Pilot Projects
The EdDem Network funds pilot projects that advance understanding of how early-life determinants influence cognitive aging and Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias (ADRD) across three scientific focus areas:
Critical Area 1:
Early-life determinants of cognitive aging and dementia
Critical Area 2:
Mid-life socioeconomic, social, and psychological pathways
Critical Area 3:
Biological pathways through which early-life determinants cognitive aging and dementia
NEW CALL FOR PILOT PROPOSALS (2026)
DUE OCT 13, 2026
Applications may address 1 or more of EdDem’s scientific focus areas. We invite applications from new, emerging, and established dementia researchers. Interdisciplinary projects that include a dementia clinician and social scientist MPI team are encouraged, but not required.
Pilot awards provide up to $40,000 in total costs (direct + indirect costs). Projects may receive up to two years of support, depending on project scope and available funding. Indirect costs are limited to 8% of modified total direct costs. Applicants must be affiliated with a U.S. institution. Foreign components and subawards are not permitted.
Applications are due October 13, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. ET.
Applications should be submitted as a single PDF to Jennifer Doiron, Project Coordinator, at ebddp_network@umd.edu. Please review the full RFA for application requirements, investigator development activities, review criteria, and other program details.
Questions
Scientific Questions
Pamela Herd, University of Michigan — pherd@umich.edu
Katrina Walsemann, University of Maryland — kwalsema@umd.edu
Sanjay Asthana, University of Wisconsin — samedicine@wisc.edu
Administrative and Budget Questions
Jennifer Doiron, Project Coordinator — ebddp_network@umd.edu
Previously Funded Pilot Projects
EdDem has supported pilot investigators across a range of disciplines and institutions. Explore previously funded projects and learn more about the research supported through the Network.
