NAAF’s Early Career Award seeks to support junior investigators entering the alopecia areata research space with funds to support critical research questions. The goals of the program are to support individuals early in their career, to encourage interest and commitment to alopecia areata as a research focus, and to bring new voices and ideas to the alopecia areata research community. Applications related to all aspects of alopecia areata are strongly encouraged, including basic science, translational research, technology, epidemiology, health services, and clinical research.
Investigators with innovative research ideas are encouraged to apply. Priority consideration will be given to individuals who have not received NAAF grant funding in the past and to proposals that address one or more of the following areas of interest:
Awards
The Early Career Award is a 2-year, non-renewable award with an expected start date of 1/15/25. Applicants may request up to $150,000 ($75,000 per year over two years.) Applicants may request direct costs only. Indirect costs are not allowed on NAAF grants.
How to apply
Review and download the 2025 NAAF Early Career Award Application for specific instructions. Applications must be submitted by email as a single PDF file to grants@naaf.org. Applications must be written in Arial or Calibri font 11pt or larger with at least one-half inch margins.
1. Treatment Development Program: The Foundation of Major Discoveries
Since 1985, NAAF has awarded 208 research grants totaling over $5.7 million, with $1.65 million fueling the research that led to JAK inhibitor clinical trials—paving the way for now-approved AA therapies.
NAAF-supported genetic studies, biobanking, and registry development were critical in enabling a 2010 genome-wide association study and subsequent breakthroughs in human treatment responses.
2. Career-Focused Grants: Nurturing Emerging Scientists
Research Grants (2025)
Supports basic, translational, clinical, epidemiological, and psychosocial research in AA.
1-year, non-renewable, up to $75,000 (direct costs only).
Open globally and supports both established and early-career investigators.
Early Career Awards (2025)
Designed for investigators new to AA research.
Two-year grants up to $150,000 total ($75K/year).
Prioritize first-time applicants and those without prior NAAF or R-series funding.
Travel Grants (2025)
Supports early-career scientists presenting AA-related research at relevant scientific conferences.
Upt to $1,750 depending on geography.
Student Internship Awards
Offers $5,000 stipends for undergraduate/graduate students, residents, or fellows to conduct AA research. High retention in the field.
3. Tracking the Outcomes: Expanding Knowledge and Careers
Example: 2023 NAAF-funded research by Dr. Michal Linial on AA genetics and risk scores, using UK Biobank data, demonstrates the kind of cutting-edge, fellowship-supported work NAAF enables.
Historically, NAAF's support has helped launch systems enabling clinical trials, new diagnostics, and mechanisms-based treatments.
Summary Table: NAAF’s Role in Predicting Research Success
| Grant Type | Target Stage | Funding & Purpose | Success Indicator |
|---|---|---|---|
| Research Grants | Established & early-career | Up to $75K for one year | Supports impactful proposals and independent research |
| Early Career Awards | Junior investigators | $150K over 2 years | Launches dedicated AA researchers |
| Travel Grants | Emerging researchers | Up to $1,750 for conference attendance | Enhances visibility and networking |
| Student Internships | Students, residents, fellows | $5,000 stipend | Cultivates early interest and future leaders |
| Historical TDP Grants | Broad AA research initiatives | Strategic funding leading to therapy breakthroughs | Demonstrates long-term translational success |
Why NAAF Funding Predicts Career Impact
Inclusivity Across Career Stages: From students to seasoned investigators, NAAF supports critical stepping stones in AA research careers.
High Translational Yield: NAAF-funded research has directly led to treatment breakthroughs, registry infrastructure, and clinical trial networks.
Prestige & Visibility: NAAF awards—especially Early Career—signal commitment to the field and often catalyze further funding.
Community and Infrastructure Building: The Treatment Development Program and research summits foster collaboration and shared vision.
Sponsor Institute/Organizations: National Alopecia Areata Foundation
Sponsor Type: Corporate/Non-Profit
Address: 1500 Grant Ave Suite 242 Novato, CA 94945
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Sep 18, 2025
Sep 18, 2025
$150,000
Affiliation: National Alopecia Areata Foundation
Address: 1500 Grant Ave Suite 242 Novato, CA 94945
Website URL: https://www.naaf.org/research-grants/2025-early-career-award/
Disclaimer:It is mandatory that all applicants carry workplace liability insurance, e.g., https://www.protrip-world-liability.com (Erasmus students use this package and typically costs around 5 € per month - please check) in addition to health insurance when you join any of the onsite Trialect partnered fellowships.