Step1: Research Planning & Funding
For general inquiries about Turning Research Ideas into Studies resources, please contact:
- Rose Williams
- 1 (804) 828-5853
- williamsrm4@vcu.edu
Every strong study starts with a solid plan. Step 1 helps you refine your idea, explore feasibility, and find the right data and collaborators to move forward. These resources are intended as a starting point and are not comprehensive. Investigators are encouraged to explore the linked pages and institutional sites for additional tools, training, and guidance tailored to their research needs.If you had any resources to add, please contact email cctr.vcu.edu.
All resource titles appear as blue links and include a brief description and access information (if applicable). Click an accordion below to explore available tools and resources
Research Planning
|
Resource Name |
Resource Description |
|
Epic Cosmos provides a secure, self-service platform for accessing a vast de-identified clinical dataset from Epic electronic health records across multiple institutions. It allows researchers to safely perform data extraction and analysis in a sandbox environment, ensuring privacy while expanding the pool of research subjects. By offering improved access to diverse populations and encouraging the use of de-identified data, Epic Cosmos helps enhance the scope and inclusivity of your research, providing broader insights and opportunities beyond local patient groups. |
|
|
|
|
|
HealthLandscape Virginia is an interactive mapping tool that enables researchers to visualize population health indicators and explore the geographic distribution of patient populations across Virginia. |
|
|
ENACT (Evolve to Next-Gen ACT) formally ACT Network |
ENACT (Evolve to Next-Gen ACT) is a clinical data platform developed as the next-generation evolution of the ACT (Accrual to Clinical Trials) Network. It enables researchers to assess patient availability and study feasibility across a national network of participating health systems by providing real-time access to de-identified electronic health record (EHR) data. |
|
The Trial Innovation Network (TIN) is a collaborative initiative of the NIH Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSA) Program, designed to streamline and accelerate multi-site clinical trials. It offers faculty researchers: |
|
|
Data USA is a free, open-source platform that provides comprehensive, easy-to-use visualizations of U.S. public data. It integrates data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and Department of Education to help researchers: |
|
|
Data.gov is the U.S. government's open data portal, offering access to over 250,000 datasets from federal agencies. It supports transparency, innovation, and research by providing free, public access to data across a wide range of domains, including: |
|
|
ICPSR (Inter-university Consortium for Political and Social Research) |
ICPSR is one of the world’s largest archives of social and behavioral science data, hosted by the University of Michigan. It provides access to curated datasets for research and instruction in fields such as: |
|
|||||||||||||||
|
Resource Name |
Resource Description |
|
|
Explore VCU Research (EVR) is a searchable, public-facing platform that showcases the research expertise, scholarly output, and collaborations of VCU faculty. It is part of the RAMS (Research Administration Management System) suite and is designed to: |
|
|
|
VCU Libraries is a vital resource for faculty, offering access to a vast array of scholarly materials, expert research support, and innovative tools to advance academic work. Beyond providing books and databases, the library plays a strategic role in helping researchers identify knowledge gaps and shape impactful studies. |
|
|
|
This VCU library resource covers: |
|
|
|
Literature search for research planning and identification of research problem |
The article highlights the critical role of a structured literature search in developing research questions and planning studies. It explains that literature reviews are essential for assessing existing evidence, identifying gaps in knowledge, and shaping research hypotheses. |
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Clinical Research Study Design & Facilities
|
Resource Name |
Resource Description |
|
|
The Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Research Design (BERD) Core at the VCU Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research provides expert statistical support to faculty and research teams across the university. Their services are designed to enhance the quality, rigor, and reproducibility of clinical and translational research. |
|
|
|
The Design Studio at the VCU Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research offers investigators the opportunity to present their research ideas to a multidisciplinary panel of experts for constructive feedback. The goal is to strengthen study design, feasibility, and overall readiness for funding or IRB submission. Sessions bring together experienced investigators, biostatisticians, community engagement experts, and other specialists to provide diverse perspectives that improve scientific quality and impact. Services include: Feedback on research aims, hypotheses, and study design Guidance on feasibility and participant recruitment strategies Input on data collection, analysis, and community engagement plans Support in aligning projects with funding or institutional priorities Recommendations for additional Wright Center resources and collaborations Tip: Schedule a Design Studio early in the planning phase—ideally before submitting to the IRB or funding agency—to maximize the benefit of feedback. Access instructions: |
|
|
|
The Value of Early Collaborations with a Biostatistician: How Going Rogue Leads to Bad Science |
