Past Funding Opportunities

The Center for Research on Empathy and Compassion invites applications for research proposals. The focus of this call is on understanding the causes and mechanisms of burnout and the development of evidence-based interventions that target medical provider burnout.

Applications are now open.

ABOUT THE CENTER

The Center for Research on Empathy and Compassion exists to enhance the well-being of faculty and students through elucidation of the neurobiological bases of empathy and compassion and the application of research advances through novel educational and training initiatives. The Center promotes research that aligns with this mission through its Seed Grant, Fellowship, and Collaborative Research programs.

SEED GRANT PROGRAM

Through its Seed Grant Program, the Center aims to encourage research to pursue basic and applied research on empathy and compassion. The seed grant program supports both basic and applied research. The basic science agenda focuses on the fundamental features of neural function and behavior in the context of paradigms that engage empathy and compassion. The applied research agenda focuses on changes that result from training in empathy and compassion, as defined using both subjective and objective measures.

ABOUT THE AWARD

Awards are non-renewable and for a period of one year. Up to $100,000 may be awarded. For additional award terms, please see our applicant information page.

ELIGIBILITY

Any full-time UC San Diego faculty member is eligible to apply.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

First-Stage Application - Letter of Intent (LOI)

Applicants selected to proceed to the second stage will receive an invitation to submit a formal proposal.

DEADLINES

Applications open February 1, 2024.

First-Stage Applications close March 1, 2024 at 5 p.m. (PST).

Applications for the 2024-2025 academic year are now open!

Through the Sanford Fellows program, the Center aims to encourage students, trainees, and early-career researchers with an interest in empathy and compassion research. The award provides financial support to fellows under the guidance of a faculty mentor for their basic or applied empathy and compassion-related research projects. Any full-time UC San Diego graduate student or postdoctoral scholar interested in conducting research related to empathy and compassion is encouraged to apply. 

First-round applications close on January 9, 2024. 

Additional information and submission guidelines are located on our center webpage.

The Center for Empathy and Compassion Training in Medical Education invites applications for medical education project proposals for implementation in the 2024-25 academic year.

The mission of the Center for Empathy and Compassion Training in Medical Education is to develop, evaluate, and disseminate educational programs to enhance empathy and compassion throughout medical training, particularly in the School of Medicine. The focus of this call is the development of evidence-based practices that help to incorporate empathy and compassion training into undergraduate and graduate medical education including those that aim to increase inclusive excellence in healthcare and health care education.

The intention of this seed grant funding is to implement novel medical education projects and evaluate their efficacy; those shown to be effective will be disseminated. The maximum amount of funding available for a single project supported under this call is $50,000 for one year, with a typical budget expected to be $15,000 - $25,000.  All budget items must be justified. Proposals should speak to future sustainability of projects, including departmental resources or the School of Medicine.

First stage applications

The goal of the first stage is to determine whether your project idea is in line with our Center’s mission and appears to be promising for further development of a detailed project plan.

Please submit an abstract of no more than 1,000 words that will be scored by the review committee. The abstract should include:

1. the project title
2. a list of project team members, their proposed role on the project and why they are appropriate for this role
3. the proposed educational program, including the target audience and timeframe, and expected outcomes
4. the relevance of project outcomes to the goals of the Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion, and specifically, the Center for Empathy and Compassion Training in Medical Education
5. proposed methodologies
   1. for implementing the program with an emphasis on practicality and feasibility (e.g., have you received approval in theory for adding your program to existing curriculum)
   2. for scientifically evaluating the outcome of the program (e.g. pre-/post-surveys, comparison condition, observational assessments)
6. audience, groups, or systems targeted for training and intervention
7. a diversity statement that highlights how this project would foster inclusive clinical learning and care
8. a summary of required resources for the project with a budget estimation

Applicants will be notified of the outcome of the review, and those selected will participate in an iterative process, working together with the Center’s personnel, to develop the second stage application. The second stage application will involve a more thorough explanation of the project’s methods and a detailed budget and budget justification. The final version of the second stage application can be submitted at any time, but must be completed by May 2024 to be considered for implementation in the ‘24-‘25 academic year.  Second stage proposals will be reviewed and approved before funds are allocated. Invitation for development of second stage proposals does not guarantee eventual funding, but we hope to create fundable proposals via the iterative process.

Eligibility

Faculty, staff, and trainees are all eligible for funding.  Feasibility of the project given the responsibilities associated with the PI’s primary role(s) must be addressed in the first stage abstract. Interdisciplinary teams are encouraged.

Application deadlines and notices

• First Stage Application due date: January 31, 2024
• Notice of Invitation for Second Stage Application: End of February 2024
• Second stage proposal due date: Rolling, with absolute deadline of May 1, 2024

Submission process

• Please submit your first stage application at the submission portal located here. You may also access this form from our website at ucsd.eduunder the “Funding Opportunities” and “Research Application Portal” tabs.
• Create an applicant account and complete the applicant profile.
• Click “Get Started” to submit a new LOI application. Under the ‘Program’ menu, select “2024 Medical Education Seed Grant Program.”
• Once the application is complete, please be sure to click ‘Submit.’

Questions? 

