Investigator Initiated Clinical Trials (IICT) 2022
For the eighth time, the SNSF is launching a call for clinical trials initiated by researchers on topics that are outside the industry focus.
The special programme for Investigator Initiated Clinical Trials (IICTs) of the Swiss National Science Foundation supports clinical trials on underresearched topics that meet medical as well as social needs. Though important for patients, these topics remain outside the industry focus. The IICT programme does not provide support for non-randomised and uncontrolled trials.
Researchers wishing to participate must send the SNSF a 'letter of intent' by 17:00 Swiss local time on 20 May 2022. These letters of intent need to be submitted via the mySNF platform, which will be available for submissions as of mid-April. The deadline for submitting proposals on mySNF is 1 November 2022, 17:00 Swiss local time. A checklist is now provided on the website with all the information needed for the submission.
The SNSF recommends seeking the help of local Clinical Trial Units (CTUs) early on to devise the study protocol, and to involve patient representatives at every step. As of this year, a maximum of CHF 5000 can be requested as support for the involvement of PPI representatives in preparing the application. This can be done after submission of the letter of intent and is based on a patient engagement plan.
Other new features:
- Replication studies with significant knowledge gain are explicitly included.
- Studies that are already recruiting can be submitted for further support.
- Applicants may have 2 ongoing IICT grants during the same funding period, if the overlap does not last for more than 2 years, to ensure continuity of established infrastructure.
- A letter of support from the Clinical Trial Unit must be submitted with the letter of intent and the application.