Targeted Research Initiative for Women

The Targeted Research Initiative for Women with Epilepsy program was developed to support research that generates initial data leading to more extensive projects that will have direct relevance to care of women with epilepsy. Research should focus on investigation of one of the many areas that preferentially affect women with epilepsy during the reproductive life cycle. This initiative recognizes the need for research and new insights into these scientific areas. The research may target any point along the reproductive spectrum, including puberty through menopause. Examples of topics of interest include, but are not limited to, the following areas: neuroendocrine disorders, hormone influence on seizure susceptibility, infertility, polycystic ovarian syndrome, contraceptive strategies, complications during pregnancy, and pregnancy outcomes.

The Foundation invites research grant applications from interested investigators to conduct innovative research in these areas, ultimately leading to advances in diagnosis and optimal therapeutic strategies for women with epilepsy. The broad focus of this RFP includes both fundamental and clinical research, and encourages translational research. The peer review for this program will assess proposals based not only on scientific merit, but also on relevance to the goals of the program.