Contact Center Director, Lisa Eyler, PhD at lteyler@health.ucsd.edu.

Center for Empathy and Technology Seed Grant Program: Fall 2023

The Center invites applications for one-time, non-renewable seed grant proposals.  The Center is interested in projects that use advanced technology to study empathy and compassion, as well as projects that investigate technology at the intersection of empathy and health and the impact on individuals, healthcare, medical education, social interactions, institutions, and society.  Examples of technological advances of interest include, but are not limited to, artificial intelligence, digital health, and precision medicine.  Projects may be proof-of-concept, pilot, or early stage and may be de novo or add-ons to existing studies.  Studies that also address the concerns of vulnerable or special populations are encouraged.

DEADLINE EXTENDED: First-stage applications are due November 6, 2023.

Additional information including award eligibility, submission guidelines, and relevant deadlines are located on our center webpage.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM:
The T. Denny Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion will fund a fourth cohort of first year School of Medicine, Pharmacy, or graduate Master of Public Health students to initiate extended summer research projects through its Sanford Scholars Award Program. Students interested in conducting research projects related to empathy and compassion are encouraged to apply and are required to identify a UCSD faculty mentor to collaboratively develop the research project. In addition to initiating a research project, Sanford Scholars are required to participate in a summer program that will enhance the overall project efficacy, further develop empathy and compassion skills, and create a cohesive cadre of student leaders in empathy and compassion.  

REQUIRED PROGRAM ACTIVITIES:

• Research Project – Identify a UCSD faculty mentor and develop, implement, and report on a research project related to empathy and compassion. A list of interested faculty is provided via a link below to use as an initial guide, though you may also identify a mentor not on this list.  
• Summer Mindfulness/Compassion Training – Participate in a workshop series related to mindfulness, compassion, and self-compassion cultivation.  
• Summer Didactic Series– Participate in a series of interactive workshops on topics related to empathy and compassion, closely correlated with each of our Sanford Institute Centers, to provide Scholars with a well-rounded foundation of research and learning in empathy and compassion. Examples of past didactics include, "Introduction to Ethics, Compassion, and Digital Health" and "A New Communication Framework for Healthcare: Foundations in Compassion." 
• Summer Ethics Workshop – Attend a half-day scientific ethics workshop to ensure research projects are ethically sound.  

APPLICATION AND PROJECT TIMELINE:

• January 18, 12-1 p.m. – (Optional) Attend a Sanford Scholars program information session via Zoom to learn more about the application process, and program requirements, and ask questions. Zoom Link:  https://uchealth.zoom.us/j/87672741628. 
• January 30 – UCSD faculty mentor identified (guidance list found here) and interest form completed via this link. 
• February 9, 4-6 p.m. – Attend a required virtual pre-review session with your mentor to briefly present your initial research project ideas and receive feedback from Institute staff to help hone your application before final submission. (You will be assigned either the 4-5 p.m. time slot or 5-6 p.m. time slot to present.) 
• February 24 – Applications are due via an online portal (link will be shared in February), and will include a research project proposal, budget proposal and justification, and a mentor endorsement form and CV/Biosketch.  
• Late March – Sanford Scholar awards announced and projects to commence immediately with IRB submission. 
• March/April - Scholars and mentors attend a mandatory award acceptance information session. 

FUNDING:
All projects will be funded up to a total of $8,000. Of this total award, $6,000 will be provided directly to the student as a stipend, and up to $2,000 will be provided to the mentor to support the research project, including supplies and materials. 

Please visit our website to learn more about the Institute, and to review the previous and currently funded Sanford Scholar research projects.

For questions, please contact Jenna Tutjer (jtutjer@health.ucsd.edu). 

ABOUT THE CENTER:
The Center for Research on Empathy and Compassion exists to enhance the well-being of faculty and students through elucidation of the neurobiological bases of empathy and compassion and the application of research advances through novel educational and training initiatives. The Center promotes research that aligns with this mission through its Seed Grant, Fellowship, and Collaborative Research programs.

SANFORD RESEARCH FELLOWS PROGRAM:
Through the Sanford Research Fellows program, the Center aims to encourage students, trainees, and early-career researchers with an interest in empathy and compassion research. The award provides financial support to fellows under the guidance of a faculty mentor for their basic or applied empathy and compassion-related research projects. In addition to financial support, Fellows are welcomed into the Sanford Institute community and provided with opportunities for fellowship, knowledge sharing, and professional development. Fellows and mentors are encouraged to take an active role in Institute life and to interact with the broader community engaged in research related to empathy and compassion.  Fellows will present their findings at the conclusion of each award period.

AWARD:
Support will be provided for up to two years for Fellows. Renewal for a second year requires submission and approval of a progress report covering the first year. The full cost of stipend/salary will be covered for all Fellows. Tuition and fees will be covered for pre-doctoral Fellows; up to $5,000 will be allowed to support their supplies/reagents. For postdoctoral Scholars up to $15,000 will be provided for supplies/reagents.

