7 Module 7: Next Experiment Panel and Grant Proposal
Grant Review
Carlos C. Goller
Module Overview
In this module, we will use the methods, figures, and results of this study to analyze the findings and implications. You will work in groups to consider the evidence provided and whether it supports the authors’ claims. We will think critically about the data and assumptions, and connect the discussion to the results and claims made in the introduction. In this module, you will have the chance to engage in the creative part of the CREATE method. You will write your own next experiment to follow the ones in the paper that you just analyzed. You can propose an experiment that will fill in a gap of knowledge (perhaps an experiment you wish they had done) or that extends the paper in some way.
Module Learning Objectives
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module, you should be able to:
- Discuss your proposed studies with peers.
- Summarize the implications of your proposed work.
- Identify the strengths and weaknesses of your proposal.
- Incorporate feedback to submit a revised grant proposal.
Module To-Do List
Module To Do List
During this module, you will complete the following items:
- Review the information provided in our Delftia Book before our first session for this module.
- Complete the in-class activity and submit it individually before the end of this module.
- Read the guidelines to improve your proposals.
- Work on peer reviews and group projects! Complete the funding form for each proposal you score.
Return to the Article and Focus on the Results and Implications
Review the figures of this published peer-reviewed article and consider the Editor’s Summary. Do you think this is an accurate summary of the impact of this work? Why or why not?
Huang, Wei, Janneth Rodrigues, Etienne Bilgo, José R. Tormo, Joseph D. Challenger, Cristina D. Cozar-Gallardo, Ignacio Pérez-Victoria et al. “Delftia Tsuruhatensis TC1 Symbiont Suppresses Malaria Transmission by Anopheline Mosquitoes.” Science, (2023). Accessed September 8, 2025. https://doi.org/adf8141.
What were the main findings of this study?
Exercises
Summarize the main findings and implications of this study.
- What did the authors claim in the introduction?
- Are the results convincing? Why or why not?
- How will these findings impact the field and future studies?
Returning to the C.R.E.A.T.E. Approach
- C – Consider: Before reading the article, we analyze the title, authors, and abstract to formulate a preliminary idea of the study. We then create a concept map or draw a diagram of what they already know about the topic, listing any unfamiliar terms.
- R – Read: We read the full article, paying close attention to the details of the experimental setup and methods. We define unfamiliar vocabulary and create drawings or flowcharts to visualize the experimental design.
- E – Elucidate the hypotheses: We identify the specific research questions and hypotheses that the study aims to address. This involves a critical comparison of the paper’s stated hypotheses with the actual outcomes and results.
- A – Analyze and interpret the data: This is a key step where scholars intensely scrutinize the figures and data tables. They analyze the results to form their own interpretation, comparing it with the authors’ conclusions.
- T – Think of the next Experiment: Based on their understanding of the article, scholars propose new, related experiments that could logically follow the study. They may debate these ideas in a “grant panel” style exercise with peers, which highlights the creative and open-ended nature of scientific research.
Exercise
Consider the C.R.E.A.T.E. method and what you know about the study. Think of the next Experiment (“TE” of C.R.E.A.T.E). What gaps in knowledge are you addressing with your proposed studies? Why is your approach needed and innovative?
Reflect
References
Huang, Wei, Janneth Rodrigues, Etienne Bilgo, José R. Tormo, Joseph D. Challenger, Cristina D. Cozar-Gallardo, Ignacio Pérez-Victoria et al. “Delftia Tsuruhatensis TC1 Symbiont Suppresses Malaria Transmission by Anopheline Mosquitoes.” Science, (2023). Accessed September 10, 2025. https://doi.org/adf8141.
