The William P. Van Wagenen Fellowship
The William P. Van Wagenen Fellowship supports senior neurosurgical residents with a year of research and scientific enrichment abroad to broaden their knowledge and advance academic and research goals.
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Funder: American Association of Neurological Surgeons
Due Dates: September 1, 2026 (Applications available) | November 1, 2026 (Application deadline, 11:59 p.m. Central Time)
Funding Amounts: Up to $120,000 for 12 months, plus $15,000 research support, $6,000 accompanying-family allowance, and $5,000 medical insurance if needed
Summary: Supports senior neurosurgical residents pursuing academic careers through a year of research and scientific enrichment abroad.
Key Information: Applicants must be PGY5–PGY7 residents in an ACGME-accredited neurosurgery program or Canadian equivalent.
Description
The William P. Van Wagenen Fellowship is offered by the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS), with application administration through the Neurosurgery Research & Education Foundation (NREF). Established by Dr. Van Wagenen’s estate, it supports foreign travel, research, and scientific enrichment in neurological surgery and related basic sciences before beginning an academic career.
The fellowship provides a year abroad at a sponsoring university, hospital, or laboratory. Its purpose is to give fellows freedom in scientific development, broaden their knowledge, and foster academic and research goals without the restrictive limitations often associated with research grants and fellowships. The program encourages new lines of investigation and the introduction of new technology and skills into neurosurgical practice. Since 1968, more than 50 fellows have pursued research and academic interests abroad through the program.
