The Pediatric Epilepsy Research Foundation (PERF®) was founded in 2004 as a not-for-profit organization focused on supporting research into pediatric epilepsy and other pediatric neurological conditions. Its creation was inspired by the initiative to study vigabatrin for treating newly diagnosed infantile spasms, leading to collaborations and ultimately FDA approval of the drug. PERF® dedicates its resources to advancing pediatric neurology research.
The Infrastructure/Registry Research Grant by PERF focuses on fostering the development or expansion of multicenter infrastructures, such as registries and networks, to facilitate clinical and health-services research in pediatric neurology, with a special interest in pediatric epilepsy. It encourages projects that offer training and mentorship opportunities to young investigators. The grant supports up to 3 years of research with funding up to $300,000, requiring annual scientific and financial reporting. It aims to stimulate innovative and impactful research in pediatric neurology by supporting early-stage investigators under mentorship and senior investigators demonstrating mentorship of junior faculty.