Vol. 18, No. 7, March 3, 1989 NOTICES NIH REGIONAL WORKSHOPS ON IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PHS POLICY ON HUMANE CARE AND USE OF LABORATORY ANIMALS ...............(84/169)........ 1 National Institutes of Health Index: NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH SOURCES SOUGHT RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT SOURCES SOUGHT MIDP-SSA-90-10 .....(175/249)........ 2 National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Index: ALLERGY, INFECTIOUS DISEASES DATED ANNOUNCEMENTS (RFPs AND RFAs) FACILITY FOR NON-HUMAN PRIMATES UTILIZED IN INFECTIOUS DISEASE RESEARCH (RFP) .............................................(255/303)........ 3 National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Index: ALLERGY, INFECTIOUS DISEASES CARE AND HOUSING OF AIDS RESEARCH ANIMALS (RFP) ............(306/356)........ 3 National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Index: ALLERGY, INFECTIOUS DISEASES ESTABLISHMENT AND MAINTENANCE OF AN ARMADILLO COLONY INFECTED WITH MYCOBACTERIUM LEPRAE (RFP) ............................(359/391)........ 4 National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Index: ALLERGY, INFECTIOUS DISEASES MENTAL RETARDATION RESEARCH CENTERS (RFA) ...........(401/562, 1204/1653).... 5 National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Index: CHILD HEALTH, HUMAN DEVELOPMENT ONGOING PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENTS STUDIES OF DIABETES MELLITUS AND RELATED PROBLEMS ..........(568/744)........ 7 National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Index: DIABETES, DIGESTIVE AND KIDNEY DISEASES ETHICAL AND LEGAL STUDIES RELATING TO THE PROGRAM TO MAP AND SEQUENCE THE HUMAN GENOME ..................................(747/893)........ 9 Office of Human Genome Research Index: HUMAN GENOME SPECIAL EMPHASIS RESEARCH CAREER AWARD (SERCA) IN LABORATORY ANIMAL SCIENCE .....................................(896/1024, 1656/2354)....11 Division of Research Resources Index: RESEARCH RESOURCES EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDIES OF PERSONS WITH MENTAL DISORDERS THAT CO-OCCUR WITH ALCOHOL AND/OR DRUG ABUSE DISORDERS .........(1027/1086).......12 Alcohol, Drug Abuse, and Mental Health Administration Index: ALCOHOL, DRUG ABUSE, MENTAL HEALTH PREVENTIVE PULMONARY ACADEMIC AWARD .......................(1089/1196).......13 National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Index: HEART, LUNG, BLOOD NOTICES NIH REGIONAL WORKSHOPS ON IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PHS POLICY ON HUMANE CARE AND USE OF LABORATORY ANIMALS P.T. 42; K.W. 1014002, 1014003, 0201011 National Institutes of Health The National Institutes of Health, Office for Protection from Research Risks, is continuing to sponsor a series of workshops in implementing the Public Health Service Policy on the Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. The workshops are open to institutional administrators, members of animal care and use committees, laboratory animal veterinarians, investigators and other institutional staff who have responsibility for high-quality management of sound institutional animal care and use programs. Date: March 30-31, 1989 Location: Newark, New Jersey Contact: Ms. Pat Sarles Office of Continuing Education University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey 185 South Orange Avenue Newark, New Jersey 07103 Telephone: (201) 456-4267 Date: April 13-14, 1989 Location: New Orleans, Louisiana Contact: Mrs. Lois Herbez Administrative Secretary Louisiana State University Medical Center 1542 Tulane Avenue New Orleans, Louisiana 70112-2822 Telephone: (504) 568-4198 Date: May 8-9, 1989 Location: Lake Tahoe, Nevada Contact: Mrs. Julie Lamoree Administrative Assistant Office of Campus Veterinarian University of California, Davis Davis, California 95616 Telephone: (916) 752-2364 Date: June 8-9, 1989 Location: Memphis, Tennessee Contact: Mrs Jean Littlejohn Division of Comparative Medicine St. Jude Children's Research Hospital 332 North Lauderdale P.O. Box 318 Memphis, Tennessee 38101-0318 Telephone: (901) 522-0300 Date: September 14-15, 1989 Location: Denver, Colorado Contact: Mrs. Mary Peratt Coordinator for Research Affairs Office of Research Affairs University of Colorado Health Sciences Center Box C290 4200 East 9th Avenue Denver, Colorado 80262 Telephone: (303) 270-7960 Vol. 18, No. 7, March 3, 1989 - Page 1 Other workshops are being planned and will be announced in future issues of the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts. For additional information contact: Ms. Roberta H. Sonneborn Executive Assistant for Animal Welfare Education National Institutes of Health Office for Protection from Research Risks Building 31, Room 5B59 Bethesda, Maryland 20892 SOURCES SOUGHT RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT SOURCES SOUGHT: MIDP-SSA-90-10 P.T. 34, AA; K.W. 0755015, 0740075 National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Program (MIDP), is seeking sources capable of conducting one or more randomized, controlled efficacy trials which will directly compare one or more new acellular pertussis vaccines with a conventional whole cell product in an infant population. A large-scale field trial was recently completed in Sweden in which two acellular pertussis vaccines produced in Japan were tested for efficacy in an infant population. Both vaccines were effective in preventing whooping cough, especially in cases with severe disease (i.e. cough >30 days). However, many questions remain following the trial such as: (1) could efficacy be improved by adding additional antigens to an acellular vaccine or by administering three rather than two doses; (2) what is the efficacy of acellular vaccines in infants vaccinated before six months of age; (3) what is the relative efficacy of whole cell versus acellular pertussis vaccine; (4) is there a serologic correlate of protection which can be measured; and (5) do acellular pertussis vaccines increase the risk of invasive bacterial infection? Therefore, NIAID, on behalf of the National Vaccine Program, is interested in determining whether there are sources capable of conducting additional trials with the main emphasis on assessing the efficacy of acellular vaccines relative to whole cell vaccine in preventing cases of pertussis. The secondary aim is to compare the relative safety of accellular vaccines with a whole cell vaccine and explore serological correlates of protection among immunized infants. The purpose of this "Sources Sought Announcement" is to determine if there are any interested parties capable of performing the trials as envisioned. Interested parties should submit six (6) copies of a capability statement no later than May 3, 1989. That statement should, at a minimum address each of the following areas: The capability to perform a double blind, randomized, prospective efficacy study which includes a whole cell pertussis arm, and, if possible, a placebo control. The capability to recruit a sufficent number of infants to have a high probability that the upper limit of a two-sided 95 percent confidence interval for the relative risk of pertussis with acellular vaccine, compared to whole cell vaccine, will be <1.5 if the two vaccines are equally effective. The capablility to immunize infants with three doses of either acellular or whole cell pertussis vaccine, preferable by the age of six months, but no later than 10 months. The capability to collect and store samples of sera and nasal secretions before and after immunization and during and after disease from a subset of infants. The capability to perform household contact studies and have access to the resources and personnel necessary to conduct a 2-3 year follow-up study. This Souces Sought Announcement is a request for information for planning purposes. It may or may not result in a solicitation; however, no funds are currently available for these purposes. Capability statements which are clearly identified as such should be sent to: Vol. 18, No. 7, March 3, 1989 - Page 2 Rosemary McCabe Hamill Contracting Officer MIDP-SSA-90-10 National Institutes of Health National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Contract Management Branch Westwood Building, Room 707 5333 Westbard Avenue Bethesda, Maryland 20892 DATED ANNOUNCEMENTS (RFPs AND RFAs) FACILITY FOR NON-HUMAN PRIMATES UTILIZED IN INFECTIOUS DISEASE RESEARCH RFP AVAILABLE: NIH-NIAID-OSD-90-5 P.T. 34; K.W. 1002002, 0715008, 0715125 National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has a requirement for the care and housing of AIDS research animals. The Intramural Research Program, Office of the Scientific Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), has a requirement to house and maintain non-human primates and other small animals while conducting directed research studies with respiratory and enteric disease agents. Respondents must possess facilities capable of housing approximately 65 non-human primates (monkeys). It is required that such facilites have the the capacity to move air through the isolation units at a rate of 15 air changes per hour. The facility must have a back-up generator to compensate for any power failures that may occur. In addition, the facilities proposed by the offeror must include a waste disposal system capable of sterilizing all waste material prior to release into available sewage systems. Patas and squirrel monkeys will be provided by contractor; caging and isolation units will be provided by the Government. Any contract awarded will be subject to DHHS regulations regarding the use of animal subjects in research. One contract may be awarded as a result of this solicitation. It is expected that the contract will have a five-year period of performance. Any responsible offeror may submit a proposal which will be considered by the Government. RFP-NIH-NIAID-OSD-90-5 will be issued on or about March 7, 1989. Proposals will be due by close of business on April 21, 1989. Request for the RFP should be directed to: Mr. Thomas C. Porter Contract Specialist Contract Management Branch National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases National Institutes of Health Westwood Building, Room 707 Bethesda, Maryland 20892 Please provide this office with two self-addressed labels. This advertisement does not commit the Government to award a contract. CARE AND HOUSING OF AIDS RESEARCH ANIMALS RFP AVAILABLE: NIH-NIAID-OSD-90-2 P.T. 34; K.W. 1002002, 0715008, 0715125 National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has a requirement for the care and housing of AIDS research animals. The Intramural Research Program, Office of the Scientific Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) has a Vol. 18, No. 7, March 3, 1989 - Page 3 requirement to house and maintain non-human primates and other small animals while conducting directed research studies with simian and human immunodeficiency viruses. Respondents must possess facilities capable of housing approximately 110 non-human primates (monkeys). It is required that such facilites have the the capacity to move air through the isolation units at a rate of 15 air changes per hour. The facility must have a back-up generator to compensate for any power failures that may occur. In addition, the facilities proposed by the offeror must include a waste disposal system capable of sterilizing all waste material prior to release into available sewage systems. Monkeys, caging, and isolation units will be provided by the Government. Any contract awarded will be subject to DHHS regulations regarding the use of animal subjects in research. One contract may be awarded as a result of this solicitation. It is expected that the contract will have a five-year period of performance. Any responsible offeror may submit a proposal which will be considered by the Government. RFP-NIH-NIAID-OSD-90-2 