RAPID Scholar Awards
RAPID Scholar Awards support early-career pediatric researchers who have faced significant adversity, funding research, mentoring, and career development to foster careers in academic pediatrics.
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Funder: Academic Pediatric Association
Due Dates: November 1, 2026 (LOI or Initial Proposal)
Funding Amounts: Up to $15,000 for one year; up to $18,000 including separate travel support
Summary: Supports early-career pediatric researchers who have experienced significant adversity through research funding, mentoring, and career development.
Key Information: Previous RAPID Scholars and Young Investigator Award recipients are ineligible; society membership requirements depend on the funding path.
Description
The Academic Pediatric Association’s Research in Academic Pediatrics Investigator Development (RAPID) Scholar Awards support one-year research projects by early-career investigators who have experienced significant adversity and challenges. The program aims to encourage research careers in academic pediatrics. Its six funding paths cover NIDDK priority areas and general pediatrics, pediatric infectious diseases, research across pediatric subspecialties, behavioral and mental health, and neonatal nutrition.
Research funding is paired with an accomplished senior investigator serving as a national mentor. Scholars participate in monthly meetings with program directors and peers for career advice, research presentations, networking, and potential collaborations. The program also provides mentoring and career development through its annual conference and the Pediatric Academic Societies (PAS) Meeting. Preference is given to projects with potential to develop into larger, longer-term research.
