Core Assistance Fund (CAF)
Forecasted
The Core Assistance Fund (CAF) from UCSF supports critical upgrades, equipment, and operational improvements for Campus Cores to enhance research infrastructure and scientific capacity.
Funder: University of California San Francisco
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Spring) | September 2027 (Fall)
Funding Amounts: $5,000–$25,000 per award; typically 2–3 awards per cycle; funds must be spent within 6 months
Summary: Supports UCSF Campus Cores and shared resources with funding for equipment, upgrades, and operational improvements to strengthen research infrastructure.
Key Information: For existing or aspiring UCSF Campus Cores only; not offered every cycle—confirm program status before applying.
Description
The Core Assistance Fund (CAF), managed by the UCSF Research Resource Program, provides targeted financial support to UCSF Campus Cores and shared research resources. The fund is intended to bolster core operations through the acquisition of support equipment, reagent purchases for new service development, upgrades, repairs, and other essential needs that cannot be placed on recharge. CAF can also address urgent, unexpected costs (e.g., inflationary supply increases, safety needs), and supports personnel, training, software, minor renovations, and other operational improvements that enhance efficiency and sustainability. The overarching goal is to ensure UCSF’s research infrastructure remains robust, adaptable, and able to support high-impact scientific endeavors.
