I began work in USAID’s Office of HIV/AIDS this past August – and, what an exciting time it’s been! With the agency-wide shift towards program efficiency, capacity building, country ownership and sustainability, a new term has risen to prominence: implementation science.

The implementation science framework aims to increase the sustainability, cost-effectiveness and impact of global health programs in areas hardest hit by HIV & AIDS. It translates and implements research findings into routine and common practice. As we come together this week to commemorate World AIDS Day 2012, it’s important to remember the vital role and impact implementation science has in helping us achieve an AIDS-free generation.

In August 2011, USAID announced the Annual Program Statement (APS), “Implementation Science Research to Support Programs under PEPFAR.” Under the first round of the APS, USAID and PEPFAR awarded more than $21 million for eight studies in eight countries. I’ve had the privilege to provide support to each of these eight studies. While implementation has only just begun, I am confident that the impact of these studies will be powerful.

These eight studies will answer critical questions such as:

  • How can we shorten the time between an HIV positive diagnosis and entry into care?
  • What are the most cost effective and feasible measures to significantly reduce MTCT?
  • How do we translate the high efficacy of antiretroviral-based prevention found in clinical trials to programmatic delivery?

Hopefully, by now, you are as excited about implementation science as I am, because this is your chance to channel your excitement into action! The second round of the APS “Implementation Science Research to Support Programs under PEPFAR” is underway. The APS solicitation is public and the deadline for concept paper submissions is January 31, 2013.  USAID anticipates awarding up to 10 awards, with maximum funding available for a single application set at $1.8 million over three years.

The scope of the APS provides a unique opportunity to fund cutting-edge research in HIV-specific program areas, improving the integration of programs across the prevention, care and treatment continuum.  Data gathered will support efforts to prevent new infections and save lives.

Have a great idea? Apply! Know a local organization with research capacity expertise? Share the solicitation!  I’m excited for the innovative ideas that will be evaluated in Round 2!