Scholarship for Researchers Committed to Advancing Congenital Heart Defect (CHD) Research in Racial and Ethnic Minority Communities
At The Children’s Heart Foundation we believe that fostering diversity in research and addressing health disparities in congenital heart defects (CHD) is crucial to improving outcomes for all patients impacted by CHDs. Our Scholarship for Researchers Committed to Advancing CHD Research in Minority Communities aims to support individuals who are dedicated to conducting research on congenital heart defects and improving the health outcomes of racial and ethnic minority populations.
This scholarship is designed to partially offset the cost of formal graduate-level research training for applicants pursuing a Master’s (e.g., MPH, MSW, MSN, MSCI, MS) or PhD degree, with a focus on translational or clinical research in CHDs and minority communities.
Award Details:
- One $10,000 scholarship will be awarded in 2025
- Funds will be sent directly to the applicant’s degree program.
Timeline:
- Application Open: May 5, 2025
- Submission Deadline: August 1, 2025
- Decision Notifications: August 29, 2025
Eligibility Requirements:
Applicants must meet the following two criteria AND demonstrate a commitment to researching CHDs in minority populations:
- Incoming and current graduate student (Master’s or PhD) enrolled in a research-focused program (e.g., MPH, MSW, MSN, MSCI, PhD). (Applicants in dual degree programs are permitted, e.g., MD & MPH).
- Have a commitment to clinical or translational research related to congenital heart defects.
Commitment to Research on CHDs and Minority Populations:
Applicants must demonstrate their dedication to advancing research related to CHDs in racial and ethnic minority populations. This includes showing how their work will positively impact health disparities and contribute to improving outcomes in these communities.
Priority Consideration:
While this scholarship is open to all applicants, priority will be given to individuals from underrepresented minority (URM) backgrounds, as defined by the National Institutes of Health (Blacks or African Americans, Hispanics or Latinos, American Indians or Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, and other Pacific Islanders).
How to Apply / Required Documents:
Applicants should submit the following documents via Proposal Central:
- Statement of Interest (3 pages maximum)
The statement should include:- Your interest in CHD research, especially in minority communities.
- Your past research accomplishments and how they relate to CHD or health disparities in racial/ethnic minority populations.
- A clear commitment to conducting future research on CHDs in these communities.
- Your career development plan and how the scholarship will support your goals.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
- Letter of Support
A letter from an academic advisor, mentor, or other relevant professional who can speak to your commitment and potential to conduct research related to congenital heart defects (CHDs), especially in racial and ethnic minority populations.
Application Portal:
All applicants for the must submit through our online application portal: https://proposalcentral.com/GrantOpportunities.asp?GMID=273
Post Award Involvement:
Awardee agrees to be featured in promotional materials and participate in Foundation events, if possible.
Awardee agrees to share academic progress.
Need help or assistance using Proposal Central? Their help center information is below:
- 8:30am - 5:00pm Eastern Time (Monday through Friday)
- by phone (toll-free): 800 875 2562 (Toll-free U.S. and Canada) or +1 703-964-5840 (Direct Dial International)
- by email: pcsupport@altum.com
For questions regarding the URM Research Training Award, email URMAward@childrensheartfoundation.org
