The Searle Scholars Program makes grants to selected academic institutions to support the independent research of outstanding young scientists who have recently been appointed as assistant professors on a tenure-track appointment. Grants are $300,000 for a three-year term with $100,000 payable each year of the grant, subject to the receipt of acceptable progress reports. Generally, the program makes 15 new grants each year.

Submissions are restricted to selected candidates from invited institutions only and are not open to individuals who have not been selected by their institution to participate in the competition. The list of invited institutions can be found on the Participating Institutions page. Individuals from an invited institution who are considering submitting applications should consult with their Provost, Graduate Dean, Vice President for Research or a similarly situated academic officer to determine how many applications their institution has been allowed to submit, as well as how selections will be made within their institutions.

Online application forms and instructions for the year 2012 awards will be available after June 1, 2011 to participating institutions. Selected applicants should obtain the online application username and password from the appropriate administrative office at their institution. Applications are to be submitted by the institution on behalf of the individual candidate.

Applications for awards to be activated on July 1, 2012 must be received no later than Friday, September 30, 2011.

Selection Process

Applicants will be screened by an Advisory Board comprised of experts in the fields of interest to the Program. All candidates will be advised of competition results by the end of April of the award year. Applicants are asked to refrain from contacting the Program to ascertain the status of their application prior to this time.

Inquiries

Questions about scientific aspects of an application or about eligibility should be addressed to the scientific director, other questions should be directed to the administrative and grants coordinator.

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