A longitudinal initiative aimed at raising the success rate of K-to-R award transitions. GRASP K-to-R Longitudinal Support Initiative
At a glance
Key Features
  • A multi-faceted initiative that supports K awardees in the transition to R01 grants
  • All components work synergistically to serve participants' needs throughout ongoing R01 grant preparations
  • Initial two-day orientation and grant-writing workshop
  • Specially-designed set of tools and resources (Elements of Grant Writing) to support self-directed work
  • Periodic grant review workshops
Useful for
  • K grant-funded junior investigators seeking to improve their chances for obtaining R01 grant funding
Available to
  • Investigators in the first or second year of their NIH career development awards, i.e. K23 and K01 awards, with a focus on patient-oriented research
Session Dates
  • March 12-13, 2012
Applications Due
  • 5pm on January 19, 2012
Note: The application process has closed. Please check back for future opportunities.

The Grant Review and Support Program's (GRASP) K-to-R Longitudinal Support Initiative trains investigators with K23 and K01 grants in patient-oriented research to use GRASP tools and resources to organize and develop their grant applications. During a two-day orientation workshop, participants will receive grant-writing advice, as well as the training to effectively use the resources of the Elements of Grant Writing. Participants will then receive ongoing support from the GRASP team as they continue to use of the Elements of Grant Writing throughout their K awards. Armed with the knowledge and tools provided by GRASP, participants will be prepared to submit an R01 grant application with a greater chance of being funded.

Admission Requirements:

  1. Accepted applicants of the K-to-R Longitudinal Support Initiative must commit to the following:
    • Attend the GRASP two-day orientation and grant-writing workshop.
      This comprehensive workshop features a presentation of R01-specific grant-writing techniques, a mock study section demonstration, and a review of the Elements of Grant Writing resources. (See July 2011 Schedule as a sample of workshop content and agenda.)
      • Note: participants will be required to complete assignments prior to the workshop, as well as an assignment lasting 2-3 hours following day one of the workshop.
      • Note: participants will be required to purchase a $75 workbook.
      • Workshop takes place March 12-13, 2012, at Maxwell Dworkin on the Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences campus.
    • Use the Elements of Grant Writing tools and resources, throughout the duration of their K award.
      All participants will learn how to customize and use the work plans featured on this website. Following the workshop, they must submit monthly progress reports to their scientific mentor(s) and the GRASP Coordinator.
    • Participate in workshop modules.
      Topics may include: specific aims drafts critiques, work plan customization.
  2. All applicants must receive an endorsement from their primary mentor(s) and division chief or department chair that the applicant will participate in this long-term offering.
  3. All applicants must be within Support Years 1-2 of their K23 or K01 at the time of the two-day GRASP workshop.
  4. All applicants must be in patient-oriented research.

GRASP and the K-to-R Transition

This offering is part of the Grant Review and Support Program (GRASP). GRASP is aimed at helping junior Harvard investigators successfully make the transition from a K award to their first R01 grant or equivalent. Currently in a pilot phase, GRASP offers opportunities for K awardees to receive grant-writing tools and guidance that will increase their chances of obtaining independent research funding.

Write Stronger Grants

Learn more about the Grant Review and Support Program (GRASP)

Learn More

Navigate the grant application process using the Elements of Grant Writing.