The Klingenstein-Simons Neuroscience Fellowship supports innovative research by early career investigators. The research should have relevance for understanding the mechanisms underlying any of a wide range of neurological and behavioral disorders, that may lead to improvements in the diagnosis and treatment of these disorders. We recognize, however, that some of the most important contributions towards disease cures can come from basic research, without an immediate understanding of their relationship to disease, and will continue our support of basic research.

Our hope is that our funding will seed new directions in the fellows’ research programs by providing an unencumbered addition to their regular source of research support. Through our yearly meetings we hope to foster collaboration and mentorship between current and former fellows at different stages in their careers. We give priority to candidates who may not have received substantial funding from other private awards yet have highly promising scientific careers. We encourage neuroscientists from underrepresented groups to apply. The Klingenstein-Simons Neuroscience Fellowship gives recognition to outstanding scientists who have made valuable contributions in their early research efforts, and who show the greatest promise for a successful research career.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

To qualify for an award, investigators must hold a Ph.D. and/or an M.D, and have completed all research training, including post-doctoral training. Candidates must also meet these four qualifications:

• The candidate must have a tenure track appointment or equivalent. A letter indicating the commitment of institutional resources to establish the investigator and the prospects for long-term support by the institution must be provided by an institutional official (e.g., dean), including date of appointment.
• The candidate must be an independent investigator at a university, medical center, or research institute with a maximum of four years between the completion of last postdoc and the application deadline.
• United States citizenship is not a requirement, but it’s expected that candidates will be permanent residents of the United States and their research will be conducted in United States institutions.
• Applicants must inform the Esther A. & Joseph Klingenstein Fund of other sources of funding. Although there’s no strict prohibition against holding more than one fellowship at one time, the Fund may take other funding into account when deciding whether to grant an Award.