Pilot for Early Career Investigators
UCSF offers one-year pilot grants to early career investigators for innovative biomedical research projects with strong mentorship, aiming to foster feasibility and future independent funding.
Funder: University of California San Francisco
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2026 (Fall cycle full application deadline, projected) | March 2027 (Spring cycle full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Up to $40,000 direct costs for a one-year, non-renewable pilot project.
Summary: Supports innovative, one-year biomedical research pilot projects by early career investigators at UCSF, emphasizing feasibility, innovation, and strong mentorship.
Key Information: Forecasted dates—confirm on program page before applying.
Description
This pilot grant program is designed to support early career investigators at UCSF in launching innovative biomedical research projects across a broad spectrum of fields, including basic science, clinical and translational science, health policy, social science, digital health, and population science. The program aims to foster feasibility studies and high-impact ideas that can lead to major independent funding. Projects are expected to be completed within one year and must include a strong mentoring plan. Proposals are evaluated on scientific quality, innovation, the potential to secure further funding, and the strength of the research team.
