Early Career Grants

The North Carolina Neurological Society (NCNS) Early Career Grant was established to support early-career neurologists in North Carolina as they develop careers dedicated to advancing neurological care, research, and education. The purpose of this award is to foster the next generation of leaders in neurology by providing protected support for innovative projects that improve neurologic outcomes for residents of North Carolina and contribute to the broader neurological community.

Purpose

The North Carolina Neurological Society (NCNS) Early Career Grant Program was established to support the professional development and scholarly advancement of early career neurologists. The program provides funding to foster innovative projects, encourage academic productivity, and cultivate future leaders within the specialty.

This funding opportunity is intended to support research projects, programmatic initiatives or advocacy that address important challenges in neuroscience and neurological care. Proposed projects should demonstrate the potential to enhance patient care, expand access to care, improve quality of care, advance scientific understanding, or promote education within the field of neurology.

Eligibility: 

• NCNS member
• Physician (MD or DO) practicing in the state of NC, within first 5 years of career (post-training)

Intent:

• Provide seed funding for novel research, quality improvement, educational, or clinical innovation projects.
• Foster engagement with the Society and encourage long-term participation in the professional community.
• Support projects that have the potential to improve patient outcomes, advance scientific knowledge, enhance healthcare delivery, or address unmet needs within the field.
• Promote diversity of ideas, perspectives, and approaches to addressing challenges in healthcare.
• Generate meaningful contributions that align with the Society’s mission and strategic priorities.

Details:

• Duration of grant is 2 years
• Up to $10,000 paid annually, paid to supervising institution
• Application deadline: Monday, November 9, 2026
• Applicants will be notified by December 15, 2026
• Applicants will be reviewed by a the NCNS grant review panel which is made up of previous NCNS Executive Board members
• Projects will be scored based on quality, need, impact and alignment with the NCNS mission.
• No overhead cost will be included.

Expected Outcomes

Recipients are expected to complete a defined project within the grants. Award recipients are expected to submit an update on progress of project to the NCNS Executive board following year 1.  Presentation is required prior to year 2 payment will be processed.  Award recipients are expected to provide a brief presentation of their project at the NCNS Annual Meeting.