Canada Postdoctoral Research Award (CPRA) program
The CPRA funds postdoctoral researchers in health research to foster future leaders, emphasizing research excellence, equity, diversity, and inclusion in Canada or abroad.
Funder: Canadian Institutes of Health Research
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2026
Funding Amounts: $70,000 per year for up to 2 years (total max $140,000); ~234 awards annually; additional awards for Black scholars and Alice Wilson Award for women.
Summary: Supports outstanding postdoctoral researchers in health research, fostering future leaders through training in Canada or abroad, with targeted initiatives for underrepresented groups.
Key Information: International applicants eligible; up to 20% of awards reserved for non-Canadians; not for those seeking to complete a degree.
Description
The Canada Postdoctoral Research Award (CPRA) program, administered by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), provides significant support to highly qualified postdoctoral researchers in all areas of health research. The program’s goal is to develop future scientific, professional, and organizational leaders by offering opportunities for advanced research training in Canada or abroad. The CPRA emphasizes equity, diversity, and inclusion, with dedicated funding for Black scholars and additional recognition for outstanding women through the Alice Wilson Award. The program is part of CIHR’s broader Health Research Training Strategy and supports research excellence, responsible data management (especially for research involving Indigenous communities), and the development of a diverse health research workforce.
