Physician-scientist early career faculty are competitively selected across all disciplines for merit and innovation of their science. Stepping stone to NIH/CTSA KL2 career development award and/or individual K. Weekly work-in-progress supplements mentored training. New awards will be one year, July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, with further years contingent on institutional finances and scholarly progress.
Scholars who apply to VFRS may be considered for other K12 programs if their work fits a program’s focus and requirements. Applications for 2026-2027 will be ranked by the selection committee in May and scholars seated July 1.
With your chair’s permission, any faculty researcher with an MD or DO who has not already received a career development or large independent (R01 or equivalent) award may be considered for the Scholars Program. Projects may be basic, translational, or clinical research. Applicants must be from VUMC.
Once your department chair approves, email the program manager to request a survey. Complete and submit this no later than April 1, 5:00 PM Central Time.
Applications must be received by 5:00 PM Central Time on April 30.
All materials must be emailed to the program manager in a single PDF document ordered as below. The program manager will not compile applications.
Instructions & Due Dates
View instructions detailing all the required items for the application.
I've very much enjoyed the WIP groups and Newman Society Seminars -- both have resulted in tangible improvements to my work and writing, which led to my independent K01 award.
~ VFRS Awardee
I expected to feel like I was drowning the first couple years as a junior faculty, but the support and training from the VFRS program and some of the other faculty development resources have helped me anticipate problems and proactively steer my lab.
~ VFRS Awardee
This program has been amazing. It has been simultaneously my dream job and training for my next dream job, and has spurred my growth as a researcher in ways I could not have anticipated. Your knowledge of what scientists need to be successful and your detailed planning are extraordinary.
~ VFRS Awardee
