"These new AFAR Research Grants represent powerful new contributions to the critically important field of aging research. These investments will not only lead to important new discoveries, but will also launch the lifelong careers of brilliant new investigators," announced Dr. Frank Williams, AFAR's scientific director.
The AFAR Research Grants provide $50,000 awards to junior faculty--Ph.D.'s and M.D.'s--who are often still considering their professional fields of inquiry. These grants are offered to junior researchers because the modest one- or two-year grants often make it possible for a new investigator to make a commitment to aging research that lasts a lifetime. A recent survey revealed that not only did 75% of AFAR grantee publish their findings, but 85% of AFAR's grantees have continued their careers on geriatrics or gerontology.
AFAR gathers over 200 of the nation's leading scientists and physicians to rigorously review applications. For the AFAR Research Grant selection process, AFAR's National Scientific Advisory Council and its Research Committee consider hundreds of grant applications per year.
"This two-tiered review process not only uncovers promising new topics in aging research, it also provides support for new approaches to the care and treatment of diseases and conditions such as Parkinson's and incontinence," commented Dr. Vincent J. Cristofalo, Chair of AFAR's Research Committee.
Since 1981, over 550 AFAR Research Grants have been awarded. In addition, AFAR now offers $25,000 awards for postdoctoral fellows. For a complete listing of all 26 grantees, and for more information about AFAR and all of its grant programs--including downloadable applications--please visit www.afar.org.