For Investigators in the US & Canada

Positioning Neuroscience Discoveries for Successful Drug Development

A free short course and introduction to a unique funding opportunity for principal investigators in the US and Canada who are interested in or currently developing a therapeutic for autism (ASD) or Parkinson’s disease (PD) or pursuing research in adjacent fields with therapeutic potential for ASD or PD. The course will feature separate sessions on ASD and PD, offering unique perspectives on the unmet medical need and translational challenges in each area.

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Sponsored by SPARK NS

SPARK NS is sponsoring this short course to provide principal investigators with knowledge and insights that will help them advance their discoveries in ASD or PD from the lab to the clinic where they can directly benefit patients. Participants will also be introduced to the SPARK NS Translational Research Program. The program provides selected projects with up to $2,000,000 in milestone-based funding, education in drug development, mentorship from industry expert advisors, and scientific and business networking opportunities.

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What You’ll Learn

Perspectives on unmet medical need in autism or Parkinson’s disease

Strategies for moving discoveries from academia into industry for successful drug development

How to position your discovery to obtain translational research funding

How a unique model of translational research can reduce barriers to success

Curious what it’s like? Take a look at the highlights from a past course.

Important Information

Who can attend

The short course is open to PIs based at institutions in the US and Canada who are interested in or currently developing a therapeutic for ASD or PD or pursuing research in adjacent fields with therapeutic potential for ASD or PD.

Short course, accommodations, and meals are free

There is no fee to attend the short course, but eligible participants must apply and be selected to attend. SPARK NS will provide hotel accommodations for two nights, Wednesday, February 25 and Thursday, February 26. SPARK NS will also offer dinner at the welcome reception on Wednesday and provide all meals throughout the course.

Travel reimbursement

A travel reimbursement of up to $400 will be available after completion and evaluation of the short course. Participants are responsible for their own transportation arrangements to and from the hotel. Additional details to follow.

Important Dates and Times

Event times are subject to minor adjustments. Any changes will be communicated in advance.

  • Application portal opens

  • Application deadline

  • Selected applicants will be notified

  • Welcome reception & dinner (attendance required)

  • Educational sessions & networking

Questions about this short course?

Learn more about the SPARK NS program

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