Neurology Emergency Treatment Trial (NETT) Network 
Funded by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), this network conducts large, simple trials to reduce the burden of very acute injuries and illnesses affecting the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nervous system. The network conducts research capitalizing on the special narrow window of opportunity that seems to exist in treating neurologic damage from stroke, traumatic brain injury, seizures, meningitis and other conditions.
Resuscitation Outcomes Consortium (ROC)
Recognizing the critical importance of early intervention, this clinical trial network focuses on pre-hospital cardiopulmonary arrest and severe traumatic injury. It is supported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and other sponsors. ROC investigators conduct collaborative trials, leveraging the combined power of the member institutions and promoting the rapid translation of promising scientific and clinical advances for the public good. Information about current and completed studies and open fellowship opportunities is available online.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Clinical Trials Network
Funded by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, this interdisciplinary research network is evaluating the effectiveness of various acute care interventions and rehabilitation strategies on the long-term, functional outcome of people with traumatic brain injury (TBI). To codify their findings, the research team is developing outcome measures and treatment guidelines for all stages during the care of TBI patients.
Emergency Department Safety Assessment and Follow-up Evaluation (ED-SAFE)
Funded by the National Institute of Mental Health, this trial aims to detect and prevent suicide among emergency department patients who have risk factors for suicide. The project is expected to enroll nearly 1,420 patients over 5 years and will be conducted at eight sites throughout the nation.
Research Career Development Programs in Emergency Medicine
These NHLBI-funded clinical research training programs (K12) prepare clinician-scientists for academic leadership roles and independent research careers in emergency medicine.
Investigator-Initiated Emergency Medicine Research
Some investigators assume they have to wait for an RFA, RFP or PA before applying for NIH funding. Actually, most NIH institutes and centers award grants for investigator-initiated, basic and clinical research projects.
Below are two examples of investigator-initiated research in emergency settings:
Treating Sepsis with Early Intervention and Standardized Protocols
Principal investigator Derek C. Angus of the University of Pittsburgh coordinates this nationwide, multicenter trial. Called ProCESS (for Protocolized Care for Early Septic Shock), the trial is testing the hypothesis that there are "golden hours" in the initial management of sepsis and septic shock during which prompt, standardized care can reduce clinical complications and improve outcomes. This NIGMS-funded trial is currently recruiting patients.
Predicting Clinical Outcomes Based on Emergency Department Data
Principal investigator Alan B. Storrow and his team at Vanderbilt University are conducting a prospective, observational, clinical study of patients presenting with symptoms of heart failure. This NHLBI-funded study is using emergency department data to develop a tool designed to predict the risk of death or serious complications in these patients.