ELIGIBILITY:
Any full-time UC San Diego medical student, graduate student, or postdoctoral scholar interested in conducting research related to empathy and compassion is encouraged to apply. We welcome applications for basic and applied research projects. Applicants are required to identify a UCSD faculty mentor to develop the research project collaboratively. The program welcomes as mentor all members of the UCSD faculty, including Adjunct members whose primary affiliation is through the Salk Institute, The Scripps Research Institute, or the Sanford/Burnham/Prebys Institute.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES:
First-Stage Application – Letter of Intent (LOI)
Applicants will provide an overview of their proposed project in a brief (~500 word) abstract within our applicant portal. The submission form will include:

1. Project Title
2. Research Question
3. Relevance of project outcomes to the goals of the Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion
4. Proposed Methodologies
5. Target participants
6. Research team members and roles

Please include a NIH or equivalent biosketch for both fellows and mentors.

For additional information and application instructions, please see the complete RFA.

During initial review, projects will be evaluated for their relevance to the Center’s mission, methodology, and potential for scientific impact.

Applicants selected to proceed to the second stage will receive an invitation containing instructions to submit a formal proposal.

DEADLINES:

• First-round applications close January 9, 2023.

QUESTIONS?
Please direct all inquiries to Catherine Christian at cchristian@health.ucsd.edu.

 The Institute offers frequent opportunities for involvement, including a Journal Club, Compassion Interest Group, Speaker Series, along with opportunities for presentation and other professional development. We encourage appointed Sanford Fellows and their mentors to participate in Institute activities to enhance learning and to interact with the broader community engaged in research related to empathy and compassion. Fellows will present their findings at Annual Fellows Meetings.

AWARD:

Support will be provided for up to two years for Fellows. Renewal for a second year requires submission and approval of a progress report covering the first year. The full cost of stipend/salary will be covered for all Fellows. Tuition and fees will be covered for pre-doctoral Fellows; up to $5,000 will be allowed to support their supplies/reagents. For postdoctoral Scholars up to $15,000 will be provided for supplies/reagents.

ELIGIBILITY:

Any full-time UC San Diego medical student, graduate student, or postdoctoral scholar interested in conducting research related to empathy and compassion is encouraged to apply. We welcome applications for basic and applied research projects. Applicants are required to identify a UCSD faculty mentor to develop the research project collaboratively. The program welcomes as mentor all members of the UCSD faculty, including Adjunct members whose primary affiliation is through the Salk Institute, The Scripps Research Institute, or the Sanford/Burnham/Prebys Institute.

HOW TO APPLY

The application process begins with a letter of intent (LOI) (one and one-half page maximum) listing the project title, names of the applicant and mentor(s), the hypothesis and overall plan of study, expected outcomes, and significance. The applicant and mentor will jointly submit the LOI. An Institute review committee will select LOIs most likely to succeed as full proposals. Those selected will submit a full application (6-page maximum) that follows the Institute’s template.

Submit first stage LOI applications via form on website

(https://empathyandcompassion.ucsd.edu/funding-opportunities/application-portal.html) or https://webportalapp.com/sp/ucsdempathyandcompassion_applicant. All applicants should indicate they are applying for the 2021 Fellows Program on the dropdown.

Once you have completed the LOI application in the application portal, please be sure to click SUBMIT.

DEADLINES

The deadline for the LOI is September 13, 2021.  Interested applicants may direct questions to komerry@ucsd.edu.

Please visit our website to learn more about the Institute and Centers, and to review currently funded research projects.  

ABOUT THE CENTER
The mission of the Center for Empathy and Technology is to make compassion toward others the default practice in medicine, public health, and society at large.  Technology is tightly woven into the fabric of the world today; therefore, the work of the Center is focused on using technology in ways that promote – rather than undermine – empathy, compassion, and well-being.

PROPOSAL DESCRIPTION
The Center invites applications for one-time, non-renewable seed grant proposals.  The Center is interested in projects that use advanced technology to study empathy and compassion, as well as projects that investigate the impact of technology on individuals, social interactions, institutions, and society.  Examples of technological advances of interest include, but are not limited to, artificial intelligence, digital health, and precision medicine.  Projects may be proof-of-concept, pilot, or early stage and may be de novo or add-ons to existing studies.

 Priority Topics for Fall 2022
While we welcome all innovative proposals that fall within the mission of the Center, in this grant cycle, we have identified priority areas for funding as listed below.  Studies that also address the concerns of vulnerable or special populations are encouraged.

Technology and Medical Education

• Use of technological advances to advance empathy in medical education
• Understand how technological advances effect medical education, empathy, and compassion

Women's Health and Reproductive Justice

• Role of empathy, compassion, and technology in women’s health
• Intersection of empathy, technology, and reproductive justice

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

First Stage Application – Letter of Intent
Please send a 500-word abstract that will be scored by the review committee.  The abstract should include (a) the project title; (b) list of research team members with NIH biosketch or equivalent for each investigator; (c) the research question; (d) its relevance to empathy, compassion, and technology; and (e) proposed methodologies.
 
To submit your proposal, complete the following steps:

• Visit the submission portal located here. You may also access this form from our website at empathyandcompassion.ucsd.edu under the “Funding Opportunities” and “Research Application Portal” tabs.
• Create an applicant account and complete the applicant profile.
• Click “Get Started” to submit a new LOI application. Under the ‘Program’ menu, select “Center for Empathy and Technology – Fall 2021.”
• Once the application is complete, please be sure to click ‘Submit.’