will be issued on or about March 7, 1989. Proposals will be due by close of business on April 21, 1989. Request for the RFP should be directed to: Mr. Thomas C. Porter Contract Specialist Contract Management Branch National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases National Institutes of Health Westwood Building, Room 707 Bethesda, Maryland 20892 Please provide this office with two self-addressed labels. This advertisement does not commit the Government to award a contract. ESTABLISHMENT AND MAINTENANCE OF AN ARMADILLO COLONY INFECTED WITH MYCOBACTERIUM LEPRAE RFP AVAILABLE: NIH-NIAID-MIDP-90-07 P.T. 34; K.W. 1002002, 1002029 National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), NIH, has a requirement for the propagation of Mycobacterium leprae in armadillos of the nine-banded species. A colony of 100 armadillos shall be maintained. From the infected tissues, Mycobacterium leprae cell and antigens shall be purified and sent to investigators to use in their particular research programs. One 5-year cost reimbursement contract is anticipated as a result of this solicitation. The solicitation package will be available on/or about March 16, 1989, with an anticipated closing date of May 2, 1989. Any responsible offeror may submit a proposal which will be considered by the Government. This is an announcement for an anticipated Request for Proposal (RFP). To receive a copy of the RFP, please supply this office with two self-addressed labels. Inquiries should be in writing and addressed to the office listed below. Ms. Rosemary McCabe Hamill National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases National Institutes of Health 5333 Westbard Avenue Westwood Building, Room 707 Bethesda, Maryland 20892 This advertisement does not commit the Government to award a contract. Vol. 18, No. 7, March 3, 1989 - Page 4 MENTAL RETARDATION RESEARCH CENTERS RFA AVAILABLE: HD-89-06 P.T. 04; K.W. 0715130, 0745027, 0715135, 1002008, 0404000, 0785055 National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Application Receipt Date: July 13, 1989 Letter of Intent Receipt Date: April 10, 1989 The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), through the Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities Branch (MRDD), Center for Research for Mothers and Children (CRMC), invites research center core grant applications (P30) to develop new knowledge in the field of prevention, treatment, and amelioration of mental retardation and developmental disabilities. Three centers may be supported in response to this announcement. The primary objective of the NICHD Mental Retardation Research Centers (MRRCs) is to provide support and facilities for a cohesive, interdisciplinary program of research and research training in mental retardation and related aspects of human development. NICHD has supported MRRCs through the provision of core grants (P30) which facilitate program coordination and support central research core units. Funds for the research projects using these core units come from independent sources including Federal, State and private organizations. This announcement seeks applications from existing MRRCs and from other comparable institutions that meet the qualifications for a program of mental retardation research. BACKGROUND A major goal of the MRDD Branch's research program is to prevent and/or ameliorate mental retardation. The degree of impairment associated with mental retardation varies in relation to the cause. Moderate and more severe mental retardation often results from problems that produce profound alterations in brain development and/or function. Diminished intellectual and adaptive capacity can often be traced to defective genes, teratogenic agents, infections, nutritional deficits, accidents, diseases and other disorders causing brain damage. A larger proportion of cases of mental retardation is related to environmental conditions and disorders of unknown etiology. These complex problems require integrated, multidisciplinary approaches involving biomedical and behavioral sciences in a variety of settings. The purpose of a Mental Retardation Research Center is to provide a research environment in which interdisciplinary collaboration among investigators who are working in areas of relevance to the prevention and amelioration of mental retardation is facilitated. Such research will cover a broad spectrum of scientific approaches ranging from laboratory research on fundamental processes of abnormal development to clinical and educational research in which persons with mental retardation are studied. It is thought that major solutions to the problems of mental retardation may be found as a result of multidisciplinary collaboration involving a variety of approaches in the Mental Retardation Research Centers. As a result of the administrative and scientific organization within a MRRC and across the network of MRRCs, opportunities for breakthroughs will be enhanced. RESEARCH SCOPE MRRC Core Grants are intended to bring together in a center a variety of disciplines to work on the common problems of mental retardation. Consequently, applications for Mental Retardation Center Core Grants (P30) should include investigators studying a range of topics in basic and clinical or applied research. Applicants are encouraged to include both biomedical and behavioral components from among the following topics: 1. Developmental neurobiological studies relevant to MRDD. 2. Inborn errors of metabolism relevant to MRDD. 3. Genetic/cytogenetic disorders associated with MRDD. 4. Molecular biology; development of animal models. 5. Toxicology and physical environmental factors in the etiology, treatment and prevention of MRDD. Vol. 18, No. 7, March 3, 1989 - Page 5 6. Intellectual, behavioral, physical and the intergenerational effects of malnutrition. 7. Developmental pharmacology and psychopharmacology. 8. Infectious diseases in the etiology, prevention and treatment of MRDD. 9. Diagnosis. 10. Perinatal problems associated with MRDD. 11. Psychobiological processes in MRDD. 12. Psychological processes in MRDD. 13. Early intervention for infants born at risk. 14. Behavioral analysis of MRDD individuals. 15. Family and community studies. 16. Language and communication of MRDD populations. 17. Learning disabilities, dyslexia, and attention deficit disorder. 18. Behavior in residential and educational settings. 19. Socioecological processes. 20. Epidemiology of MRDD. ELIGIBILITY Any of the following organizations are eligible to apply: Non-profit organizations and institutions; State and local governments and their agencies; and authorized Federal institutions. As stated in the NICHD Centers Guidelines, the NICHD will not support more than one NICHD center (P30, P50) in a given department or specialty unit. MECHANISM, SCOPE AND SCALE OF SUPPORT Mental Retardation Research Center grants will be supported through the customary grant-in-aid mechanism. Review of applications and management of grants will be subject to applicable policies for NIH research center grants. Awards will be made for a period of five years. To be eligible for award as an MRRC, the Center must provide core support for a minimum of 10 projects funded from non-university sources. The total direct costs requested for the first year may not exceed $500,000 for new grants and not more than 104 percent of the level recommended for the previous budget period of a competing renewal grant. Budgets of applications for new and renewal support will be stringently reviewed within these guidelines. Applications with budget request exceeding these guidelines will be administratively withdrawn by NICHD and returned to the applicant. ESTIMATED NUMBER OF AWARDS This is the third of a series of annual announcements. Plans are to make three awards in fiscal year 1990. WHERE COMPLETE RFA MAY BE OBTAINED A complete Request for Applications entitled "Mental Retardation Research Centers (P30)" and guidelines concerning "NICHD Research Centers Programs-Center Core Grants (P30)" may be obtained from: Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities Branch Center for Research for Mothers and Children, NICHD Executive Plaza North, Rm. 631 6130 Executive Boulevard Bethesda, Maryland 20892 Telephone: (301) 496-1383 This program is described in the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance No. l3.865 Research for Mothers and Children. Awards will be made under the authority of the Public Health Service Act, Section 30l (42 USC241) and administered under PHS grant policies and Federal Regulations 42 CFR Part 52 Vol. 18, No. 7, March 3, 1989 - Page 6 and 45 CFR Part 74. This program is not subject to review by a Health Systems Agency. ONGOING PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENTS STUDIES OF DIABETES MELLITUS AND RELATED PROBLEMS P.T. 34, FF; K.W. 0715075, 0710030, 0755030, 0765033, 0785055, 0745065 National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases National Institute of Aging National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases National Institute of Child Health and Human Development National Institute of Dental Research National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences National Eye Institute National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute National Institute of Mental Health National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke National Center for Nursing Research The above-named Institutes of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Alcohol, Drug Abuse and Mental Health Administration (ADAMHA), invite applications for research grants in the general area of diabetes mellitus and related problems. Investigators working in other areas of research are particularly encouraged to develop diabetes-related projects either independently or, where appropriate, in collaboration with individuals currently engaged in diabetes research. Biomedical and behavioral research studies related to diabetes in high risk minority populations, including Blacks, Hispanics, Native Americans, and Asian/Pacific Islanders, are also particularly encouraged. I. PROGRAM SPECIFICATIONS A. Program Objectives Diabetes mellitus and its complications are major public health problems in the United States today. The NIH and other organizations have attempted to encourage research into the cause, cure and prevention of diabetes and its related endocrinologic and metabolic disorders during the past several years. The National Diabetes Advisory Board has recently concluded an extensive updating of the original Long-Range Plan to Combat Diabetes Mellitus. It is anticipated that The National Long-Range Plan to Combat Diabetes, l987 (NIH publication No. 87-1587), will guide research efforts for the next 10 years. The Juvenile Diabetes Foundation International Second World Conference on Diabetes Research: New Frontiers l988 further emphasized the need to expand the diabetes research network. Both of these documents have delineated current opportunities and needs in various areas of diabetes research and have also recommended priorities for the future. B. Research Scope The emphasis of this solicitation is upon the research needs outlined in the National Long-Range Plan to Combat Diabetes, 1987, and the summary report of the Second World Conference on Diabetes Research. The areas of research recommended include: o Etiology and pathogenesis of IDDM o Etiology and pathogenesis of NIDDM o Complications of: The Vasculature; The Eye; The Nervous System; The Kidney; The Mouth and Teeth; and Pregnancy and Fetal Development o Hormone Action o Transplantation o Insulin Delivery Systems o Epidemiology o Aging, Glucose Intolerance, and NIDDM o Insulin Synthesis and Secretion o Pharmaceutical Agents o Hypertension, Diabetes, and the Kidney Vol. 18, No. 7, March 3, 1989 - Page 7 These