Funder: American Academy of Optometry
Due Dates (Anticipated): April 2027 (Letter of Intent) | June 2027 (Full application)
Funding Amounts: Up to $50,000 annually for two years, potentially renewable once for up to four years total
Summary: Supports optometric faculty developing independent research careers and competitiveness for large-scale federal funding.
Key Information: Institutions must provide dollar-for-dollar matching funds from new support, not existing start-up funds.
Description
The American Academy of Optometry’s Career Development Award supports optometric educators and scientists establishing independent research careers. It aims to reduce the time needed to secure large-scale federal research support and increase the number of optometrists receiving that support. Eligible work includes clinical, patient-oriented, educational, and other research relevant to optometry with strong potential for future extramural funding.
Preference is given to innovative, original, independently PI-driven projects. The award develops the applicant’s own scientific direction rather than supplementing a senior investigator’s research. Review considers scientific merit, the research environment, and the investigator’s growth potential. Mentorship is encouraged but not required, and senior collaborators or advisors may support applicants developing or expanding their skills.