Applicants will be notified as to whether or not a second stage application is requested.  Specific instructions will be sent to investigators who are invited to submit a second stage application.
 
APPLICATION DEADLINES AND NOTICES OF AWARDS
First Stage Application due date: October 6, 2022 by 5pm (Pacific Time) Deadline Extended to October 14, 2022 at 5 p.m. (Pacific Time)
Notice of Invitation for Second Stage Application: October 27, 2022 (on or around)
Second Stage Application due date: January 2, 2023 by 5pm (Pacific Time)
Notice of award: February 22, 2023 (on or around)
 
For detailed information regarding this call, please view the complete RFA linked here.

2021 Request for Applications addressing either Basic or Applied Research under the Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion

 

The Center for Research on Empathy and Compassion, operating within the T. Denny Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion, invites applications for one-time, non-renewable seed grant proposals for 2021. The Institute exists to enhance the well-being of healthcare professionals, faculty, and students through elucidation of the neurobiological bases of empathy and compassion and through the application of research advances in novel educational and training initiatives.

 

The Center for Research on Empathy and Compassion pursues both basic and applied research.  The basic science agenda has a focus on the fundamental features of neural function and behavior in the context of paradigms that engage empathy and compassion.  The applied research agenda focuses on outcomes of interventions carried out in ecologically valid contexts that foster empathy, compassion, alleviation of anxiety and burnout, and, more generally, pro-social behavior.  Projects that directly link training to changes in brain function are of special interest. In turn, we are eager to exploit basic science insights to enhance training programs.

 

Both subjective and objective measures of outcome are valid. Examples of objective measures include functional and structural MRI, EEG and MEG, and local field potentials and single neuron recordings.  In addition, approaches to the assessment of behavior, social interaction, contextual awareness, and emotional response are encouraged. These include, but are not limited to, measures of facial expression and evaluation of discourse, gesture, and distributed cognition.  The Center encourages the incorporation of measures of physiological function (e.g., heart rate, sympathetic/parasympathetic function, blood, and saliva biomarkers) when projects are designed to help bridge the gap between measures of behavior and neural function.

 

The Center especially encourages projects that are relevant to patient interactions with health care professionals and their relationship to professional burnout, depersonalization, and emotional fatigue.  This includes systems-level work guided by principles of empathy and compassion to improve physicians’ work experience and well-being and multidimensional innovations that span individual health care professionals, patients, care teams, and the records and equipment with which they interact. 

 

The Center is interested in cross-disciplinary projects that effectively integrate measures of brain, body, and behavior/social interaction in applied settings that engage and foster empathy and compassion.  Projects may be a proof-of-concept, pilot, or early stage and may be add-ons to existing studies. The level of funding for projects supported under this RFA is expected to be $50,000 to $100,000 for one year, with possible renewal for one additional year.  

 

FIRST STAGE APPLICATIONS

Please send a 500-word abstract that will be scored by the review committee.  The abstract should include: a) the project title, b) the research question, c) the relevance of project outcomes to the goals of the Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion, d) proposed methodologies, e) the groups or systems targeted for training and/or intervention, and f) a list of research team members (please include a NIH or equivalent biosketch for each investigator).  Submit first stage applications via form on website (https://empathyandcompassion.ucsd.edu/funding-opportunities/application-portal.html) or https://webportalapp.com/sp/ucsdempathyandcompassion_applicant. All applicants should indicate whether the proposal is a better fit for the basic versus applied research agendas.  In cases where the proposal can fit under either agenda, the review committee will assign the proposal to the appropriate review panel. If your proposal fits under either, please choose the general research option in the application form.

Once you have completed the LOI application in the application portal, please be sure to click SUBMIT. 

 

Applicants will be notified as to the outcome of the review, and those selected for further evaluation will be asked to submit a second stage application. The second stage application will allow applicants to more fully detail the hypothesis, preliminary data, scope, and methods to be employed as well as expected outcomes.  A plan for funding of the program after the pilot period should be included with sufficient detail to indicate which funding sources would be approached and a tentative timeline.   A detailed budget will be required together with justification. Allowable expenses will include those normally permissible under NIH funding, including personnel, research reagents, and resources and small pieces of equipment. No renovations will be supported.

 

APPLICATION DEADLINES AND NOTICES OF AWARDS

First Stage Application due date: July 11, 2021

Notice of Invitation for Second Stage Application: September 1, 2021

Second Stage Application due date: September 30, 2021  November 15, 2021

Notice of award: TBD 

Award start date: TBD

 

(This Call is closed; funding was disseminated in Spring 2021 - View Awardees)

ABOUT THE CENTER
The mission of the Center for Empathy and Technology is to make compassion toward others the default practice in medicine, public health, and society at large.  Technology is tightly woven into the fabric of the world today; therefore, the work of the Center is focused on using technology in ways that promote – rather than undermine – empathy, compassion, and well-being.
 