recommendations are not necessarily all inclusive and any new ideas with creditable hypotheses that would appropriately fall within the scope of diabetes-related research could be the basis for an application. Copies of The National Long-Range Plan to Combat Diabetes, 1987, can be obtained upon request from: Diabetes Research Program Westwood Building, Room 622 National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases National Institutes of Health Bethesda, Maryland 20892 C. Mechanism of Support The mechanisms of support for this program will include the individual research project grant (R01), the First Independent Research Support and Transition (FIRST) Award (R29), research program project grant (PO1), the National Research Service Award (NRSA), and career awards such as the Clinical Investigator Awards and Physician Scientist Awards. Policies that govern research grant programs of the National Institutes of Health will prevail for the R01 and R29 awards. Applicants are encouraged to contact the appropriate Institute to determine the availability and the appropriate administrative procedures with regard to submission of a P01 application or a career award. The award of grants pursuant to this announcement is contingent upon receipt of highly original proposals of high scientific merit, responsiveness to this announcement, relevance to the program, and the availability of appropriated funds. II. METHOD AND CRITERIA OF REVIEW A. Assignment of Applications Applications will be received by the NIH Division of Research Grants (DRG), referred to an appropriate Study Section for scientific merit review, and assigned to individual Institutes for possible funding. Referral decisions will be governed by normal programmatic considerations as specified in the Referral Guidelines of the NIH, DRG. B. Review Procedures Applications in response to this solicitation will be reviewed on a nationwide basis in competition with other research grant applications and in accord with the usual NIH peer review procedures. Applications will first be reviewed for scientific and technical merit by a review group composed mostly of non-Federal scientific consultants (Study Section), and then by the National Advisory Council of the appropriate Institute(s). The review criteria customarily employed by the NIH for regular research grant applications will prevail. III. METHOD OF APPLYING Applications should be submitted on PHS Form 398, which is available in the business or grants and contracts office at most academic and research institutions. On the face page of PHS Form 398, indicate that the application was prepared in response to the Program Announcement entitled "Studies of Diabetes Mellitus and Related Problems". The original and six copies of the application should be sent or delivered to: Application Receipt Division of Research Grants National Institutes of Health Westwood Building, Room 240 Bethesda, Maryland 20892** Applications will be accepted in accordance with the usual NIH receipt dates for applications defined in the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts, Vol. 17, No. 14, April 15, 1988, page 1. For further information, investigators may contact one or more of the following individuals: Vol. 18, No. 7, March 3, 1989 - Page 8 B/I/D CONTACT BUILDING ROOM TELEPHONE NIDDK Dr. Joan T. Harmon Westwood 622 496-7731 NIA Dr. Evan C. Hadley 31 5C27 496-6761 NIAID Dr. Daniel I. Mullally Westwood 7A05 496-7375 NICHD Dr. Gilman D. Grave Executive 637 496-5593 Plaza North NIDR Dr. Anthony Rizzo Westwood 509 496-7784 NIEHS Dr. Thor Fjellstedt* 3 304A (919) 541-0131 NEI Dr. Jack A. McLaughlin 31 6A51 496-5983 NHLBI Dr. Barbara Packard 31 5A03 496-6331 NIMH Dr. Susan Blumenthal** Parklawn 11C-06 443-4337 NINDS Dr. Paul L. Nichols Federal 814 496-5821 NCNR Dr. Patricia McCormick 31 B1C02 496-0526 * Mailing address for Dr. Thor Fjellstedt is P.O. Box 12233, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709 ** Mailing address for Dr. Susan Blumenthal is 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20857 For all others, the mailing address is: Bethesda, Maryland 20892 All Maryland telephone numbers are in area code 301. ETHICAL AND LEGAL STUDIES RELATING TO THE PROGRAM TO MAP AND SEQUENCE THE HUMAN GENOME P.T. 34; K.W. 0783010, 1014004, 1215018, 0755045 Office of Human Genome Research National Institute of General Medical Sciences INTRODUCTION The National Institutes of Health (NIH), under the auspices of the Human Genome Project, is interested in receiving applications for research grants or conference grants addressing the ethical, social, and legal issues that may arise from the application of knowledge gained as a result of the Human Genome initiative. BACKGROUND The plan to map and sequence the entire human genome is predicated on belief in the immense potential benefit to humankind of the information to be gained through advances in medicine, biological research and the biotechnology industry. While the prospect of benefits is clear, many questions arise regarding the best way to ensure that the information is used in the most beneficial and responsible manner. The NIH is interested in examining these questions and stimulating public discussion in order to facilitate an understanding of the issues and the development of public policy and education, regarding the use of knowledge gained from the Human Genome initiative. RESEARCH SCOPE Applications may be for support of conferences or workshops, for scholarly research and writing projects, or for the development of materials to educate the public about the underlying genetic principles and the ethical, legal, and social issues arising from the Human Genome Program. Projects should address questions such as: o What are the concerns to society and to individuals arising from the Human Genome Project? o What specific questions in the broad area of ethics and law need to be addressed? o What can we learn from precedents? o What are possible policy alternatives and the pros and cons of each? o How can we inform and involve the public and stimulate broad discussion? Vol. 18, No. 7, March 3, 1989 - Page 9 It is essential that applicants address the full range of views on each issue covered in a responsible, scholarly, and balanced manner, with the goal of advancing scholarship, achieving better understanding, or working towards consensus or useful recommendations. While these questions are not intended to be limiting, projects should be relevant to issues raised by the scientific developments entailed in acquiring the complete DNA sequences of the human and other organisms. MECHANISMS OF SUPPORT Support for this program will be through research grants (R01) or conference grants (R13). Collaborative projects between biomedical scientists and ethicists, legal scholars, educators, and social scientists are encouraged. APPLICATION AND REVIEW PROCEDURE Applications received in response to this announcement will be reviewed by a special study section selected for expertise in the appropriate areas of ethics, law, medicine, biology, social science, and public education. Criteria for evaluating the applications will include: o Potential for producing new knowledge or new understanding. o Balance and breadth of approach. o Potential impact of the proposed project in terms of scholarly or lay audience reached. o Experience and expertise of the applicants. o Novelty of the project (i.e. does not duplicate other efforts). We are interested in attracting individuals with varied backgrounds to consider the prospects of the Human Genome Project. However, individuals must show that they either have or will obtain a sound working knowledge of the underlying biology so that relevance to the Human Genome Project can be assured. Applicants are strongly urged to contact NIH staff to discuss their plans before submitting an application. Although there is no set-aside of funds for this area of research, the Human Genome Project is prepared to spend 1 to 3 percent of its resources in the area, provided a sufficient number of high quality applications is received. METHOD OF APPLYING Applications should be submitted on the new form PHS 398 (rev. 9/86). Application kits are available at most institutional business offices and from: Office of Grants Inquiries Divison of Research Grants Westwood Building, Room 449 National Institutes of Health Bethesda, Maryland 20892 Applications will be accepted in accordance with the usual NIH receipt dates for new applications-- October 1, February 1, and June 1. It is essential that applicants type "Ethical and Legal studies relating to the program to map and sequence the human genome," in item 2 on the face page of the application form. The original and six copies of the application should be submitted to the following office. Application Receipt Office Division of Research Grants Westwood Building, Room 240 National Institutes of Health Bethesda, Maryland 20892** The conventional presentation for grant applications should be utilized (see instructions in application). Applications will be assigned to the most appropriate NIH Institute, depending on subject matter. Funding decisions will be based on recommendations of the initial review groups and the respective Institute's Advisory Council regarding scientific merit and program relevance and on the availability of funds. Vol. 18, No. 7, March 3, 1989 - Page 10 INQUIRIES Depending on the nature of the application, applications may be assigned to one of several NIH Institutes. Applicants are advised to call prior to submitting an application. Calls will be referred to staff of one of the NIH Institutes when appropriate. Please contact: Dr. Elke Jordan or Dr. Mark Guyer Office of Human Genome Research Shannon Building, Room 203 National Institutes of Health Bethesda, Maryland 20892 Telephone: (301) 496-0844 SPECIAL EMPHASIS RESEARCH CAREER AWARD (SERCA) IN LABORATORY ANIMAL SCIENCE P.T. 34; K.W. 0201058, 0710030 Division of Research Resources Application Receipt Date: June 1, 1989 BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The SERCA in Laboratory Animal Science, sponsored by the Laboratory Animal Sciences Program, Animal Resources Program (ARP), DRR, is meant to provide opportunities for veterinarians, trained in laboratory animal science, to develop greater research capabilities in broad fundamental and clinical disciplines. A multi-disciplinary approach to research opportunities in laboratory animal science is emphasized. This announcement is a modification of one issued previously. It is designed to clarify the eligibility requirements and give notice of a single receipt date. ELIGIBILITY Candidates for a SERCA in Laboratory Animal Science must: 1) hold a doctorate of veterinary medicine (or equivalent) degree from an accredited institution which is recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen U.S. national, or a non-citizen who has been admitted to the U.S. for permanent residence at the time of the application; 2) possess a minimum of two years post-DVM research experience which includes at least one year of training and/or experience in clinical laboratory animal medicine or comparative pathology. Additional training, as well as board certification in laboratory animal medicine, are desirable; 3) be nominated by an institution on the basis of personal qualifications, interests, accomplishments, motivation and potential for a research career; 4) have an advisor who is a recognized senior investigator in the field of the proposed study and with an academic appointment at the parent institution; and, 5) agree to inform the ARP staff of academic status, publications, and grants or contracts received which are related to the research focus of this award for a period of five years after completion of the SERCA. This should be done on an annual basis. Prospective applicants are encouraged to discuss their potential eligibility for the SERCA program with ARP staff before preparing an application. PROVISIONS OF THE AWARD The SERCA provides five years of support for a multidisciplinary approach to research investigation and development. Awards are made on an annual basis, and are subject to the availability of funds. During the first three years of SERCA support, the awardee is expected to develop capabilities in fundamental, applied and/or clinical research related to basic and clinical science aspects of laboratory animal science. Prior to the completion of the third year of SERCA support, the awardee should submit an application for the final two years (years 04 and 05) of the award directly to the ARP, DRR, NIH. This application should include detailed plans for an expanded research program to be conducted during the last two years of the award. This research outline, of the awardee's own design, must relate to basic and/or clinical science aspects of laboratory animal science. The proposal will be evaluated for scientific merit by outside peer reviewers. This scientific evaluation, along with the overall progress made during the initial three years of support, will be considered by ARP staff in determining the candidate's eligibility for funding for the last two years. If the Vol. 18, No. 7, March 3, 1989 - Page 11 proposal is not favorably recommended, the continuation of SERCA support will be reconsidered. Allowable costs may include: 1. Awardee's Salary: A maximum of $40,000 for salary support may be requested. Institutional supplementation is permitted but not by funds from other Federal sources. Fringe benefits will be provided. 