The Searle Scholars Program makes grants to selected
universities and research centers to support the independent research of
exceptional young faculty in the biomedical sciences and chemistry.

Eligibility:

Applicants for the 2026 competition (awards which will be
activated on July 1, 2026) are expected to be pursuing independent research
careers in biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, immunology, neuroscience,
pharmacology, and related areas in chemistry, medicine, and the biological
sciences. 

Applicants should have begun their appointment as an
independent investigator at the assistant professor level on or after May 1,
2024. The appointment must be their first tenure-track position (or its nearest
equivalent). 

Institutions which do not have tenure-track appointments
should consult with the Scientific Director of the Program regarding
eligibility of selected applicants PRIOR to nominating such individuals. 

The Searle Scholars Program does not ordinarily support
purely clinical research but has supported research programs that include both
clinical and basic components. Potential applicants who are unsure if their
research is appropriate for our Program are encouraged to examine the research
interests of present and former Searle Scholars on this website. 

Applicants who were nominated for awards in the previous
competition year but were not awarded may still meet the eligibility criteria
for the current competition. Institutions should consult with the Scientific
Director of the Program regarding renomination of such individuals.

Anticipated funding: $300,000 for a three-year
period.

The awards are made to tax-exempt institutions described in
section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and are designated for the
support of the research described in the application.