PROPOSAL DESCRIPTION
The Center invites applications for one-time, non-renewable seed grant proposals.  The Center is interested in projects that use advanced technology to study empathy and compassion, as well as projects that investigate the impact of technology on individuals, social interactions, institutions, and society.  Examples of technological advances of interest include, but are not limited to, artificial intelligence, digital health, and precision medicine.  Projects may be proof-of-concept, pilot, or early stage and may be de novo or add-ons to existing studies.
 
Priority Topics for Fall 2021
While we welcome all innovative proposals that fall within the mission of the Center, in this grant cycle, we have identified priority areas for funding as listed below.  Studies that also address the concerns of vulnerable or special populations are encouraged.
 
Mental Health

• Technology to enhance self-compassion and/or mental health
• Empathy, compassion, and digital well-being

Remote Work

• Enhancing empathy and compassion in virtual encounters
• Role of empathy and compassion in shaping the future of work 

 
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
First Stage Application – Letter of Intent
Please send a 500-word abstract that will be scored by the review committee.  The abstract should include (a) the project title; (b) list of research team members with NIH biosketch or equivalent for each investigator; (c) the research question; (d) its relevance to empathy, compassion, and technology; and (e) proposed methodologies.
 
To submit your proposal, complete the following steps:

• Visit the submission portal located here. You may also access this form from our website at empathyandcompassion.ucsd.edu under the “Funding Opportunities” and “Research Application Portal” tabs.
• Create an applicant account and complete the applicant profile.
• Click “Get Started” to submit a new LOI application. Under the ‘Program’ menu, select “Center for Empathy and Technology – Fall 2021.”
• Once the application is complete, please be sure to click ‘Submit.’

Applicants will be notified as to whether or not a second stage application is requested.  Specific instructions will be sent to investigators who are invited to submit a second stage application.
 
APPLICATION DEADLINES AND NOTICES OF AWARDS
First Stage Application due date: October 8, 2021 by 5pm (Pacific Time)
Notice of Invitation for Second Stage Application: November 12, 2021 (Pacific Time)
Second Stage Application due date: January 7, 2022 by 5pm (Pacific Time)
Notice of award: February 18, 2022 (on or around)
 
For detailed information regarding this call, please view the complete RFA linked here.

The Center for Empathy and Compassion Training in Medical Education invites applications for medical education project proposals for implementation in the 2022-23 academic year.

The mission of the Center for Empathy and Compassion Training in Medical Education is to develop, evaluate, and disseminate educational programs to enhance empathy and compassion throughout medical training, particularly in the School of Medicine. The focus of this call is the development of evidence-based practices that help to incorporate empathy and compassion training into undergraduate and graduate medical education including those that aim to increase inclusive excellence in healthcare and health care education.

The intention of this seed grant funding is to implement novel medical education projects and evaluate their efficacy; those shown to be effective will be disseminated. The maximum amount of funding available for a single project supported under this call is $50,000 for one year, with a typical budget expected to be $15,000-$25,000.  All budget items must be justified. Proposals should speak to the future sustainability of projects, including departmental resources or the School of Medicine.

 

First stage applications

The goal of the first stage is to determine whether your project idea is in line with our Center’s mission and appears to be promising for the further development of a detailed project plan.

Please submit an abstract of no more than 1,000 words that will be scored by the review committee. The abstract should include:

1. the project title
2. a list of project team members, their proposed role on the project and why they are appropriate for this role
3. the proposed educational program, including the target audience and timeframe, and expected outcomes
4. the relevance of project outcomes to the goals of the Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion, and specifically, the Center for Empathy and Compassion Training in Medical Education
5. proposed methodologies
   1. for implementing the program with an emphasis on practicality and feasibility (e.g., have you received approval in theory for adding your program to existing curriculum)
   2. for scientifically evaluating the outcome of the program (e.g. pre-/post-surveys, comparison condition, observational assessments)
6. audience, groups, or systems targeted for training and intervention
7. a diversity statement that highlights how this project would foster inclusive clinical learning and care
8. a summary of required resources for the project with a budget estimation

Applicants will be notified of the outcome of the review, and those selected will participate in an iterative process, working together with the Center’s personnel, to develop the second stage application. The second stage application will involve a more thorough explanation of the project’s methods and a detailed budget and budget justification. The final version of the second stage application can be submitted at any time but must be completed by May 2022 to be considered for implementation in the ‘22-‘23 academic year.  Second stage proposals will be reviewed and approved before funds are allocated. Invitation for the development of second-stage proposals does not guarantee eventual funding, but we hope to create fundable proposals via the iterative process.

 

Eligibility

Faculty, staff, and trainees are all eligible for funding.  Feasibility of the project given the responsibilities associated with the PI’s primary role(s) must be addressed in the first stage abstract. Interdisciplinary teams are encouraged.

 

Application deadlines and notices

First Stage Application due date: January 21^st, 2022

Notice of Invitation for Second Stage Application: February 11^th, 2022

Second stage proposal due date: Rolling, with absolute deadline of May 6^th, 2022

 

Submission process

• Please submit your first stage application at the submission portal located here. You may also access this form from our website at ucsd.edu under the “Funding Opportunities” and “Research Application Portal” tabs.

• Create an applicant account and complete the applicant profile.
• Click “Get Started” to submit a new LOI application. Under the ‘Program’ menu, select “2022 Medical Education Seed Grant Program.”
• Once the application is complete, please be sure to click ‘Submit.’