2. Research Support: This support is limited to $8,000/year for the initial three years and $15,000/year for the last two years. It may include: specialized research equipment, consumable supplies, and other costs which are essential to the proposed program and tuition for training courses. 3. Indirect Costs: Funds may be requested for reimbursement of institutional indirect costs at a rate up to, but not to exceed, 8 percent of the total allowable direct costs of the award. APPLICATION JUNE 1 WILL BE THE ONLY APPLICATION RECEIPT DATE. Applications must be submitted on Form PHS-398 (Rev. 9-86). This form is available from the Business or Research Offices at most academic institutions. In completing the application, use the instructions in Form PHS-398 as a guideline. For information on those items which require additional explanation, a detailed description of the SERCA should be obtained from the Director, Laboratory Animal Sciences Program, at the address listed below. The completed application materials consisting of the original application, six complete copies of the application and four copies of each reprint (not more than five reprints), should be mailed to: Division of Research Grants National Institutes of Health Westwood Building, Room 240 Bethesda, Maryland 20892** The initial review of SERCA applications for scientific and technical merit will be made by the Animal Resources Review Committee, DRR. Particular attention will be given to the candidate's prior training and experience, career potential, research career development plans, proposed research, environment, reference reports, and other relevant information. The application must clearly demonstrate that the award will enhance the candidate's development as an independent investigator. Following later consideration and approval by the National Advisory Research Resources Council, the applications will be considered for funding on the basis of the overall merit of the proposal as determined by the review committee, relevance of the proposal to the research objectives of the ARP, DRR, and the availability of funds. The earliest award date will be April 1, 1990. Approximately 35-40 awards are expected to be made under this announcement. Questions concerning this SERCA program should be addressed to: Director Laboratory Animal Sciences Program, ARP Division of Research Resources National Institutes of Health Westwood Building, Room 853 5333 Westbard Avenue Bethesda, Maryland 20892 Telephone: (301) 496-5175 A MORE COMPLETE DESCRIPTION AND GUIDELINES FOR APPLYING FOR A SERCA IN LABORATORY ANIMAL MEDICINE MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF RESEARCH RESOURCES AT THE ABOVE ADDRESS. EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDIES OF PERSONS WITH MENTAL DISORDERS THAT CO-OCCUR WITH ALCOHOL AND/OR DRUG ABUSE DISORDERS P.T. 34; K.W. 0715129, 0404003, 0404009, 0785055 National Institute of Mental Health National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism National Institute on Drug Abuse The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), and the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) seek applications for research into the epidemiology of mental Vol. 18, No. 7, March 3, 1989 - Page 12 disorders co-occurring with alcohol and/or drug abuse disorders among a nationally representative sample of adults ages 15-54 years. The administration of a structured psychiatric interview instrument appropriate for epidemiological studies will be required. Support may be requested through applications for a regular research grant, Small Grant, First Independent Research Support and Transition (FIRST) Award, ADAMHA Scientist Development Award, and ADAMHA Scientist Development Award for Clinicians. Applicants may request support for up to 5 years (with the exception of small grant applications, which are limited to 2 years). It is anticipated that up to $2.5 million will be available to support new grant awards under this announcement during fiscal year 1989. Funding in future years will depend on annual appropriations. NIMH, NIAAA and NIDA will accept applications on the one-time special receipt date of May 15, 1989; thereafter, dates for the submission of applications and review cycles will be according to the usual Public Health Service schedule for new applications. Potential applicants are encouraged to discuss their planned research with one of the staff listed below before submitting a formal grant application: National Institute of Mental Health Mary E. Farmer, M.D., M.P.H. Division of Clinical Research NIMH, Room 10C-05 Telephone: (301) 443-3774 National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Tom Harford, Ph.D. Director, Division of Biometry and Epidemiology NIAAA, Room 14C-26 Telephone: (301) 443-3306 National Institute on Drug Abuse Edgar H. Adams, Sc.D. Director, Division of Epidemiology and Statistical Analysis NIDA, Room 11A-55 Telephone: (301) 443-6504 The address for all of the above is: 5600 Fishers Lane Rockville, Maryland 20857 PREVENTIVE PULMONARY ACADEMIC AWARD P.T. 34; K.W. 0715165, 0745027, 0404019 National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Application Receipt Date: July 24, 1989 The Division of Lung Diseases (DLD), National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), announces the fourth competition for the Preventive Pulmonary Academic Award. The dual objectives of this award are to encourage: (1) the development and/or improvement of the teaching of prevention of respiratory diseases in both undergraduate and graduate medical training, and (2) research in methods for the prevention of lung diseases. It is anticipated that approximately four awards will be made. ELIGIBILITY: A candidate for this award must be a physician, with both clinical and academic skills, who is an established faculty member in an accredited academic medical institution. The candidate must commit a minimum of 50 percent effort to the program. An institution sponsoring a candidate for the award must show commitment to developing and improving the teaching of prevention of lung diseases, identifying educational resources, allowing time for the awardee to acquire educational skills, and providing facilities for research. Vol. 18, No. 7, March 3, 1989 - Page 13 PROVISION OF THE AWARD: This award will provide up to $40,000 salary support for the awardee, plus appropriate fringe benefits and up to $20,000 a year for related research support. In addition, each awardee may apply for up to $10,000 for technical assistance (see pages 4-5 of the Guidelines for this award); the use of these funds will be coordinated among other awardees and must be approved by the Division of Lung Diseases, NHLBI. Funds will be provided for the reimbursement of actual indirect costs at a rate up to, but not exceeding, eight percent of the total direct costs of each award, exclusive of tuition, fees, and expenditures for equipment. CURRICULA DEVELOPMENT: Curricula topics which might be addressed include identification of and interventions with populations at risk for respiratory diseases, prevention of respiratory infections, methods for encouraging smoking cessation, and respiratory disturbances during sleep. RESEARCH PLANS: Research topics might include methods of intervening with populations at risk, methods for teaching prevention, smoking cessation, self-management of chronic lung diseases, and cost effectiveness of preventive measures. Educational and/or behavioral approaches to the prevention of respiratory diseases and/or the promotion of lung health are encouraged. LETTER OF INTENT: Prospective applicants are asked to submit a one-page letter of intent. Such letters are requested for the purpose of obtaining an indication of the number of applications to be received, and therefore the NHLBI usually does not acknowledge their receipt. A letter of intent is not binding, nor is it a necessary requirement for application. This letter should be received no later than June 16, 1989, and sent to: C. James Scheirer, Ph.D. Contract, Clinical Trials, and Training Review Section Review Branch Division of Extramural Affairs, NHLBI Westwood Building, Room 648 Bethesda, Maryland 20892 TIMETABLE: Letter of Intent: June 16, 1989 Application Receipt Date: July 24, 1989 Technical Review (which may include interviews conducted by the Division of Extramural Affairs in Bethesda, Maryland, with applicants): October/November 1989 Advisory Council Review: February 8-9, 1990 Award Date: June 1, 1990 Requests for Guidelines for the Preventive Pulmonary Academic Award (Revision 1/89) should be directed to: Joan M. Wolle, Ph.D., M.P.H. Health Scientist Administrator Prevention, Education, and Research Training Branch Division of Lung Diseases, NHLBI Westwood Building, Room 640 Bethesda, Maryland 20892 Telephone: (301) 496-7668 This program is described in the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance number 13.838. Awards will be made under the authority of the Public Health Service Act, Title III, Section 301 (Public Law 78-410, as amended; 42 USC 241) and administered under PHS grant policies and Federal Regulations most specifically 42 CFR Part 52 and 45 CFR Part 74. This program is not subject to intergovernmental review requirements of Executive Order 12372 or to Health Systems Agency Review. Vol. 18, No. 7, March 3, 1989 - Page 14 FULL TEXT OF RFAs FOR ONLINE ACCESS REQUEST FOR RESEARCH CENTER CORE GRANT APPLICATIONS: RFA HD-89-06 P.T. 04; K.W. 0715130, 0745027, 0715135, 1002008, 0404000, 0785055 MENTAL RETARDATION RESEARCH CENTERS (P30) NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF CHILD HEALTH AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT Application Receipt Date: July 13, 1989 I. INTRODUCTION The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD). through the Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities Branch (MRDD), Center for Research for Mothers and Children (CRMC), invites research center core grant applications (P30) as part of the Institute's Mental Retardation Research Program to develop new knowledge in the field of diagnosis, prevention, treatment, and amelioration of mental retardation and developmental disabilities. Three