DoW Epilepsy Leveraging Research Award

The Epilepsy Research Program Leveraging Research Award is offered by the Defense Health Agency through the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs. This funding opportunity is part of a broader federal initiative aimed at advancing understanding and treatment of post-traumatic epilepsy, a condition that can develop following traumatic brain injury. The program reflects congressional investment in improving outcomes for Service Members, Veterans, their families, and the broader public. The administering office operates within the Defense Health Agency Research and Development structure and uses federal grant mechanisms to support research aligned with military and public health priorities. The primary purpose of this award is to support basic, translational, and clinical research that leverages existing research resources to expand knowledge of post-traumatic epilepsy and its associated comorbidities. Rather than funding entirely new research programs, the opportunity specifically requires applicants to adapt or expand existing cohorts, tools, datasets, or interventions that were not originally focused on epilepsy. The intent is to accelerate progress by building on prior investments and extending their application into the epilepsy research space, particularly in understanding epileptogenesis, prevention strategies, and improved diagnostic or predictive tools. Funding for this opportunity is limited, with approximately 1.6 million dollars allocated to support around two awards. Each award has a maximum total cost cap of 800,000 dollars for a period of performance not exceeding three years. Funds may be used for a range of allowable research expenses including collaborative travel, data sharing, additional experiments, and participation in program-related workshops. However, certain restrictions apply, such as limits on travel costs beyond specified allowances. There is no cost-sharing requirement, making the program accessible to a wide range of applicants without matching funds obligations. Eligibility is broad and inclusive. Both domestic and international organizations may apply, including for-profit and nonprofit entities, academic institutions, and government organizations. Principal Investigators at any career stage are eligible, provided they are affiliated with an eligible organization. However, each investigator may only serve as Principal Investigator on one application under this funding opportunity. Awards are issued to organizations rather than individuals, and applicants must ensure compliance with federal registration systems such as SAM.gov, eBRAP, and Grants.gov prior to submission. The application process consists of two required steps. Applicants must first submit a pre-application in the form of a Letter of Intent through the eBRAP system. This is followed by a full application submitted either through Grants.gov or eBRAP depending on the applicant’s organizational type. The full application requires multiple components, including a detailed project narrative, technical and lay abstracts, a statement of work, and supporting documentation such as letters of support and research plans. Applications are evaluated through a two-tier review process consisting of peer review and programmatic review, with criteria focusing on scientific merit, feasibility, impact, and relevance to program goals. Key dates for this funding opportunity include a pre-application deadline of August 3, 2026, and a full application deadline of August 17, 2026. Peer review is expected to occur in October 2026, followed by programmatic review in December 2026. Awards are anticipated to be made no later than September 30, 2027, contingent on funding availability and review outcomes. Applicants are encouraged to begin preparation early due to the complexity of submission requirements and necessary system registrations. The award emphasizes collaboration and encourages multidisciplinary partnerships across academia, industry, government agencies, and community stakeholders. Engagement with individuals living with post-traumatic epilepsy is encouraged to enhance the translational relevance and impact of research outcomes. Overall, this funding opportunity is designed to maximize the value of existing research infrastructure while driving forward meaningful advancements in epilepsy research and care.

Ensure the proposed research clearly leverages an existing study rather than creating a new program and strongly aligns with PTE focus areas while demonstrating feasibility and impact