Expanding the impact of RECOVER

What are ancillary studies?

NIH defines an ancillary study as an independent research project that uses data or samples from parent study to extend knowledge in scientific areas beyond its original scope. An ancillary study must not interfere or overlap with the primary objectives of the parent study.

Ancillary studies will allow researchers both within and beyond the RECOVER Consortium to find answers to important questions about Long COVID. These studies may use RECOVER biospecimens (e.g., blood, saliva, and urine) or biospecimens and data to answer research questions beyond the main RECOVER study objectives (protocols).

The RECOVER Initiative includes three observational cohort studies:

• The adult cohort study, which includes pregnant adults
• The pediatric cohort study
• The tissue pathology study, also known as the autopsy cohort study

An ancillary study may use data and biospecimens collected from people taking part in these three studies. However, some ancillary studies may require the collection of additional data, biospecimens, or both.

Who can apply?

Researchers both within and outside of the RECOVER Consortium may request approval for an ancillary study by submitting a proposal to the RECOVER Ancillary Studies Oversight Committee (ASOC). Before submitting a proposal, please review the Ancillary Studies Instructions (PDF, 362 KB). This document provides key details about the proposal process, including what the ASOC looks for in their review. In general, ASOC approval is only required for investigators requesting RECOVER biospecimens or letters of support for a grant proposal.

Does RECOVER fund ancillary studies?

Currently, the RECOVER Initiative does not have a mechanism to fund ancillary study proposals. Once approved by ASOC, investigators will need to obtain independent funding to carry out the proposed research.

How do I submit a proposal for an ancillary study?

Ancillary study proposals are submitted through an online portal that requires a user login. The ASOC reviews RECOVER ancillary study proposals monthly. View the ancillary study proposal questions (PDF, 328 KB).

If your ancillary study proposal is for research already supported by external funding, you will need ASOC review and approval to access RECOVER biospecimens. You must submit your ancillary study proposal at least 4 weeks before the 15th of each month to be included in the ASOC’s next review.

If your ancillary study proposal is part of an application for external funding, such as external NIH funding, ASOC can provide a letter of support if your proposal is approved. The ASOC recommends that you submit your proposal at least 8 weeks before the funding application deadline to ensure timely delivery of a letter of support. If your proposed ancillary study is funded, you will need to update the ASOC with information about the funding, including the funding start date and duration of the project.

If you have additional questions about ancillary studies email RECOVER_AncillaryStudies@rti.org.

Submit Study Application

Where can I find RECOVER observational cohort study data?

RECOVER scientists use BioData Catalyst® (BDC), the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute’s (NHLBI’s) cloud-based research ecosystem, to store and analyze the scientific data they collect. BDC currently hosts two RECOVER datasets: one from the adult observational cohort study and one from the pediatric observational cohort study. BDC provides information about exploring RECOVER data (no login required) and requesting authorization to access de-identified individual participant data for scientific analysis within BDC (login required).

Explore Data on BDC

Ancillary Study Resources