UCLA CTSI AI Seed Grant
Co-sponsored by CTSI and the UCLA Center for AI and Smart Health
The UCLA Center for AI and Smart Health in partnership with the Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI) are requesting pilot applications focused on artificial intelligence through the CTSI Translational Pilot Grant mechanism.
For the purposes of this seed grant program, artificial intelligence (AI) should be defined broadly to include machine learning, predictive modeling, natural language processing, computer vision, generative AI, and related computational methods.
The focus of this call is specifically around the use of Generative AI for Discovery and Innovation. Projects that apply generative AI techniques to accelerate discovery or create new tools in clinical research. Areas of interest include but are not limited to:
- Generative models for novel biomarkers, therapeutic candidates, or molecular design
- Synthetic data generation to augment scarce datasets while preserving privacy
- AI-driven hypothesis generation, trial simulation, or patient engagement tools
- Generative AI approaches to translational science barriers.
The goal of this pilot funding is to catalyze innovative uses of AI with the goal to support early-stage projects that will generate preliminary data, foster collaborations, and position investigators for future extramural funding.
Important Dates
Application Window Opens: October 30, 2025
Applications Due: 5:00PM, December 5, 2025
Funding Announcement: December 19, 2025
Funding Start Date: January 4, 2026
Applications
Applications should be submitted to ctsicatalyst@mednet.ucla.edu no later than 5PM on Friday, December 5, 2025. Submit a single PDF file that includes the following:
- Cover Page with Name, Department, and Contact Information
- A 1-page Specific Aims Page
- A 1-page Budget and Budget Justification
- A 1-page Feasibility Description describing how project can be completed in 6 months from the time of funding with a project timeline and milestones.
- Biosketch or CV
For questions regarding the content, scope or eligibility of this opportunity
Related Events
