How to Secure a TRIO Grant

one that’s likely to be successful?

Dr. Goldstein: Similar to the format for NIH grants, reviewers assess the research question’s significance and the feasibility of proposed research approaches. The types of analysis or outcome measures need to be clear, and meaningful conclusions should be able to be drawn if the proposed experiments are completed. Having a track record with prior academic or research productivity is helpful.

ENTtoday: What are some common mistakes people should avoid—that could result in an unsuccessful application—when submitting grant proposals?

Dr. Goldstein: Grants that do not propose well-defined, hypothesis-driven work tend to be more difficult to assess and, therefore, are less likely to be scored competitively. Proposals that are either too thin or overambitious may be less likely to succeed because of the potential challenges they pose. A research approach must be feasible, which also means that the anticipated outcomes and analyses need to be described well.

ENTtoday: Do you have any advice or tips on how to write a great grant proposal?

Dr. Goldstein: I recommend identifying good mentors and then taking their advice. This would be a good time to mention that The Triological Society is embarking on a new program, funded by an R25 grant from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, to help develop and grow a

mentoring network. Among other initiatives, the program will provide a way to formally connect with mentors nationwide and across the breadth of otolaryngology subspecialties. More details will be announced soon. Another tip is to take advantage of grant-writing courses or seminars offered at medical schools.

ENTtoday: Would you encourage members to apply for grants?

Dr. Goldstein: Absolutely! The society is eager to receive applications and seeks to promote research career development. Although not every grant request can be funded, organizing research ideas into grant proposals, as well as receiving mentorship, advice, and critical feedback, are all valuable and can help early career otolaryngologists–head and neck surgeons who are resubmitting a proposal—whether it’s The Triological Society, other foundations, or NIH.  

Learn more about TRIO’s Clinician Scientist Development and Research Career Development Awards.

Karen Appold is an award-winning journalist based in Lehigh Valley, Pa.