centers may be supported in response to this announcement. A Mental Retardation Research Center (MRRC) is a center to facilitate, through organization and operation, a program of biomedical and behavioral research related to mental retardation. Mental Retardation Research Center core grants support multidisciplinary research in areas which may lead to diagnosis, prevention, treatment, and amelioration of mental retardation and developmental disabilities. These grants fund core support services, administration, and development of a limited number of new research programs. The primary objective of the NICHD Mental Retardation Research Centers Program is to provide support and facilities for a cohesive, interdisciplinary program of research and research training in mental retardation and related aspects of human development. Public Law 88-164, Title I, Part A authorized construction of mental retardation research centers. NICHD has provided partial support for a limited number of these centers through the provision of core grants (P30) which facilitate program coordination and support central research facilities. Funds for the research projects using these core facilities come from independent sources including Federal, State and private organizations. This announcement seeks applications not only from these constructed centers but also from other comparable institutions that meet the qualifications for a program of mental retardation research. ____________________________________________________________________ This program is described in the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance No. 13.865 Research for Mothers and Children. Awards will be made under the authority of the Public Health Service Act, Section 301 (42 USC241) and administered under PHS grant policies and Federal Regulations 42 CFR Part 52 and 45 CFR Part 74. This program is not subject to review by a Health Systems Agency. II. BACKGROUND A major goal of the MRDD Branch's Mental Retardation Research Centers Program is to prevent and/or ameliorate mental retardation. The degree of impairment associated with mental retardation varies in relation to the cause. Moderate and more severe mental retardation often results from problems that produce profound alterations in brain development and/or function. Diminished intellectual and adaptive capacity can often be traced to defective genes, teratogenic agents, toxic substances, infections, nutritional deficits, accidents, diseases and other disorders causing brain damage. A larger proportion of cases of mental retardation is related to environmental conditions and disorders of unknown etiology. These complex problems require integrated, multidisciplinary approaches involving biomedical and behavioral sciences in a variety of settings. More than 300 mental retardation syndromes have been identified, and new ones are being discovered. Each requires fundamental research into the underlying processes, as well as studies designed to meet the unique needs of the afflicted children. Therefore, one of the missions of the MRDD Branch is to support research on the etiology, pathophysiology, epidemiology, diagnosis and evaluation, prevention or amelioration of mental retardation. The purpose of a Mental Retardation Research Center is to provide a research environment in which interdisciplinary collaboration among investigators who are working in areas of relevance to the prevention and amelioration of mental retardation is facilitated. Such research will cover a broad spectrum of scientific approaches ranging from laboratory research on fundamental processes of normal and abnormal development to clinical and behavioral research in which persons with mental retardation are studied. It is thought that major solutions to the problems of mental retardation may be found as a result of multidisciplinary collaboration involving a variety of approaches in the Mental Retardation Research Centers. As a result of the administrative and scientific organization within a MRRC and across the network of MRRC's, opportunities for breakthroughs will be enhanced. III. RESEARCH SCOPE Mental Retardation Research Center Core Grants are intended to bring together in a center scientists from a variety of disciplines to work on the common problems of mental retardation. Consequently, applications for Mental Retardation Center Core Grants (P30) should include investigators studying a range of topics in basic and clinical or applied research. Applicants are encouraged, but are not required, to include both biomedical and behavioral components among the topics addressed within their center. Center grant applications must include among these topics at least 5 of the following: 1. Developmental neurobiological studies relevant to MRDD: neurophysio- logical, neuroanatomical, neurochemical, neuropharmacological. 2. Inborn errors of metabolism relevant to MRDD: pathophysiology, recombinant DNA technology, screening, applied clinical and experimental studies, including treatment. 3. Genetic/cytogenetic disorders associated with MRDD: antenatal diagnosis research on prevalent genetic causes of mental retardation such as Down syndrome or Fragile X syndrome; research on rare genetic disorders associated with mental retardation. 4. Molecular biology: gene localization, structure, function and organization; gene mapping; gene therapy; and development of animal models. 5. Toxicology and physical environmental factors in the etiology, treatment and prevention of MRDD; developmental and behavioral teratology; subclinical levels of toxic agents and their effects on morphological and behavioral changes associated with mental retardation. 6. Effects of malnutrition (Protein, calorie, micronutrients) on intellectual, behavioral, social and physical development and the intergenerational effects of malnutrition. 7. Developmental pharmacology and psychopharmacology: medication used with MRDD populations. 8. Infectious diseases in the etiology, prevention and treatment of MRDD; neurological, neuropathological, behavioral and intellectual consequences of AIDS in children. 9. Diagnosis: development and application of biomedical and behavioral methods and measures; identification of children and infants at risk for MRDD. 10. Predictive and developmental studies of perinatal problems associated with MRDD: developmental studies of low birth weight, small for gestational age, preterm and neonatally sick infants. 11. Psychobiological processes in MRDD of conditions such as autism and Rett syndrome using methods of behavioral genetics, embryology and teratology, developmental neuroscience and psychophysiology. 12. Psychological processes in MRDD: Studies of cognitive and information processing; attention and perception; sensory and motor development; family, social and affective behavior; and, motivation and personality. 13. Early interventions for infants born at risk: research into the process of early intervention strategies. 14. Behavioral analyses: manipulations of interaction between behavior and environments of individuals with MRDD to reduce problem behaviors, facilitate vocational training, improve social and self-help skills, and increase acquisition of adaptive behaviors. 15. Family and community studies: Parent-child and family interactions; sexual behaviors; family structure and demographic variables; family and community factors influencing developmental outcomes and adjustment; community resources; caregiver behavior; social support networks; and the effects of children with MRDD on family life. 16. Language and communication of MRDD populations: studies on development of alternative communication systems; ontogeny of linguistic processes. 17. Learning disabilities, dyslexia, and attention deficit disorder. 18. Residential and educational setting: effects on behavior and adjustment of MRDD individuals; learning and social behavior in educational settings; adaptation to residential environments; aberrant behavior, e.g. self-injury. 19. Socioecological processes: interaction of MRDD individuals in multiple settings (naturalistic observation); ethnographic research; life history reporting; systematic observation of specific activities. 20. Epidemiology of MRDD: analytic and case-control studies of etiology; prevalence; follow-up of outcomes. IV. MECHANISM, SCOPE AND SCALE OF SUPPORT Mental Retardation Research Center grants will be supported through the customary grant-in-aid mechanism. Review of applications and management of grants will be subject to applicable policies for NIH research center grants. Awards will be made for a period of 5 years. To be eligible for award as an MRRC, the center must provide core support for a minimum of 10 research projects funded from non-university sources. The total direct costs requested for the first year may not exceed $500,000 for new grants nor more than 104% of the level recommended for the previous budget period for a competing renewal grant unless the latter is less than $500,000. Budget increments for subsequent years generally will be limited to no more than 4%. Budgets of applications for new and renewal support will be stringently reviewed within these guidelines. Applications with budget requests exceeding these guidelines will be administratively withdrawn by NICHD and returned to the applicant. V. METHOD OF APPLYING AND APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS A Health Scientist Administrator in the MRDD Branch will advise prospective applicants prior to submitting a proposal on relevance of proposed concepts to the mission of the NICHD Mental Retardation Research Centers. A. Guidelines Detailed guidelines are found in "NICHD Research Centers Programs-Center Core Grant (P30) Guidelines" (hereafter called "NICHD Centers Guidelines"). This document may be obtained from: MRDD Branch, CRMC National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Room 631, Executive Plaza North 9000 Rockville Pike Bethesda, Maryland 20892 Telephone: (301) 496-1383 B. Eligibility Any of the following organizations from the U.S. are eligible to apply: Nonprofit organizations and institutions; State and local governments and their agencies; and authorized Federal institutions. C. Letter of Intent If an investigator is satisfied that his/her institution meets the qualifications prescribed and elects to apply for a Mental Retardation Research Center grant (P30), a letter of intent is requested (but not required) to be submitted to the MRDD Program staff at the address given above. The letter of intent should include a descriptive title, should name the director and collaborators, and should identify the core unit directors and principal investigators of the research projects that would use the core unit services. It should be submitted by April 10, 1989. D. The Application The applicant should submit the application using PHS 398 (revised 9/86). Application kits containing this form and the necessary instructions are available in most institutional business offices or may be obtained from the Division of Research Grants, NIH. The NICHD recommends that the application be developed in consultation with the MRDD Program staff, CRMC, who will provide whatever guidance is possible and appropriate in relation to both scientific and administrative issues. Applicants for P30 Mental Retardation Research Center grants must propose a program with a theme relevant to the mission of the MRDD Branch as outlined above. The program should consist of at least 10 externally funded research projects grouped according to relevant topics. These projects must be of high quality, providing a multidisciplinary approach to the problem(s) being investigated. Each project is to be summarized in accordance with the NICHD Centers Guidelines. The MRRC Director should be a scientist or science administrator who can provide effective administrative