This is a joint competition for VU and VUMC investigators. All investigators should follow these instructions.
Vanderbilt (VU and VUMC collaboratively) may nominate one candidate for the Rita Allen Foundation Scholars Award Program for 2019. The foundation supports early-career biomedical scholars doing pioneering research. This award typically provides $550,000 over five years for young investigators involved in research in the cure and treatment of diseases in the fields of cancer, immunology, and neuroscience.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Candidates should be independent investigators in the early stages (preferably in the first 3 years) of a tenure track faculty appointment.
- Candidates must have received committed startup funds from their respective institutions.
- Scholars may not accept an award from the Beckman Young Investigator Program, Pew Scholars Program in the Biomedical Sciences, Searle Scholars Program or Vallee Scholars Program that would take effect beginning in year one of the RAF award.
- The Foundation discourages repeat nominations of candidates not chosen in previous years.
Guidelines for Selection:
The foundation seeks candidates that show persuasive evidence of distinguished achievement or extraordinary promise in research in one of the relevant fields. The program embraces innovative research with above-average risk and groundbreaking possibilities. Rita Allen Foundation Scholars are distinguished by their bold approaches to basic scientific questions that address problems of global concern, as well as their potential for learning, leadership and collaboration.
Internal Application Process:
Anyone interested in being considered as Vanderbilt’s nominee must submit the following (in PDF format) to LSO@vanderbilt.eduby 5 p.m. on Thursday, July 26, 2018:
- Brief (2 page maximum) research plan including summary budget;
- Budget guidelines: Up to 50% may be used for Scholar compensation. No indirect costs are allowed.
- Brief statement of support from department chair/center director;
- NIH Biosketch or Brief CV (5 page max)
Submissions should reference the program name in the subject line of the email.
Once received, all proposals will be forwarded to an internal review committee that will choose the final nominee. The chosen nominee will submit a letter of inquiry to the Foundation by the September 12, 2018 deadline, and a full application is due on October 24, 2018.
Visit the foundation’s website for full eligibility and application guidelines.
Any questions about this opportunity or the LSO process may be directed to LSO@vanderbilt.edu.