The Congressionally-Directed Medical Research Program (CDMRP) fosters groundbreaking biomedical research and supports the next generation of research scientists. Its funding focuses on high-impact NF research projects, especially those that fill identified research gaps. NF research advances have positive implications for the NF community in addition to many people with tumors, heart disease, certain cancers, nerve damage, and chronic pain.

The CDMRP is annually and directly funded through the Department of Defense (DoD) in the Defense Appropriations Act. This funding is approved annually by members of the United States Congress. During the leadership program, participants will be paired with experienced advocates to speak with Congressional representatives and their staffers about their experiences with NF and the importance of NF research. Participants will also assist on a briefing to educate Congress about NF, and will hear from a leadership expert and other leaders in the NF community.

This program offers you the opportunity to make your voice heard at the national level, develop leadership skills and personal strengths, and help the NF community find effective treatments for NF 1, NF 2, and Schwannomatosis. If you are interested in participating, please complete this application.