and scientific leadership. The Director will be responsible for the organization and operation of the MRRC and for communication with the NICHD on scientific and operational matters. Scientific personnel and institutional resources capable of providing a strong research base in the fields specified must be available. In addition, the institution and pertinent departments have to show a strong commitment to the center's support. Such commitment may be provided as dedicated space, salary support for investigators, dedicated equipment, or other financial support for the proposed MRRC. Each core unit proposed for funding under the MRRC grant must be utilized by at least three federally funded research projects, one of which is NIH funded, exclusive of research contracts, interagency agreements, and NIH-supplemental projects funded by other agencies. Subprojects within a program project (POl) will be considered as individual projects comparable to an ROl. A detailed description of each core unit proposed as part of the center must be provided with detailed budget and budget justification. A scientist must be named as responsible for each core unit proposed. The description of the core units proposed should include a rationale to show how they will support the research effort in a cost effective manner. Facilities must be available for the primary needs of the MRRC Program and require no more than modest alteration and/or renovation. Funds for new construction will not be provided. Promoting interdisciplinary collaboration among scientists working within a Center is a major goal of the MRRC Program. Each MRRC applicant should submit a plan, as part of the application, to assure continuing interaction among part:cipating scientists from different disciplines. Another goal of the MRRC Program is to attract scientists to the field of mental retardation research. Therefore, where appropriate, the applicant may request "New Program Development" funds for direct research support of one or more projects, not to exceed a total of $50,000 per year or 10% of total direct cost, whichever is less. Such funds might serve to attract new investigators to the Center, to develop a new area or program of research, or to facilitate the development of newly trained investigators' research programs. New Program Development proposals should be comparable to ROl research proposals. Each such proposal can provide support for only two years for any one investigator. It is a major goal of the NICHD to promote active collaboration among MRRCs. To accomplish this goal, the successful applicants will be encouraged to participate in the collaborative efforts of established MRRC programs. Some consideration should be given, in planning the program, to potential collaborative studies and projects which might be proposed for the MRRC network. VI. TIMETABLE FOR RECEIPT AND REVIEW OF APPLICATIONS A. Receipt Date This is the third of a series of annual announcements. Plans are to make three awards in fiscal year 1990. The original and four copies of the application are due in the Division of Research Grants on or before July 13, 1989. NICHD will not accept any applications in response to this announcement for new grants with first year budget requests exceeding $500,000 in direct costs. Applications must be sent to: Application Receipt Office Division of Research Grants National Institutes of Health Westwood Building, Room 240 5333 Westbard Avenue Bethesda, Maryland 20892 The RFA label contained in the application kit should be affixed at the bottom of the face page of the application. Failure to use this label could delay processing of the application and delay assignment to the appropriate review committee. Applications should be identified by checking the "yes" box in Item Number 2 on the face page of the application and typing in the words "In response to RFA-HD-89-06, Mental Retardation Research Center Grant (P30)." In addition, a brief covering letter should accompany the application indicating that it is in response to this RFA. A copy of the covering letter and two copies of the application should be sent to: Director, Scientific Review Program National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Executive Plaza North, Room 520 9000 Rockville Pike Bethesda, Maryland 20892 B. Review Schedule Applications received in response to this RFA will be reviewed with each other on a nationwide competitive basis. The initial review for scientific merit will be carried out by the NICHD Mental Retardation Research Committee (MRRC) at its March 1990 meeting. Because a site visit is not a prerequisite for MRRC consideration, each application should be thorough and complete enough to stand on its own. The second-level review will be made by the National Advisory Child Health and Human Development Council at its June, 1990 meeting, for funding beginning August 1990. VII. REVIEW CRITERIA Upon receipt, applications will be reviewed by NICHD staff for responsiveness to this announcement. Those applications judged not responsive, or new applications with a first year budget request exceeding $500,000 in direct costs, will be returned to the applicant organization in care of the principal investigator. Applications judged responsive will be reviewed under the criteria specified in the NICHD Centers Guidelines. Factors to be considered by the NICHD review committee in evaluating each MRRC grant application are: 1. Significance of the proposed research program to the mission of the MRDD Branch. 2. Scope and breadth of the center's program, core units, and research projects. 3. Multidisciplinary scope of the program and provision for coordinating the research projects and core units. 4. Leadership ability and scientific stature of the program director and his/her ability to meet the program's demands of time and effort. The review of the projects and core units will consider: 1. Technical merit and justification of each core unit. 2. Evidence of cost effectiveness and quality control of core units. 3. Scientific merit of those projects requesting core access that are funded from sources other than NIH, PHS or NSF. 4. The quality and productivity of research projects using the core facilities. 5. The appropriateness of the research projects' use of core services. 6. Qualifications, experience, and commitment of the investigators responsible for the research projects or core units and their ability to devote the required time and effort to the program. 7. Appropriateness of the total budget and budgetary requests for the administrative core, research related core units, new program development projects, and overall administrative costs. 8. Accomplishments and progress to date of the core units and research projects particularly for competing continuation (renewal) and supplemental applications. 9. As appropriate, the adequacy of the means for protecting against risks to human subjects, animals and/or environment. 10. Participation of a suitable number of responsible, experienced investigators. 11. Academic and physical environment as it bears on patients, space and equipment and on the potential for interaction among scientists within the center and with scientists from other departments, institutions and MRRCs. 12. Arrangements for internal quality control of ongoing research, the allocation of funds, day-to-day management, contractual agreements, the internal communication and cooperation among investigators in the program. 13. Presence of an administrative and organizational structure conducive to attaining the objectives of the proposed program. 14. Institutional commitment to the requirements of the program. VIII. FUNDING Although this program is included and provided for in the financial plans for FY 1990, award of Mental Retardation Research Center grants is contingent upon ultimate allocation of appropriated funds for this purpose. IX. STAFF CONTACT For further information, potential applicants may write to or call the Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities Branch, Center for Research for Mothers and Children, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, (301) 496-1383. SUPPLEMENTAL INSTRUCTIONS - SPECIAL EMPHASIS RESEARCH CAREER AWARD IN LABORATORY ANIMAL SCIENCE (SERCA) P.T. 34; K.W. 0201058, 0710030 Division of Research Resources Summary Administrative requirements. The SERCA award is a five-year, nontransferable, non-renewable award. The maximum salary from this award may not exceed $40,000 a year. Fringe benefits from the award will be based on the salary awarded by NIH. Salary supplements may not be made from other Federal sources. The applicant must agree to devote at least 75 percent effort to research. Research support may be requested up to the amount of $8,000 per year for the first three years and $15,000 per year the last two years. The applicant must agree to keep the Animal Resources Program (ARP), Division of Research Resources (DRR), National Institutes of Health (NIH), informed of his/her research and training activities for a period of five years following completion of this support. Applicant eligibility requirements. The applicant must hold a degree in veterinary medicine (D.V.M., V.M.D., or equivalent), be a U.S. citizen, noncitizen U.S. national, or a noncitizen who has been admitted to the U.S. for permanent residence; and have at least two years of post-D.V.M. research experience which includes the equivalent of at least one year of training and/or experience in clinical laboratory animal medicine or comparative pathology in a research environment. Program requirements. The applicant must propose a senior scientist as a mentor to guide the first three years of the award period. The mentor must agree to be available to counsel, advise, and monitor the applicant's research at frequent intervals. In addition, three letters of reference are required from investigators in the applicant's field of scientific interest or in a closely related field. The scientific substance of the applicant's work must be described. In the initial application, the applicant should describe a plan and objectives for enhancing his/her research skills during the first three years of the award and specific plans for meeting these objectives. The outline of a meritorious research program to be accomplished as an independent investigator during the final two years of the award must also be included. During the third year of support and as part of the annual progress report, the awardee must provide a detailed research plan for the last two years. This proposal will be evaluated for scientific merit by outside peer reviewers. Program staff in the ARP, DRR, will evaluate progress throughout the initial three-year period. This evaluation, along with the scientific review of the proposal submitted for the final two years, will be used to determine the applicant's eligibility for continued funding for the fourth and fifth years. Detailed background information and application procedures are attached. SPECIAL EMPHASIS RESEARCH CAREER AWARD IN LABORATORY ANIMAL SCIENCE (SERCA) I. INTRODUCTION These guidelines summarize current policies governing the Special Emphasis Research Career Award (SERCA) in Laboratory Animal Science which is offered by the Animal Resources Program (ARP), Division of Research Resources (DRR), National Institutes of Health (NIH). This special award is designed to develop multidisciplinary veterinary researchers who will direct their research toward refining the use of laboratory animals in biomedical research, the study of significant laboratory animal disease problems occurring in vivarial settings, and the development of new animal models useful in solving biomedical research problems. This award emphasizes in-depth experience for the laboratory animal specialist in various fundamental and clinical scientific disciplines. During