Wake Forest Primate Signature Program provides access to nonhuman primates (NHPs) and related resources for studies that advance translational research. To assist new NHP researchers, the Program is providing funds for feasibility studies to be conducted using monkey-related resources. In vivo studies will be conducted at Wake Forest with significant technical and faculty support, and no requirement for the awardee to be on-site. Ex vivo and data projects will be supported by sending data or samples to the investigator as needed. The objective is to facilitate the collection of data from NHPs in support of applications for extramural funding.
The Vervet Research Colony (VRC) consists of approximately 300 Caribbean-origin vervet monkeys (aka African green monkeys; Chlorocebus aethiops sabaeus), spanning neonatal to geriatric ages. The colony includes spontaneously hypertensive animals, as well as a small cohort of insulin-resistant and diabetic vervets for use in metabolic research. The animals, as well as lifespan phenotypic, tissue and data repositories are available for use.
We are pleased to offer two awards in 2020, each with a budget cap of $20,000. We will consider scientific requests that translate preclinical or clinical observations, and encourage non-destructive studies. One award aims to target proposals that investigate blood pressure, hypertension, or vascular biology. A second award is open to all categories of research.
Statement of Eligibility
Applications are open to faculty members or KL2 scholars of CTSA supported institutions.
Application Process
Applicants must submit a Letter of Intent by April 27, 2020 to: Feasibility Study LOI Submission Form (1 page maximum). An invitation to apply, or notification that you have not been selected, will be sent by May 11. Please email primates@wakehealth.edu for guidance in developing a proposal.
Please forward this information to departmental heads, administrators, and affiliated research institutions who may have an interest in translating their ideas.