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Smoke and Vape Free Scholars Initiative

Purpose: This program supports California State Universities and California Community Colleges, in partnership with doctorate-granting institutions, to develop and administer mentorship & training programs for any undergraduate, post-bac and masters-level students and particularly those from tobacco priority populations to conduct tobacco-related research projects in a mentor’s laboratory or team, while also engaging in local tobacco control activities. 

Award Overview

  • Maximum total award amount: $ 1,150,000 (direct costs)
  • Maximum duration of Program Award: 4 years
    • The first year may be dedicated to developing and initiating the program, and it may also include placement of SVFSI Scholars in research internships (Year 1) 
    • Placement of SVFSI Scholars in research internships (Years 2-4)
  • Number of budgeted scholars per award: 15 scholars (e.g., 5 scholars per year for 3 years). Yearly number of scholars can vary, and actual number of scholars may exceed 15 over the course of the award. 
  • Budget: SVFSI Program Awards are partnered awards. Each institution that is a partner in the program must complete a budget.
  • Travel:
    • Project-related travel: Budget as needed for the CSU/CCC Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI) and Research Co-PI, (must be fully justified)
    • Travel to TRDRP Event: $750 for the CSU/CCC Co-PI and $750 for the Research Co-PI, as well as for each of the 15 scholars.
    • Scientific conference travel: maximum of $2,000 per year for the CSU/CCC Co-PI and $2,000 per year for the Research Co-PI
  • Allowable direct costs for key personnel, research mentors, tobacco control/advocacy mentors: Salaries, fringe benefits, supplies, project-related travel, including TRDRP-organized events
  • Allowable direct costs for scholars: stipend, tuition & fees, health insurance, room & board for temporary relocation, other (childcare, elder care, etc.), project-related supplies, project-related travel, including TRDRP-organized events. NOTE: TRDRP expects that scholars will be able to keep any tangible purchases made with scholar funds.