RFP for Pilot B: The Johns Hopkins Artificial Intelligence and Technology Collaboratory (JH AITC) is seeking proposals that facilitate the rapid development and implementation of novel artificial intelligence (AI) or technology solutions that improve the health and well-being of older persons. The JH AITC welcomes applications from investigators with engineering, medicine, rehabilitation, therapy, social work, nutrition, nursing, public health, or business backgrounds and proposes funding approximately $475,000 for pilot projects in 2025. Proposed budgets can range from $10,000-200,000 over one to two years. Applicants from under-represented racial and ethnic groups, women, members of minoritized communities and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Acceptable proposals must demonstrate some viable pathway towards product development and must prioritize the use of engineered or AI based approaches such as robotics, machine learning, big data analytics, image and biometrics scanning, speech and natural language processing, integrated platforms, mobile/smart devices and apps, or nanobiotechnologies. Emergent technologies, as well as the adaptation of existing technologies or AI approaches to address aging related health problems, are encouraged. Proposals are expected to describe plans for pre-competitive data sharing in a consortium data commons and NIA archive. Areas of programmatic interest for funding from this pilot core along with examples of potential projects are listed below.
Areas of Programmatic Interest
Patient Care and Engagement
- Personalized approaches for diagnostics and treatment of conditions relevant to older persons
- Engagement of older adults in physical activity
- Promotion of successful aging, well-being and resilience
- Prevention of frailty and muscle loss
- Optimization of older adults’ nutrition
- Social engagement, connection and prevention of loneliness
- Access to health care or information through digital technologies (e.g., telemedicine)
- Promotion of physical safety at home
- Management of physical disabilities
Diagnostics and Assessment
- Geroscience diagnostics approaches
- Identifying and addressing medication problems (e.g., polypharmacy medication safety, drug interactions)
- Addressing older adults; risks prior to a procedure or surgery
- Detection of co-existing health conditions affecting older adults’ health and well-being
- Early detection of signs of frailty (e.g., weakness, exhaustion, weight/muscle loss)
System Management and Administration
- Re-design of teamwork, information transfer, coordination, or clinical workflows in healthcare settings (e.g., hospital, clinic, home, long-term care)
- Population health monitoring
- Rural and urban management systems
- Expenditure and population risk
- Detection of healthcare disparities
- Design of health care provider alerts and decision support to mitigate safety risks
Family Caregiver and Workforce
- Caregiver wellness
- Caregiver education and skills training
- Caregiver emotional and financial support
- Healthcare provider training and continuing education
- Care coordination and communication across providers and settings
***Of note, these pilot awards are not meant to fund projects related to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or other dementias. See PILOT Core A RFP for AD/ADRC related funding opportunities.
Resource Access: A broad variety of resources are potentially available to facilitate development and completion of pilot projects.
- clinical research personnel to assist with the development and implementation of a clinical study
- a registry of older adults from which to recruit
- older adult stakeholders from urban and rural areas
- a network of potential research subjects from these areas
- technology development and feasibility testing
- data base, data collection, and data analytical expertise
- market and business model validation, and business networking opportunities
Application Process:
A common application process is available through this link. The deadline for submitting applications is 5pm (ET) January 15, 2025. Further information about this program and about JH AITC resources can be directed to [email protected].
