Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center
SPORE in Gastrointestinal Cancer

Developmental Research Program Call for Applications

We are pleased to announce the availability of pilot project grants to support basic, translational, or clinical research on the cause, prevention, detection, control, or treatment of gastrointestinal (GI) cancers. High-risk, high-reward projects with a clear focus on GI cancers and strong potential to develop into independent R01- funded studies will be considered for review.

Funds are available to qualified faculty from Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt University, Meharry Medical College, and Tennessee State University. Investigators are not required to be a member of the VICC at the time of application. Up to $50,000 will be awarded with the opportunity for a one-year renewal based on measurable progress of impact. Current GI SPORE pilot project recipients who are considering a renewal application are encouraged to contact Dr. Bob Coffey (robert.coffey@vumc.org) to discuss the likelihood of success of an additional year of funding before applying. All eligible applications will undergo peer review. In 2026, at least two grants of $50,000 each are expected to be awarded to support 12-month projects.

Interested applicants for the Developmental Research Program should submit the following: 

1. Face page (see full instructions)
2. NIH biographical sketches for the proposed investigator(s)
3. Research proposal limited to 5 pages as follows:
   1. Specific aims
   2. Background and significance
   3. Experimental design
4. Budget for the project period using the NIH PHS 398 detailed budget form page (earliest anticipated start is July 1, 2026)
5. Budget justification (include a certification that there is no financial or scientific overlap with existing projects)

Applications are due June 1, 2026

To apply, please submit a single PDF containing all documentation through the VICC Pilot Project Application Portal. A link to the application portal can also be found at the top right-hand corner of the VICC Funding Opportunities web page (https://www.vicc.org/research/funding-opportunities). In the VICC Pilot Project Application Portal, please select “GI SPORE DRP pilot project” from the dropdown options.

The VICC GI SPORE may require presentations of competitive projects to the Developmental Research Advisory Committee before final funding selections. Periodic oral and written progress reports will be required. If you have questions or comments, please contact Meghan O’Loughlin at meghan.oloughlin@vumc.org.