Early Career Investigator Program
Supports early-career researchers investigating canine health through basic, translational, or clinical research to improve disease understanding, diagnostics, and therapies.
Funder: American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): June 2026: Pre-proposal (projected) | September 2026: Full proposal (projected)
Funding Amounts: Acorn: up to $30,000 (incl. 15% indirect); Oak: over $30,000 (incl. 15% indirect); project duration varies
Summary: Supports early-career veterinary researchers conducting projects to improve canine health through basic, translational, or clinical research.
Key Information: Applicants must be within 6 years of completing DVM/VMD/PhD or relevant training.
Description
This program is designed to support early-career researchers focused on advancing canine health. Funding is available for basic, translational, and clinical research that investigates mechanisms of canine disease, develops new diagnostic tools, explores therapeutic interventions, or conducts clinical trials. The program aims to foster the next generation of veterinary scientists by providing resources for innovative research that directly benefits dogs. Projects may be submitted under either the Acorn (smaller-scale) or Oak (larger-scale) grant categories, depending on scope and budget.
