UCLA K12 Child Health Research Career Development Award

The UCLA Children’s Discovery and Innovation Institute (CDI) and the Department of Pediatrics are proud to offer a comprehensive yet targeted two-year K12 training program for pediatric physician-scientists, focusing on training bench-based researchers to become successful investigators and future pediatric academic leaders. With a strong 29-year track record, the training program combines nurturing, rigorous mentoring, and individual training plans with core research experience and career development. Scholars benefit from access to world-class mentors, cohort mentoring, departmental and institutional support, and a vibrant scientific community. The program aims to enhance the number and success of pediatric physician-scientists conducting innovative research to improve child health. Key goals include enhancing mentoring excellence, leveraging institutional infrastructure, fostering entrepreneurship, and synergizing with other UCLA training programs. The program targets faculty with ≥75% research time and includes skill-building in academic advancement, leadership, communication, and research strategy. CDI senior faculty provide ongoing mentorship and facilitate peer networking.

This grant awards up to $100,000 each year for two years to support junior faculty generating preliminary data for future NIH K08/K23 applications. Eligible applicants must have a full-time appointment in the Department of Pediatrics, be within two years of completing their most recent fellowship, and have 75% protected research time. Projects must be basic or translational in nature and emphasize cross-departmental collaboration. 

For more information:
•    Annabelle Au, Training Grant Coordinator, Office of the Executive Chair, Department of Pediatrics – AnAu@mednet.ucla.edu

Congratulations to the Recent Scholars

Previous Scholars: