ABMS Research Grant Opportunities for Independent Investigators Open Now for 2026-2028 Cycle
The American Board of Medical Specialties Research and Education Foundation (ABMS REF) has officially opened the application process for its independent research grants aimed at innovative projects related to medical certification. This grant cycle will provide four separate grants, each valued at $75,000, totaling $300,000 for research conducted from 2026 to 2028.
Application Process
Researchers interested in obtaining funding must first submit a Letter of Intent (LOI). Following a thorough review, successful applicants will be invited to submit a full proposal. This structured approach helps to streamline the selection of outstanding research projects that can contribute significantly to the understanding of certification standards and practices applicable to the 24 ABMS Member Boards.
The planned timeline for this grant cycle includes several important dates:
1. LOI Submission Deadline: January 30, 2026
2. LOI Notification: February 27, 2026
3. Full Proposal Submission Deadline: May 1, 2026
4. Full Proposal Notification: June 19, 2026
5. Grant Start Date: August 31, 2026
6. Grant End Date: August 31, 2028
Support and Consultation
What sets the ABMS REF grants apart is the consultative role played by the Member Boards. Each board will provide one round of formative feedback to investigators during the proposal development phase. This guidance is particularly valuable for ensuring proposals are well-informed while allowing researchers the independence necessary to explore groundbreaking ideas.
Informational Webinar
For prospective applicants, an informational webinar will take place on December 16, 2025, from 4:30 to 5:30 PM EST. This webinar will cover essential details regarding eligibility and the application process. Interested individuals are encouraged to register via the ABMS Foundation website. For further inquiries, reach out to Rachel Knapp, the Information Data and Research Manager, via email.
About ABMS
Established in 1933, the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) is pivotal in managing physician certification across the United States. The foundation's commitment to enhancing the quality of medical care is reflected in its continuous development of educational standards and assessment programs. As of now, over a million physicians hold certifications issued by the ABMS Member Boards, covering various specialties. This extensive network and experience position the ABMS REF to effectively support pivotal research in medical education and certification advancement.
For more information about the ABMS, visit their official website or contact them directly.
Stay tuned for updates and ensure you don’t miss out on this significant opportunity to contribute to the field of medical research!