Questions?

Contact Center Director, Lisa Eyler, Ph.D. at lteyler@health.ucsd.edu.

 

ACADEMIC SENATE FACULTY

Call for Proposals:   Changemaker Fellows Program

We are pleased to announce two opportunities for the 2021 Changemaker Faculty Fellows Program: Community Engaged Learning and Anti-Racist Pedagogy Learning Community. 

 

Community-Engaged Learning

As an Ashoka U-designated Changemaker Campus, UC San Diego recognizes the value of community-engaged learning in developing students and faculty as leaders in social innovation and changemaking. The Changemaker Faculty Fellows for Community Engaged Learning (CEL) is a collaboration between the Teaching + Learning Commons Engaged Teaching and Experiential Learning Hubs, the Center for Student Involvement, and the Changemaker Steering Committee. 

The purpose of this Fellowship is to support faculty who integrate or would like to integrate CEL into their teaching, research, and public service at UC San Diego, and serve as campus leaders in CEL pedagogy and community engagement. The Fellowship brings faculty together as co-learners to enhance existing or develop new CEL courses. Proposed projects may focus on:

• Integration of CEL into a new or existing course;
• Development of assessment tools or strategies for measuring the impact of CEL courses on undergraduate learning outcomes, instructors, or the community; or
• Community-based course research projects

The program is currently open to all full-time senate UC San Diego faculty members with an interest in CEL. We encourage individual faculty and interdisciplinary teams to apply for the Fellowship. Selected faculty are awarded $10,000 over two academic years ($7,000 distributed in the first year and $3,000 distributed in the second year). Funds may be used toward project implementation, or to provide additional professional development support for participants. Please visit the website for complete program and application details.

Questions regarding the CEL fellowship should be directed to Théo Gallegos, Administrative Assistant, Teaching + Learning Commons Engaged Teaching Hub at tgallegos@ucsd.edu or Tricia Taylor Oliveira, Director, Teaching + Learning Commons Academic Internship Program ttaylor@ucsd.edu.

 

Anti-Racist Pedagogy Learning Community

In partnership with the Changemaker Institute, Graduate Division, and the T. Denny Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion, the Teaching + Learning Commons Engaged Teaching Hub invites faculty and graduate students to apply for the 2021 Anti-Racist Pedagogy Learning Community (ARPLC) Fellowship.

The purpose of this Fellowship is to support faculty who have an interest in learning about and employing anti-racist practices into their teaching. Selected faculty receive a fellowship award of $5,000 over Fall and Winter quarters ($2,500 distributed each quarter) to develop and implement an ARPLC project. Funds can be used for activities such as:

• Professional development, course development, or research;
• Implementation costs that could include curriculum materials, course, or project-related travel, and/or;
• Undergraduate or graduate student ARPLC project-related support

The program is currently open to all full-time UC San Diego Academic Senate faculty members with an interest in learning about the historical roots of educational inequity, examining their teaching practices through a racial equity lens, and enacting anti-racist practices in their class, department, or program through a project of their own design. Non-senate faculty educators in the Schools of Medicine, Public Health, and Pharmacy are also eligible. Successful Health Sciences faculty applicants will be supported by the T. Denny Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion and will be named Sanford Anti-Racist Pedagogy Faculty Fellows. These Sanford Fellows will participate in additional activities sponsored by the Center for Empathy and Compassion Training in Medical Education, which will be detailed upon acceptance.

 

Please visit the program website for the complete program and application details.

Please direct questions to Carolyn Sandoval, Associate Director, Teaching + Learning Commons and Director, Engaged Teaching Hub at c2sandoval@ucsd.edu or
Karina M. Viaud, Associate Director of Engaged Teaching Hub at kviaud@ucsd.edu.

Selected fellows for each program are expected to actively engage with the learning community through participation and attendance in a retreat, regular meetings, implementation of a project, and post-program mentorship with future cohorts. Applications for both programs will be accepted through July 21, 2021. Fellows will be selected and notified by August 6, 2021.

 

Elizabeth H. Simmons

Executive Vice-Chancellor

 

Alysson M. Satterlund

Vice-Chancellor, Student Affairs

 

David Ruiter

Faculty Director, Teaching + Learning Commons

 

William Mobley                                                      

Interim Director, T. Denny Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion

 (This call is closed -  View Awardees and Project Descriptions)

 

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2020 Request for Applied Research Applications under the Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion

The Center for Research on Empathy and Compassion, operating within the T. Denny Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion, invites applications for one-time, non-renewable seed grant proposals for 2020. The Institute exists to enhance the well-being of faculty and students through elucidation of the neurobiological bases of empathy and compassion, and the application of research advances through novel educational and training initiatives.

 

The Center for Research on Empathy and Compassion pursues both basic and applied research.  Applied research is the focus of this RFA. An RFA for the basic science agenda was released in February 2020 with a deadline of March 2020. The basic science agenda has a focus on the fundamental features of neural function and behavior in the context of paradigms that engage empathy and compassion.  The applied research agenda will focus on outcomes of interventions carried out in ecologically valid contexts that foster empathy, compassion, alleviation of anxiety, and, more generally, pro-social behavior.

