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Denver/June 28, 2023 – Morris Animal Foundation is now accepting First Award and Fellowship Training proposals for studies focused on wildlife health topics. All proposals should advance the health and overall welfare of wildlife.

First Award grants aim to support early-career researchers in establishing a successful research program. Eligible applicants must have completed a PhD and have a permanent position at a university, accredited zoo, conservation organization or non-academic equivalent. Individuals currently in a residency program are not eligible for this grant.

Fellowship Training grants are designed to assist new investigators in launching a successful research career by providing salary support within a high-quality mentoring environment.

This year, Morris Animal Foundation has additional funding opportunities for applicants from historically marginalized groups through its Donor-Inspired Study program. Sally R. McIntosh, a dedicated supporter of Morris Animal Foundation for nearly 14 years, is funding these minority fellowships. McIntosh’s commitment to the Foundation began with her initial gift in 2009 to support greyhound health research. Over the years, her support has expanded to include wildlife health, with the goal of making “a tiny dent” in diversifying the animal health research community.

All proposals will undergo a two-stage review process. The initial review will ensure compliance with the proposal guidelines and assess the scientific merit and potential impact of the study proposal, animal health impact statement and resubmission summary (if applicable). Proposals that pass the initial screening will undergo full proposal review by a Scientific Advisory Board comprised of subject matter experts.

The deadline for proposal submission is 4:59 p.m. EST., Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. Proposals must be submitted to morrisanimalfoundation.aibs-scores.org. Applicants are required to register by creating a login on the site. The individual submitting the application must be the applicant or principal investigator.

Interested applicants can find more information on the Foundation’s Grants page or the FAQ webpage.

Scientific Advisory Board

  • Brianna Beechler, DVM PhD, Oregon State University
  • Joao Brandao,  LMV, MS, Dipl. ACZM, Dipl. ECZM (Avian), Oklahoma State University
  • Sarah King, PhD, Colorado State University
  • Heather Schwartz, DVM, Nashville Zoo at Grassmere
  • Claudia Wascher, PhD, Anglia Ruskin University
  • Maged Gomaa Hemida, BVSc, MVSc, PhD, Long Island University
  • Stephanie Norman,  DVM, MS, PhD, University of Washington
  • Aniruddha Belsare, BVSc, AH, PhD, Auburn University
  • Lynn Martin, PhD, University of South Florida
  • Budhan Pukazhenthi, PhD, Smithsonian's National Zoo,Conservation Biology Institute
  • Aditi Sharma, M.V.Sc, Director of Council for Environment and Sustainable Development 

About Morris Animal Foundation

Morris Animal Foundation’s mission is to bridge science and resources to advance the health of animals. Founded in 1948 and headquartered in Denver. It is one of the largest nonprofit animal health research organizations in the world, funding more than $149 million in nearly 3,000 critical studies to date across a broad range of species. Learn more at morrisanimalfoundation.org.

Media Contact: Annie Mehl