Deadline: 01-Oct-2025
Entries are now open for the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) Foundation Research Catalyst Awards. These awards are designed to support investigators who are either starting their academic careers or returning to research after a significant break.
The aim of the award is to fund a promising initial research project with strong potential. Each year, one award of $70,000 is granted, and the selected project must be completed within a two-year period.
Eligible applicants must be within the first three years of their primary academic appointment or be returning to the workforce after being away from research for at least one year. A mentor or senior colleague must be identified to help support the project. Applicants must not hold an active NIH R-series grant or its equivalent.
Only one application per cycle is allowed. Previous recipients must wait three years before reapplying, while those who were not selected may reapply in the following cycle. Individuals holding leadership positions with ARVO or the ARVO Foundation, including board members and committee members, are not eligible to apply or provide letters of support during their terms.
Applications are evaluated by the ARVO Foundation Awards Committee, composed of internationally recognized experts. Their review process is confidential, and their decisions are final.
Applications must be submitted through an online form completed by the applicant. Required information includes applicant details and a biosketch, as well as information about the chosen mentor.
Project details must include a title, a clear goal statement explaining expected outcomes and potential clinical or research impact, project significance, and a design or methodology outline. Applicants must confirm that they have institutional approval and resources to conduct the project.
A timeline is required, showing that the project will start within six months of award notification and finish within two years. A detailed budget must be included. Funds cannot be used for overhead or administrative fees.
Applicants should describe how existing resources will be leveraged for project success and clarify the mentor’s role in the research and professional development. Two letters of recommendation are required—one internal and one external—with either allowed to come from the identified mentor. Each letter must not exceed one page.
A letter from the institution is also necessary, confirming its willingness to accept the funds as outlined, verifying its tax-exempt status, and agreeing not to impose administrative or indirect costs on the grant.
For more information, visit ARVO.
