The FY21 MRP TSA supports hypothesis-driven studies across the entire spectrum of research to tackle the overarching FY21 MRP Challenge Statement and at least one of the FY21 MRP Focus Areas in Section II.A.1. The TSA is intended to advance studies in melanoma through a multidisciplinary team, bringing together divergent disciplines to foster a novel approach to melanoma research. Team science is a collaborative effort that leverages the strengths of investigators specializing in different fields to address an overarching scientific challenge or question. Research projects funded by the TSA should address critical knowledge gaps within the FY21 MRP Challenge Statement covering at least one of the required FY21 MRP Focus Areas. Based on the team’s approach, investigators will identify what should and can be achieved in the near term, and will design projects and research teams around these goals. While basic research is allowed, the ultimate mission of the TSA is to advance biomedical science with an impact on patient outcomes. Therefore, the investigative team should be able to articulate the ultimate relevance of the research (including basic studies) on the melanoma patient community.
The TSA requires that investigators jointly design a single project. However, each partner will be recognized as a Principal Investigator (PI), must submit a separate application, and will be the named PI on an individual award. The application must clearly define the synergistic components that will facilitate and accelerate progress in melanoma in a way that could not be accomplished through independent efforts. Each team member should offer unique skill sets and offer different perspectives on the project.
The TSA is not intended to study research into established late-stage disease models or the clinical utility of PD-1 in combination with other therapeutics. However, the MRP encourages studies for rare melanomas across the entire spectrum from initiation to distant macrometastasis. Clinical trials are not allowed, but correlative studies are permitted.
The TSA may support studies in animal models, human subjects, and human anatomical substances. Accordingly, development or use of relevant preclinical models may be included. The TSA is not intended to support high-throughput screenings, sequencing, etc.