The UCLA-CDU CFAR provides funding for pilot projects to fund HIV-related research with an emphasis on supporting new investigators and established investigators who are new to HIV research. Each applicant should involve an experienced HIV researcher, for the purpose of guidance and building a fruitful collaboration leading to future competitive funding.
Please note that pilot projects cannot support clinical trials and/or any studies involving new drugs, treatments, and devices.
The UCLA-CDU CFAR and the UCLA AIDS Institute are accepting applications for pilot projects to fund HIV-related research with an emphasis on supporting new/early-stage investigators, established investigators who are new to HIV research, and investigators working on HIV research who are being required to pivot due to loss of funding opportunities.
Projects must align with the current NIH HIV/AIDS Research Priorities (NOT‑OD‑20‑018 and subsequent updates). Proposals clearly outside these priorities will not be reviewed.
Maximum request per application: $60,000 Direct Costs
PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR THE RFA
Deadline for receipt of Letters of Intent: September 12, 2025
Applicants whose letters of intent are favorably reviewed will be invited to submit a formal proposal.
Formal proposals will then be due by November 21, 2025.
Applicants will be notified of a decision by February 2026
The project period is for two years, with the earliest starting date of February 9, 2026.
Please note: Despite the project period noted, no funds may be spent, and no research activities may begin until all required IRB approvals (and, if applicable, NIH international clearances) are on file with the CFAR. If pre‑award spending is necessary, you must obtain written approval from the CFAR prior to incurring costs.
Deadlines
- 2025 Cycle 1
- Letter of Intent: September 12, 2025
- Formal Proposal: November 21, 2025
- Earliest Start Date: February 9, 2026
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Acknowledge the CFAR
Please acknowledge the UCLA-CDU CFAR for any assistance received from our cores (i.e. consultation, services, materials, access to equipment or space, training, or funding) and supported programs in your research publications, conference abstracts, grant proposals, and presentations.