Early Career Investigator Program
Early Career Investigator Program supports early-career researchers conducting basic, translational, and clinical studies to advance canine health discoveries and improve care for dogs.
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Funder: American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation
Due Dates: October 20, 2026 (Spring 2027 pre-proposal) | February 23, 2027 (Spring 2027 full proposal) | August 3, 2027 (Fall 2027 application)
Funding Amounts: Acorn: up to $30,000; Oak: over $30,000 (including indirect costs); award duration varies by project
Summary: Supports early-career investigators conducting basic, translational, and clinical research that directly benefits canine health.
Key Information: Applicants must be within six years of completing relevant training and provide institutional and mentor support letters.
Description
The American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation’s Early Career Investigator Program supports researchers in the first stage of their careers as independent investigators. It invests in both canine health discoveries and the next generation of veterinary scientists. Supported work includes basic, translational, and clinical research into canine disease mechanisms, diagnostic tools, therapeutic interventions, and clinical trials.
The Spring 2027 cycle welcomes studies across all areas of canine health research. Projects may investigate disease processes, apply fundamental knowledge to canine health problems, or explore outcomes-based clinical solutions. Priority goes to studies addressing demonstrated needs, fostering critical discoveries, or producing outcomes that improve canine health care. Applicants may submit under the Acorn or Oak category, depending on project scope and budget.