the initial three year period, the awardee is expected to develop capabilities in fundamental, applied, and/or clinical research. During the final 2 years, the awardee is expected to undertake a multidisciplinary research program aimed at providing a better understanding of a laboratory animal disease problem and/or the development or utilization of an animal model in solving a biomedical research problem. This award is not intended for investigators who are already established in a research field. The applicant must not have been designated previously as Principal Investigator on any Public Health Service (PHS)-supported research project. II. BACKGROUND Laboratory animals are used in approximately half of all research projects supported by the NIH. The SERCA is intended to stimulate the development of research on laboratory animal disease problems and the further application of these findings to the solving of human health- related research problems. Some of the opportunities available include the use of laboratory animal diagnostic laboratories and other biomedical resources, identification and development of new animal models for studies of human diseases, further characterization of these models, and the use of several species which have similar diseases to develop composite models which may be useful in solving human health problems. III. OBJECTIVES OF THE AWARD The SERCA provides opportunities for a biomedical investigator with a background of training and experience in veterinary medicine and laboratory animal science and who wishes to develop expertise in broad fundamental and clinical research disciplines. This expertise is essential for the development of a multidisciplinary approach to research opportunities in laboratory animal science and for the most effective use of laboratory animal health disorders for solving important human health problems. The SERCA is intended to: o Encourage qualified individuals, in the early stages of their scientific careers, to develop research interests and skills in disciplines such as laboratory animal medicine, pathology, microbiology, genetics, immunology, biochemistry, and the behavioral sciences. o Provide support for qualified individuals to pursue programs of research in fundamental and clinical research disciplines related to laboratory animal science. These areas include the investigation of health problems in laboratory animals and the development of appropriate animal models for use in studies of human disease. o Create a pool of highly qualified laboratory animal investigators with experience and skills in clinical and basic science disciplines. These investigators should possess in-depth experience in specific research disciplines and broad knowledge in related fields of interest. IV. PROVISIONS OF THE AWARD The SERCA provides five years of support for a multidisciplinary approach to research investigation and development. Awards are made on an annual basis, and are subject to the availability of funds. During the first three years of SERCA support, the awardee is expected to develop capabilities in fundamental, applied and/or clinical research related to basic and clinical science aspects of laboratory animal science. These activities should be focused on a specific research area. Exposure to several research disciplines, such as physiology, biochemistry, genetics, immunology, pathology, microbiology, pharmacology, nutrition and epidemiology should be included in plans presented in the initial application. The awardee is encouraged to pursue these activities in several laboratories at an institution. In addition to the funds for salary and fringe benefits, a maximum of $8,000 direct costs per year may be requested for research support (see Section B.) during this three year developmental phase. Annual progress reports are required for administrative review by ARP staff. Four months prior to the completion of the third year of SERCA support, the awardee should submit an application for the final two years (years 04 and 05) of the award directly to the ARP, DRR, NIH. This application should include detailed plans for an expanded research program to be conducted during the last two years of the award. This research outline, of the awardee's own design, must relate to basic and/or clinical science aspects of laboratory animal science. The application should also summarize progress made during the first three years of SERCA support. It should include a detailed budget for research support (not to exceed $15,000 per year direct costs), in addition to the applicant's salary and fringe benefits. The proposal will be evaluated for scientific merit by outside peer reviewers. This scientific evaluation, along with overall progress made during the initial three years of support, will be considered by ARP staff in determining the candidate's eligibility for funding for the last two years. If the proposal is not favorably recommended, the continuation of SERCA support will be reconsidered. As detailed above, the SERCA grant is made annually to the awardee's academic institution for each of the five budget periods. Allowable costs may include: A. Awardee's Salary: A maximum of $40,000 for salary support may be requested. Institutional supplementation is permitted but not by funds from other Federal sources. Fringe benefits will be provided. B. Research Support: This support is limited to $8,000/year for the initial three years and $15,000/year for the last two years. It may include: Equipment: Specialized research equipment essential to the proposed program. However, available institutional facilities should include most of the necessary equipment. Supplies: Consumable supplies essential to the proposed program. Tuition for training courses: If essential to the awardee's individual project. Other Costs: Funds for technical assistance, consultant costs, domestic travel, publication costs and other appropriate expenses which are essential to the proposed project. C. Indirect Costs. Funds may be requested for reimbursement of institutional indirect costs at a rate up to, but not to exceed, 8% of the total allowable direct costs of the award. V. CRITERIA FOR ELIGIBILITY Candidates for a SERCA in Laboratory Animal Science must: 1. Hold a doctorate of veterinary medicine (or equivalent) degree from an accredited institution which is recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen U.S. national, or a non-citizen who has been admitted to the U.S. for permanent residence at the time of the application. 2. Possess a minimum of two years post-DVM research experience which includes the equivalent of at least one year of training and/or experience in clinical laboratory animal medicine or comparative pathology. This must be well documented in the application. Additional training, as well as board certification in laboratory animal medicine, are desirable. 3. Be nominated by an institution on the basis of personal qualifications, interests, accomplishments, motivation and potential for a research career. Evidence of the institution's commitment to the candidate's research development must be provided. It is not essential that the applicant institution commit itself to the eventual placement of the candidate on its permanent full-time faculty, but it is expected that the institution will select candidates with excellent potential for such an appointment. 4. Have an advisor who is a recognized senior investigator in the field of the proposed study and with an academic appointment at the parent institution. A program (which may involve travel to other institutions) in which the awardee will receive development and research experience in preparation for a future career of independent research should be planned with the advisor's assistance. The candidate's proposed research activities during the initial three years of the award must be described in detail. 5. Agree to inform the ARP staff of academic status, publications, and grants or contracts received which are related to the research focus of this award for a period of five years after completion of the SERCA. This should be done on an annual basis. Prospective applicants are encouraged to discuss their potential eligibility for the SERCA program with ARP, DRR staff before preparing an application. VI. APPLICATION PROCEDURES JUNE 1 WILL BE THE ONLY APPLICATION RECEIPT DATE. Applications must be submitted on Form PHS-398 (Revised 9/86). This form is available from the Business or Research Offices at most academic institutions, or may be obtained from: National Institutes of Health Division of Research Grants Office of Grants Inquiries Westwood Bldg., Room 449 5333 Westbard Avenue Bethesda, MD 20892 (301) 496-7441 In completing the application, follow the detailed instructions in Form PHS-398. Items in the application form which require additional explanation for the SERCA are listed below. If additional space is needed to complete any of these items, use continuation pages and identify each item with its number and title. I. SECTION 1 A. PAGE 1 (FACE PAGE) Numbers below refer to items on the Face Page: 1. Item 1 - Item 1 should be the title of the research project. 2. Item 2 - Check "yes", and write the name of the award, "SERCA-DRR". 3. Item 6 - The total project period must be for five consecutive years. B. PAGE 2 1. Abstract of Research Plan. This should be an abstract of the entire application, not just the research plan. The three principal components of this application, i.e., the candidate, the research, and the environment should be summarized. 2. Professional Personnel Engaged on Project. The candidate's primary and secondary (if applicable) sponsor(s) should be listed. C. PAGES 4 AND 5 Follow Form PHS-398 instructions except as shown below: 1. Salary of Awardee: The awardee will be provided salary support not to exceed $40,000 per year (plus fringe benefits) during the period of the award. Time/effort committed to SERCA activities must be at least 75%. Information must be included in the application to justify the total salary and fringe benefits requested, including any grantee institution supplementation. Fringe benefits may be requested only on the NIH portion of the salary. The following details must be listed as part of the budget justification: a. How the proposed total salary request is derived, showing relevant parts of the salary structure and including examples of salaries being paid to the institution's staff members with comparable training and experience. The applicant institution must include a statement that the salary support requested is commensurate with salaries currently paid by the institution to individuals with comparable training and experience. b. If the total salary includes supplementation by the grantee institution, the supplemental amount must be indicated and the source(s) of that supplemental support must be identified. Non-Federal funds must be used for this purpose. c. Indicate the total current professional income of the candidate, including fringe benefits, and identify the source(s) of the income. The candidate cannot receive salary support from a SERCA and from another Federal source simultaneously. 2. Research Support. A maximum of $8,000 annually may be provided in the SERCA grant for other personnel, consultant costs, supplies, equipment, travel, etc., during the initial 3 years. Requests in all budget categories must be well justified. For the fourth and fifth years, up to $15,000 per year may be requested under "Other Expenses" with a footnote stating, "A detailed budget will be submitted for review during the third year of the award." 3. Alterations and Renovations. Not allowable. D. