This Translational Research Award supports projects that move mature traumatic brain injury (TBI) and psychological health research toward real-world clinical applications, with an emphasis on approaches expected to meaningfully improve patient outcomes rather than incremental changes. Basic research and clinical trials are not allowed, and applicants must provide preliminary data. Projects may involve animal models or prospective human subject research, and CBPR is required for prospective enrollment.

Summary: The Translational Research Award (TRA) intends to accelerate the conversion of scientific findings into impactful clinical applications. The TRA prioritizes innovative approaches over purely iterative or incremental research. Submissions focusing on minor modifications to existing standards without the intent or potential to significantly improve clinical care or patient outcomes do not meet the intent of the mechanism.

Distinctive Features:Basic research and clinical trials are prohibited. Preliminary data are required.

· For animal research, applications must describe the choice of model and its relevance to the human clinical condition.

· For research prospectively enrolling human subjects, the inclusion of community-based participatory research (CBPR) approaches is required.

· The Translational Research Award offers funding for two Research Levels. The applicant is responsible for selecting the Research Level based on the scope of the research.

○ Research Level 1: Supports the refinement of mature ideas and concepts into tangible and knowledge products positioned for further evaluation.

○ Research Level 2: Supports the rigorous evaluation of tangible and knowledge products in preparation for first-in-human studies or clinical trials.

· Early-Career Investigator Partnering Option (available for both Research Levels): This option accommodates two Principal Investigators (PIs), one of which is an Early-Career Investigator. If recommended for funding, each PI will receive a separate award.