestones, including the required Letter of Intent and full application process. The session will also review expectations for stakeholder engagement, use of CTSI Hub resources, and required components such as Pilot Design Studios and R‑Connect feasibility reviews. Ample time will be provided for questions to help investigators assess fit, clarify requirements, and prepare for upcoming deadlines.

Facilitation: Wednesday, February 11, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. – noon via Zoom