AWARD AMOUNT: $250,000.00

DEADLINE FOR FULL APPLICATION: Friday, March 4, 2022

PRESENTATION TO SELECTION COMMITTEE (IF INVITED): Wednesday, April 20, 2022

ANTICIPATED AWARD DATE: Monday, June 6, 2022

HSCI is pleased to announce the third call for proposals for its annual award for innovation in the field of stem cell science and regenerative medicine. We are soliciting applications from early career investigators for the annual Barry Family HSCI Innovation Award, to be used for exploring the basic biology and translational potential of stem cell-based science. The goal of this award is to enable bold innovation that has the potential to transform the field of stem cell research and advance the understanding and use of stem cells in the development of therapies (any modality) for human disease.

The award provides $250,000 (total cost) and is open to any investigator working in an HSCI-affiliated institution (i.e., Harvard school or affiliated hospital).

To be eligible, candidates must satisfy all of the following criteria:

• Have completed one or more of the following degrees: MD, PhD, DPhil
• Be within 10 years of starting a faculty (professorship) or comparable position as of January 1, 2022
• Possess PI rights at their home institution
• Have demonstrated the ability to supervise staff and research
• Possess a track record of innovative and impactful research discoveries
• Exhibit strong interest in or commitment to the translation of basic science to a commercial or clinical setting

This prize addresses two important goals for HSCI:

• Stimulating highly innovative research that has the potential for significant impact, both in research and in the clinic, and
• Supporting promising early-stage investigators

HSCI is looking for bold new approaches that can advance the field and could result in new medicines or therapies. 

Like NIH New Innovator Awards, this prize is designed specifically to recognize unusually creative scientists with highly innovative research ideas at an early stage of their career. The emphasis is on innovation and impact. Key review criteria will include the track record of the nominee and the transformational potential of the new or expanded work being proposed. Preliminary data generated by past or on-going work are not required but may be included. No detailed annual budget is requested at the time of application submission.

Nominations will be decided upon by the Faculty Directors and Executive Director of HSCI based upon the advice and input of the HSCI Executive Committee. One (1) award will be made each year.  Unsuccessful applicants may apply again in subsequent years.  Successful applicants may not re-apply in subsequent years.

Process and timeline

Friday, March 4, 2022

Selected applicants submit an application of not more than 2 pages (additional 1 page for figures if needed), specifically addressing the goals of this award, plus the applicant’s biosketch, and two letters of recommendation, by 5:00 p.m. (EST). Submission is via email to Robert Perez at robert_perez@harvard.edu. Recommendations cannot be submitted by members of the HSCI Executive Committee.

Friday, April 15, 2022

Email notification by 5:00 p.m. (EST) of finalists selected and invited to present to the HSCI Executive Committee at their meeting on Wednesday, April 20, 2022 via Zoom.

Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Selected finalists present to the HSCI Executive Committee at their meeting on Wednesday, April 20, 2022 via Zoom. Candidates must be available to present on this day in order to be considered for the award.

Monday, April 25, 2022

Selected candidate will be notified of his/her designation.

Week of May 16, 2022

Presentation of the inaugural Barry Family HSCI Innovation Award for Early Investigators will be made at the 17^th Annual HSCI Retreat via Zoom.

Monday, June 6, 2022

Anticipated commencement of award.

Inquiries

Questions about the Barry Family HSCI Innovation Award for Early Investigators may be addressed to Robert Perez, HSCI Grants Officer, at robert_perez@harvard.edu.

Thank you for your interest in HSCI.