 

Both subjective and objective measures of outcome are valid. Examples of objective measures include functional and structural MRI, EEG and MEG, and local field potentials and single neuron recordings.  In addition, approaches to the assessment of behavior, social interaction, contextual awareness, and emotional response are encouraged. These include, but are not limited to, measures of facial expression and evaluation of discourse, gesture, and distributed cognition.  The Center encourages the incorporation of measures of physiological function (e.g., heart rate, sympathetic/parasympathetic function, blood, and saliva biomarkers) when projects are designed to help bridge the gap between measures of behavior and neural function. We are eager to exploit basic science insights to enhance training and intervention programs.

 

The Center especially encourages projects that are relevant to patient interactions with health care professionals and their relationship to professional burnout, depersonalization, and emotional fatigue.  This includes systems-level work guided by principles of empathy and compassion to improve physicians’ work experience and well-being and multidimensional innovations that span individual health care professionals, patients, care teams, and the records and equipment with which they interact. 

 

The Center is interested in cross-disciplinary projects that effectively integrate measures of brain, body, and behavior/social interaction in applied settings that engage and foster empathy and compassion.  Projects may be a proof-of-concept, pilot, or early stage and may be add-ons to existing studies. The level of funding for projects supported under this RFA is expected to be $50,000 to $100,000 for one year, with possible renewal for one additional year.  

 

 

FIRST STAGE APPLICATIONS

Please send a 500-word abstract that will be scored by the review committee.  The abstract should include: a) the project title, b) the research question, c) the relevance of project outcomes to the goals of the Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion, d) proposed methodologies, e) the groups or systems targeted for training and/or intervention, and f) a list of research team members (please include a NIH or equivalent biosketch for each investigator).  Submit first stage applications as a single pdf via form on website (https://empathyandcompassion.ucsd.edu/research/index.html)

 You may access the application form here:

Applicants will be notified as to the outcome of the review, and those selected for further evaluation will be asked to submit a second stage application. The second stage application will allow applicants to more fully detail the hypothesis, preliminary data, scope, and methods to be employed as well as expected outcomes.  A detailed budget will be required together with justification. Allowable expenses will include those normally permissible under NIH funding, including personnel, research reagents, and resources and small pieces of equipment. No renovations will be supported.

 

 Apply Here

(This call is closed -  View Awardees and Project Descriptions)

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2020 Request for Research Applications under the Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion

The Center for Research on Empathy and Compassion, operating within the T. Denny Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion, invites applications for one-time, non-renewable seed grant proposals for 2020. The Institute exists to enhance well-being of faculty and students through elucidation of the neurobiological bases of empathy and compassion and the application of research advances through novel educational and training initiatives.

The Center for Research on Empathy and Compassion will pursue both basic and applied research.  The basic science agenda will focus on the fundamental features of neural function and behavior in the context of paradigms that engage empathy and compassion.  The applied research agenda will focus on changes that result from training in empathy and compassion, as defined using both subjective and objective measures. Projects that directly link training to changes in brain function are of special interest. In turn, we are eager to exploit basic science insights to enhance training programs

 The Center is interested in cross-disciplinary projects that effectively integrate measures of brain, body, and behavior/social interaction in applied or experimental settings that engage empathy and compassion.  Projects may be proof-of-concept, pilot, or early stage and may be add-ons to existing studies. The Center encourages projects are relevant to patient-physician interactions and their relationship to professional burnout, depersonalization, and emotional fatigue.  The level of funding for projects supported under this RFA is expected to be $50,000 to $100,000 for one year, with possible renewal for one additional year.  

 The Center is open to a wide range of subjective and objective measures to examine neural dynamics in humans and animals associated with acts and experiences of empathy and compassion and associated with training in empathy and compassion.  Examples of objective measures include functional and structural MRI, EEG and MEG and local field potentials and single neuron recordings.  In addition, approaches to the assessment of behavior, social interaction, contextual awareness, and emotional response are encouraged, including, but not limited to, measures of facial expression and evaluation of discourse, gesture, and distributed cognition.  The Center encourages incorporation of measures of physiological function (e.g., heart rate, sympathetic/parasympathetic function, blood biomarkers) when projects are designed to help bridge the gap between measures of behavior and neural function.

 

FIRST STAGE APPLICATIONS

Please send a 500-word abstract that will be scored by the review committee.  The abstract should include a) the project title, b) the research question, c) its relevance to the goals of the Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion, d) proposed methodologies, and e) a list of research team members (please include an NIH or equivalent biosketch for each investigator). 

 Applicants will be notified as to the outcome of the review and those elected for further evaluation will be asked to submit a second stage application. The second stage application will allow applicants to more fully detail the hypothesis, preliminary data, scope and methods to be employed as well as expected outcomes.  A detailed budget will be required together with justification. Allowable expenses will include those normally allowable under NIH funding, including personnel, research reagents, and resources and small pieces of equipment. No renovations will be supported.

 

SECOND STAGE APPLICATIONS

The second stage application process is an expanded and detailed outline of your proposal.

The following sections will be required with maximum page limits listed below.

