Q: An investigator begins a new position after the LOI deadline, but before potential project funding. Are they eligible to apply?
A: You are eligible to apply if your tenure-track position begins before the start date of potential funding and the project, which is by Nov. 1. If your position starts by Nov. 1, please, describe this situation fully in your letter of intent, on the new university's letterhead, with additional contact information for a faculty member who can confirm your status and position at the college.
Q: Are course buy-outs or summer salary eligible costs?
A: For the purposes of the New Investigator and New Initiative grants, a course buy-out and summer salary are equivalent to providing faculty salary. The Foundation is unable to provide funding for either circumstance.
Q: Can I be a PI on a New Investigator LOI submission and a co-investigator on a New Initiative LOI submission?
A: Yes.
Q: Could a New Investigator award include Co-PIs?
A: The goal of the New Investigator Research Grants is to provide research support for innovative basic scientists in Pennsylvania as they transition into an academic position as a new independent investigator. These inquiries generally do not include co-investigators. Co-investigators, however, are included in the New Initiative awards, which are more collaborative in nature.
Q: Could an investigator apply if they will be a permanent resident by the time the grant will be awarded?
A: All investigators (PIs and co-investigators) must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents by the date of the LOI deadline.
Q: How competitive is the program?
A: The program is fairly competitive; however, if invited to submit a full proposal, the chances of funding are between 20-30%.
Q: How will I know if my specific research will be of interest to the Foundation?
A: The intent of the Charles E. Kaufman Foundation is to support investigations into core scientific aspects rather than applied or clinical studies. If you are unsure of whether your research qualifies for support, you are welcome to submit an LOI in the understanding that the SAB will give greatest consideration to those applications that focus on basic scientific questions.
Q: May I receive feedback on a previously submitted LOI?
A: Because of the large number of requests, the Foundation is regrettably unable to provide panel comments from the Letter of Intent stage.
If you have any additional questions, please email us at kaufmanapps@pghfdn.org.