This 1-hour video emphasizes the importance of early collaborations with biostatisticians in research to avoid pitfalls that can lead to flawed scientific outcomes. It discusses common mistakes researchers make when acting independently, highlighting the need for statistical expertise in study design, data analysis, and interpretation. The talk advocates for integrating biostatistical guidance from the project's inception to enhance the quality and reliability of research findings. |
|
|
Webinar: Whetting Your Appetite For Research Series: Sample Size |
This 1-hour educational webinar, part of the Wright Center’s “Whetting Your Appetite for Research” series, is led by Dr. Leroy Thacker, a senior biostatistician at VCU. The session introduces foundational concepts in determining appropriate sample sizes for clinical and translational research. It covers why sample size matters, how it affects statistical power and study validity, and what factors influence sample size calculations. The webinar is ideal for investigators in the planning phase of a study who want to ensure their research is adequately powered and methodologically sound. |
|
|
Making Sense of Statistics" is a practical, plain-language guide that helps readers understand and critically evaluate statistical information. It breaks down essential statistical concepts—like averages, variability, sample size, and confidence intervals—while highlighting how statistics can be misused or misrepresented in public discourse, media, and research. |
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
|
Resource Name |
Resource Description |
|
|
- Provides expert support and access to data capture, management, and analysis tools including REDCap, statistical software, and data visualization resources |
|
|
|
-Explore data management systems early to design compliant and efficient data workflows |
|
|
|
Resource Name |
Resource Description |
|
|
These protocol templates are required for the submission of new research studies at VCU effective June 1, 2023. They are tailored to VCU’s IRB processes and must be used for all IRB submissions. |
|
|
|
The Biostatistics Consulting Laboratory (BCL) provides expert statistical guidance for researchers, focusing on study design, analysis, and interpretation of data. BCL consultants assist in drafting research protocols by advising on optimal statistical methods, sample size determination, and data analysis plans, ensuring that protocols are scientifically and statistically rigorous. This support helps ensure that research studies are properly designed to generate valid, reliable results. |
|
|
|
The Design Studio at the VCU Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research offers investigators a collaborative opportunity to strengthen their study protocols before submission. Sessions bring together multidisciplinary experts who provide tailored feedback to enhance study design, feasibility, and overall scientific quality. Services include:
Tip: Schedule a Design Studio before finalizing your protocol to ensure methodological rigor and readiness for IRB or funding submission. Access instructions: |
|
|
|
University of California San Francisco Clinical Trial Protocol Development |
The UCSF Clinical Research Resource Hub offers resources for protocol development, including sample templates for various clinical trials. These templates help researchers meet regulatory and GCP standards. The protocols typically cover topics like study design, subject selection, efficacy assessment, adverse event reporting, and statistical considerations. UCSF also provides access to NIH protocol templates for specific research areas like interventional, behavioral, and retrospective studies. |
|
|
The University of Minnesota’s Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI) emphasizes that strong research protocols should be complete, comprehensive, compliant, and consistent—the “Four C’s” of protocol development. These qualities ensure regulatory readiness and smooth study execution. CTSI also offers resources like the Clinical Research Support Center, Research Navigators, and an Investigator Manual to guide researchers through the development process. |
|
|
|
Note that VCU OVPRI has required protocol templates here: https://research.vcu.edu/forms/ This tool is optional and supplemental—not a substitute for VCU’s required templates. |
|
|
|
Resource Name |
Resource Description |
|
|
This tool integrates with VCU Health’s Epic system to support point-of-care recruitment for clinical research. With IRB approval, inclusion/exclusion criteria are embedded into Epic, allowing the system to identify potentially eligible patients during clinical visits. When a match is found, a secure message is sent to the research team or clinician, who can then approach the patient about study participation. |
|
|
|
A free, national registry that connects volunteers interested in research with researchers seeking participants. It allows researchers to search for and directly message eligible volunteers, expanding access to a diverse participant pool. |
|
|
|
The Wright Center will post your IRB-approved recruitment material on our VCU Facebook page |
|
|
|
VCU Telegram |
|
|
|
This comprehensive toolbox offers a variety of practical resources designed to support effective participant recruitment and retention in clinical trials. It includes: |
|
|
|
This resource from the Wright Center supports researchers in developing inclusive, community-informed recruitment strategies. It offers consultations, partnerships, and tools to engage community members in all phases of research. The center helps investigators align their studies with community needs and values, improving recruitment and retention. |
|
|
|
The CReSS Workshop on Research Participant Recruitment provides strategies for engaging participants in research studies. It focuses on effective recruitment methods, overcoming challenges, and building trust with participants, which can enhance study enrollment and retention. This workshop is valuable for researchers looking to strengthen their recruitment efforts, ensuring their studies reach the target population effectively and ethically. |
|
|
For regulatory and IRB guidance, see the Study Start-up/Setup phase page.
Funding & Budgeting
|
Resource Name |
Resource Description |
|
VCU Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation – Funding Opportunities |
-Central hub for identifying both internal and external research funding opportunities at VCU |
|
A comprehensive, searchable database of external funding opportunities across all disciplines — federal, foundation, corporate, and international sponsors. Users can create profiles, save and track searches, and receive alerts for relevant grants, awards, and fellowships.
|
|
Resource Name |
Resource Description |
|
This page outlines the essential steps and institutional resources involved in developing a grant or funding proposal at VCU. It’s part of the Sponsored Project Navigator series and helps faculty prepare competitive and compliant proposals. |
|
|
Grant Writing Academy provides hands-on training and expert guidance to improve grant writing skills and increase proposal success rates. |
|
|
This 37-minute video, part of the NIH Virtual Grants Conference, provides a comprehensive introduction to the NIH grants process. It covers where to begin, how to find funding opportunities, and what tools and resources are essential for success. Topics include types of NIH grant programs, the application and submission process, post-review and award procedures, and post-award monitoring. The session is ideal for early-career researchers and administrators seeking to understand the full lifecycle of NIH funding. |
|
|
The NIH Grants Process page provides a comprehensive overview of each step involved in securing and managing NIH grants, from planning and application to award and post-award reporting. Key stages include preparing to apply, writing and submitting the application, peer review, award decisions, and ensuring compliance through post-award reporting. |
|
|
This webinar is designed to help researchers identify the right funding opportunities for their projects. The session provides valuable guidance on how to search for and evaluate different funding sources, such as government agencies, private foundations, and industry partners. It covers how to match your research goals with the right funding programs, giving researchers the tools to focus their efforts on grants that are most likely to align with their expertise and project scope. The webinar also offers tips for staying updated on new funding opportunities, helping researchers navigate the often overwhelming landscape of available grants. |
|
|
The OVPRI (Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation) Proposal Writing Guide is a comprehensive resource that provides step-by-step instructions on how to write successful proposals. This guide often includes advice on structuring a proposal, crafting a compelling narrative, developing a research plan, and preparing a realistic budget. It also offers tips on common mistakes to avoid and how to effectively communicate the significance of the research. Researchers can use this guide as a roadmap when preparing their grant applications, ensuring that they meet the specific requirements of funding agencies and maximize their chances of success. |
|
|
The OVPRI Funded Proposal Samples are real-world examples of successful proposals that have received funding. These samples provide researchers with concrete templates and models to follow when writing their own proposals. By studying these examples, researchers can gain insight into what makes a proposal successful—such as how to structure the research narrative, present the methodology, and communicate the significance of the research. These samples also illustrate how to properly format a proposal and respond to funding agency guidelines. They serve as a valuable reference for researchers looking to emulate successful strategies in their own grant applications. |
|
|
"NIH Grants Process: A Brief Walk-Through for Beginners" provides an introduction to the NIH grants process, covering essential steps from identifying funding opportunities to managing awards. It is designed to guide new applicants through the NIH's procedures and requirements, making it easier to navigate the complexities of grant applications. |
|
|
Mock Study Session |
The Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research hosts NIH-style Mock Study Sections which are |
|
Kaltura Grant Writing Series |
Recorded sessions available for viewing (currently being updated). |
|
|
|
|
Resource Name |
Resource Description |
|
Budget and Financial Tools: |
|
|
VCU RAMS SPOT Getting Started – Administrative Actions Type Guide |
This PDF guide provides step-by-step instructions for initiating administrative actions in RAMS-SPOT, VCU’s Sponsored Programs Online Tracking system. It covers how to request changes such as budget revisions, no-cost extensions, and PI changes. The document includes annotated screenshots and navigation tips to help users efficiently manage post-submission administrative tasks. It is intended for VCU faculty and staff involved in sponsored project administration. |
|
Entering a funding proposal and budget (start to finish) |
|
|
The "RAMS-SPOT Non-Federal Budget Demonstration" video explains the process for managing and preparing budgets for non-federal funding sources within VCU's RAMS-SPOT system. It provides step-by-step guidance on creating and submitting non-federal budgets, highlighting the differences between federal and non-federal funding requirements. |
|
|
This PDF guide provides instructions for entering cost share budgets in VCU’s RAMS-SPOT system. It explains how to document institutional or third-party contributions that are not reimbursed by the sponsor but are required as part of the proposal. The guide includes step-by-step instructions, screenshots, and tips for ensuring accurate and compliant budget entries. It is primarily intended for research administrators but may be useful for investigators involved in budget planning. |
|
|
Kaltura: RAMS-SPOT Clinical Trial Demonstration - Investigator Initiated |
The video demonstrates how to enter a clinical trial into the RAMS-SPOT system, starting from an existing funding proposal. It covers selecting clinical trial criteria (e.g., phase, type, location), ensuring compliance with ClinicalTrials.gov, and entering detailed budget information like patient care costs, procedures, and recovery rates. The video highlights using the "Jump To" menu to navigate through sections like Clinical Trial Details, Budget Characteristics, and Patient Care Grid. Documents such as feasibility studies and cost analyses are uploaded to finalize the clinical trial entry. |