Please use Arial 11 font or equivalent and no smaller than 1⁄2 inch margins. Please send the final proposal in one pdf file with all sections included.

• Project Title, Investigators, and Specific Aims, 1/2 page;
• Background/Rationale, 1 page;
• Research Plan: The plan should include details of the approach, information regarding the nature of the subject pool, measurements to be taken and expected outcomes as they relate to the study of Empathy and Compassion 2 pages;
• Timeline and Projected Project Results and/or Deliverables (e.g., conference paper, poster presentation, software artifact, planned publications), 1/2 page;
• Anticipated External Funding Opportunities: Please list current or anticipated proposals for external funding that have overlap with your proposal to Sanford Institute. Include calls for proposals for which may supplement or expand the funding provided by Sanford Institute. Include title, very brief description, budget ceiling and floor, and link to the current call-for-proposals. 1/2 page;
• Budget and Budget Justification, 1 page 

All applications must be submitted via https://empathyandcompassion.ucsd.edu, please visit webpage for updated deadlines and notice of awards. To limit the burden imposed on reviewers, applicants will be provided with only brief summaries of reviewer’s comments.

 

 

Apply Here

(This Call is closed; funding was disseminated in Winter 2021 - View Awardees)

The Center for Empathy and Technology, organizationally situated within the T. Denny Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion, invites applications for one-time, non-renewable seed grant proposals for Fall 2020.

The Center is interested in projects that use advanced technology to study empathy and compassion, as well as projects that investigate the impact of technology on individuals, social interactions, institutions, and society. Examples of technological advances of interest include, but are not limited to, artificial intelligence, digital health, and precision medicine. Projects may be proof-of-concept, pilot, or early stage and may be de novo or add-ons to existing studies.

Priority Topics for Fall 2020

While we welcome all innovative proposals that fall within the mission of the Center, in this grant cycle, we have identified priority areas for funding as follows:

Anti-racism and Social Justice

• Anti-racism, compassion, and the patient-physician relationship
• Racial bias in the development and use of digital and information technologies in medicine and public health, including genetics and genomics
• Intersection between race-based medical practices, technology, and compassion
• Promotion of allyship in medicine and public health

COVID-19

• Intersection of empathy, compassion, technology, and COVID-19 mitigation policies and practices
• Empathy and compassion and COVID-19 surveillance technologies

Medical Practice

• How compassion is impacted by time constraints; efficient compassion in medicine
• Design of technologies to help medical professionals make time for compassion
• Behavioral economics research that could inform approaches to nudging compassion in professional encounters

First Stage Applications

Please send a 500-word abstract that will be scored by the review committee. The abstract should include a) the project title, b) the research question, c) its relevance to empathy, compassion, and technology, d) proposed methodologies, and e) a list of research team members (please include a NIH or equivalent biosketch for each investigator). Submit first stage applications as a single pdf via the submission portal located here. All applicants will be notified as to whether or not a second stage application is requested.

Application Deadlines and Notices of Awards

• First Stage Application due date: October 2, 2020 by 5pm (PST)
• Notice of Invitation for Second Stage Application: October 16, 2020 (on or around)
• Second Stage Application due date: November 13, 2020 by 5pm (PST)
• Notice of award: December 11, 2020 (on or around)

For more information, including contact information for questions regarding this RFA, please see the full call for proposals here.

(This Call is closed; funding was disseminated in Summer 2020 - View Awardees)

The Center for Empathy and Technology, organizationally situated within the T. Denny Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion, invites applications for one-time, non-renewable seed grant proposals for 2020.

 

The Center for Empathy and Technology seeks to support projects that will advance research and education related to the ways in which emerging technologies may promote or undermine empathy, compassion, and wellbeing.  The Center is interested in projects that use advanced technology to study empathy and compassion, as well as projects that investigate the impact of technology on individuals and/or social interactions, with an emphasis on physicians and patient-physician interactions. Areas of focus related to empathy and compassion include, but are not limited to, patient-physician communication, physician well-being, professional burnout, depersonalization, and emotional fatigue.  Examples of technological advances of interest include, but are not limited to, artificial intelligence, digital health, and precision medicine.  Projects may be proof-of-concept, pilot, or early stage and may be de novo projects or add-ons to existing studies.

 

FIRST STAGE APPLICATIONS

Please send a 500-word abstract that will be scored by the review committee.  The abstract should include a) the project title, b) the research question, c) its relevance to empathy, compassion, and technology, d) proposed methodologies, and e) a list of research team members (please include a NIH or equivalent biosketch for each investigator).  Submit first stage applications as a single pdf to Cynthia Triplett (cyc077@ucsd.edu).  All applicants will be notified as to whether or not a second stage application is requested.

 

APPLICATION DEADLINES AND NOTICES OF AWARDS

First Stage Application due date:  January 20, 2020 by 5pm (PST)

Notice of Invitation for Second Stage Application:  February 10, 2020

Second Stage Application due date:  March 9, 2020 by 5pm (PST)

Notice of award:  April 1, 2020 (on or around)

Award start date:  April 1, 2020 – March 31, 2021

 

For more information, including contact information for questions regarding this RFA, please see the full call for proposals at: bit.ly/2Z5lsrH