Over the past few months, the federal research funding landscape has begun to shift. As a response to some of the transitions taking place, Vanderbilt University is launching the Provost Discovery Bridge Funding Program. This program will provide short-term financial support ranging from three to six months to faculty researchers affected by changes in federal policy.
If faculty receive a termination or stop-work order on a federal grant, they can work with their college or school to apply for this bridge funding and then pivot quickly and strategically to pursue new federal or foundation funding opportunities.
“The Provost Discovery Bridge Funding Program is an effort to invest in the continued success of faculty researchers, their ideas and the vibrant research ecosystem that defines Vanderbilt,” said Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs C. Cybele Raver. “The chancellor, the deans and my office worked to create a system to ensure our faculty have the resources they need—financially and in terms of administrative support—to explore additional research and funding opportunities.”
While all faculty can apply for the program, priority will be given to pre-tenure faculty to support career progression. Deans (or their designee) will nominate faculty candidates. Applications will be accepted and evaluated on a rolling basis. A review panel made up of the vice provost for faculty affairs and professional education and the vice provost for research (or their associate provost designates) and faculty members serving in advisory roles will review applications and make recommendations to the provost. The funding decision will be communicated to the faculty applicant within one week of submission.
Principal investigators who are awarded funding will receive a one-for-one match between the provost and their dean for the approved amount. The PI will work closely with a designated contact to determine the best course of action, including determining if it is possible to pivot their research to match new federal guidelines or access additional funding opportunities. If a pivot is possible, the PI will use the funding window to identify and pursue the most promising and impactful aims. If a pivot is not possible, the PI will devise a ramp-down plan.
Faculty who receive a stop-work or termination notice from a federal research grant are encouraged to read the full guidelines for the bridge funding program.