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH. If applicable, submit a notarized statement of alien registration. Information concerning previous military service, internships, residencies, research assistantships, and fellowships should be included. For all positions, indicate whether they were full-time or part-time by the words "full" or "part" in the space provided. In addition, list all of the candidate's personal publications as part of the biographical sketch. Include four copies of not more than five publications and indicate those which have been submitted with the application by the notation "Copies Sent." Include biographical sketches of the sponsor(s). E. OTHER SUPPORT. This page should be completed for individuals listed on Page 4. Include past support for the candidate only. Research support funds available to the candidate during the years of SERCA support must be identified. F. RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT. This page should describe the resources and environment of the applicant institution. Any arrangements for supervised research/training at another institution should be adequately described in Section 2, Research Plan, Part H. "Consortium/Collaborative Agreements." II. SECTION 2 The narrative for the Research Plan should use the outline described on Pages 20-22 of the Instruction Sheet of Form PHS-398 (Rev. 9/86). A. Experimental Design and Methods: Information for the first three years must be outlined in detail. Information for the fourth and fifth years may be more general in the initial proposal. A detailed research plan for the last two years is required as part of the noncompeting renewal application which is submitted during the third year of the SERCA. B. Consortium/Contractual Arrangements. The candidate should list all centers, institutions or laboratories which will participate in his/her research career program. A detailed narrative description should be provided to identify: 1. The sponsor(s) and other investigators who have agreed to participate in the program. 2. The institutional resources and space available to the candidate. Each sponsor and the applicant institution must provide a letter which indicates support of the proposed program, including a commitment of space and resources to be provided. These letters must be submitted as part of the application. C. Candidate's Plans and References: The candidate should provide the following information: 1. Career Plans. The candidate should emphasize aspects of his/her educational and training background that relate to the program described. Include a brief summary of immediate and long-term objectives and plans, explaining how the requested award will contribute to their attainment. 2. Other Activities. Provide detailed descriptions of professional activities, in addition to the research described above, to be engaged in during the first three years of the award, and an explanation of how these activities are related to research career development. Describe in general terms the plans for an expanded program of independent research which are to be implemented during the fourth and fifth years of the award. An estimate of the percentage of total work effort which will be devoted to research (including clinical research), teaching, practice and consultation, administration, research training received, academic studies, etc. should be listed. The total of these percentages should equal 100. It is required that the candidate devotes at least 75 percent time/effort to research which is directly related to the SERCA's objectives. 3. References. List the names and addresses of three or more individuals who are well- acquainted with the candidate's professional training and research competence. These references should include individuals who are capable of assessing the several stages of the candidate's career development. If possible, references should include some individuals who are not in the candidate's current department or institution, but are fully knowledgeable of his/her qualifications. The candidate is responsible for assuring that all references are submitted by the application receipt date. All reference letters should be submitted directly to: Executive Secretary Animal Resources Review Committee Division of Research Resources National Institutes of Health Westwood Building, Room 10A16 5333 Westbard Avenue Bethesda, MD 20892 D. Sponsor's Plans. The primary sponsor should personally prepare and sign a description of the specific plans for supervision, guidance, counseling and any other formal and informal training of the candidate. This statement should be included in the application. Arrangements for secondary sponsorship, if applicable, must be described fully and justified in the application. If the candidate is to be given an academic appointment, the rank, specific duties and responsibilities should be described. The sponsor should indicate how the supervision provided to the candidate will promote his/her transition toward the status of an independent investigator by the end of the five-year award. Continuation pages may be used if necessary. This plan must bear the signature, typed name and title of the sponsor, and the date signed. E. Trained Faculty in Clinical and Basic Departments. List the names of all faculty members (other than sponsors already named) who will have a significant role in the overall growth and development of the candidate during the tenure of the SERCA. Include their degrees, titles, and departments. MAILING INSTRUCTIONS: Carefully check the application for completeness and signatures, using these instructions as a guide. Return the items listed below. Postage is to be paid by the institution. Use the following checklist to help assure that the application is complete: Original application Six complete copies of the original application Four copies of each reprint (not more than five reprints), Both the application and the folder it is submitted in should be clearly labeled DRR SERCA. The material listed above should be mailed to: Division of Research Grants National Institutes of Health Westwood Building, Room 240 Bethesda, MD 20892** VII. REVIEW OF APPLICATIONS The initial review of SERCA applications for scientific and technical merit will be made by the Animal Resources Review Committee, DRR. In the review of the application for scientific merit, particular attention will be given to the candidate's prior training and experience, career potential, research career development plans, proposed research, environment, reference reports, and other relevant information. The application must clearly demonstrate that the award will enhance the candidate's development as an independent investigator. The initial review will result in recommendations for later consideration by the National Advisory Research Resources Council (NARRC). Applications approved by NARRC will be considered for funding on the basis of the overall merit of the proposal as determined by the review committee, relevance of the proposal to the research objectives of the ARP, DRR, and the availability of funds. Application Receipt and Review Schedule: JUNE 1 WILL BE THE ONLY APPLICATION RECEIPT DATE. Applications will receive final review by the NARRC in February of the following year. The earliest award date will be April 1, 1990. VIII. PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION Administration of the SERCA program will reside in the ARP, DRR, NIH. Established PHS policies for grants, as specified in the PHS Grants Policy Statement for research grants and other relevant policies, will apply to all awards in this program. A. Use of PHS Research or Training Award Funds Which are Freed-up by a SERCA PHS research or training award funds and fringe benefits freed-up by a SERCA may not be retained by the grantee or the awardee for other research or training purposes without prior approval by the Grants Management Office, DRR, NIH. B. Progress and Expenditure Reports As part of the annual application for continuation support, the grantee institution must submit a statement which summarizes the awardee's activities relevant to the award; a detailed description of the awardee's progress in the program; and the extent and nature of his/her other activities such as administration, service in an advisory capacity to public or private nonprofit organizations, outside lectures, and professional practice and/or consultation. The progress report submitted during the third year must provide a detailed progress report for the initial three years as well as a detailed outline of a scientific proposal for the fourth and fifth years. A report of expenditures signed by the institution's financial officer and an invention statement are required within 90 days after the close of each award year. A progress report covering the entire five-year period of support is required within 90 days after termination of the award. C. Termination If the awardee elects to terminate the award for any reason, the ARP, DRR, NIH, must be notified in writing concerning the date and reason for termination. A final progress report, invention statement, and expenditure report are required within 90 days after such termination of an award. D. Patents and Inventions The policy concerning ownership of inventions developed with grant funds is described in the current PHS Grants Policy Statement. E. Publication and Publicity 1. Publication and Public Presentations - Awardees are encouraged to make the results of their work resulting from support under the SERCA available to the public in scientific journals and public media. The PHS does not review proposed publications. Since no prior approval is required, responsibility for direction of the work published or presented should not be ascribed to the PHS. Surveys and questionnaires must include a positive statement that the contents are in no way the responsibility of the PHS. However, the PHS support must be acknowledged in all publications. For the sake of uniformity, the following footnote is suggested: "This investigation was supported in part by a Public Health Service Special Emphasis Research Career Award in Laboratory Animal Science (Number), from the Animal Resources Program, Division of Research Resources, NIH." Two copies of each publication should be sent to the Animal Resources Program, DRR, NIH. 2. Copyright - Except as otherwise provided in the conditions of the award, when publications, films, or similar materials are developed from work supported by the PHS, the author is free to arrange for copyright without prior approval from the supporting agency. All copyrighted materials are subject to a royalty-free, exclusive, and irrevocable license to the Government to reproduce them, translate them, publish them, use and dispose of them, and to authorize others to do so. 3. Release of Information by the PHS - See pages 1-4 of the Instruction Sheet of Form PHS-398. F. Federal Taxability of Salaries The NIH takes no position and assumes no responsibility regarding the tax status of individuals receiving funds from its extramural grant and award programs. Any questions on tax status should be directed to the local office of the Internal Revenue Service. Questions concerning other aspects of SERCA program administration, as well as inquiries related to an applicant's eligibility and appropriate areas of research emphasis, should be directed to: Director Laboratory Animal Sciences Program, ARB Division of Research Resources Westwood Building, Room 853 National Institutes of Health 5333 Westbard Avenue Bethesda, Maryland 20892 (301) 496-5175 **THE MAILING ADDRESS GIVEN FOR SENDING APPLICATIONS TO THE DIVISION OF RESEARCH GRANTS OR CONTACTING PROGRAM STAFF IN THE WESTWOOD BUILDING IS THE CENTRAL MAILING ADDRESS FOR THE NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH. APPLICANTS WHO USE EXPRESS MAIL OR A COURIER SERVICE ARE ADVISED TO FOLLOW THE CARRIER'S REQUIREMENTS FOR SHOWING A STREET ADDRESS. THE ADDRESS FOR THE WESTWOOD BUILDING IS: 5333 Westbard Avenue Bethesda, Maryland 20816