Macular Degeneration Research Program: New Investigator Grant Program

Macular Degeneration Research Program: New Investigator Grant Program

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: BrightFocus Foundation
Amount: Up to US $450,000
Last Updated: July 02, 2025

Summary

The Macular Degeneration Research Program, offered by BrightFocus Foundation, supports new and early investigators in age-related macular degeneration research. With funding of $150,000 per year for up to three years, this program aims to foster innovative research efforts. Eligible candidates must hold an MD, PhD, or equivalent degree obtained within the last decade. BrightFocus encourages diverse applicants, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, to contribute to advancing knowledge in this critical area.

Overview

Macular Degeneration Research Program BrightFocus provides research funds for U.S. domestic as well as international researchers pursuing pioneering research leading to greater understanding, prevention, and treatment of age-related macular degeneration. BrightFocus is committed to supporting scientists from diverse backgrounds to foster creativity and innovation in addressing complex scientific challenges. We strongly encourage applications from individuals who are from groups underrepresented in the field of age-related macular degeneration research. Since 1999, Macular Degeneration Research (MDR) has awarded nearly $46 million to support research into the causes and potential prevention strategies and treatments of macular degeneration disease. MDR is currently supporting 58 biomedical researcher projects. The MDR program offers three types of awards: Postdoctoral Fellowship Program, New Investigator Grant Program, and Innovative Research Grants. New Investigator Grant Program This research grant program is restricted to new and early investigators who have received their MD, PhD, or equivalent degree and/or completed formal medical training/residency within the past 10 years at the time of application. It is intended to support investigators during their early years as independent investigators involved in studies that have an impact on the causes and/or treatment of macular degeneration. Proposal Length: Two-page description of the proposed researchAward Amount: $150,000 per year (total value $450,000)Duration: up to 3 years

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. This research grant program is restricted to new and early investigators who have received their MD, PhD or equivalent degree within the past 10 years at the time of application. While BrightFocus designed this award with the intention of supporting investigators who are just starting an independent research career in macular degeneration research who do not have independent grant support, we will consider new scientists who also have new R01-or equivalent grant support if the research proposed is not overlapping with other awards. Exceptions to the above ten-year eligibility period will be considered under unusual circumstances. Candidates must submit a written exception request to BrightFocus and obtain approval before applying.Specific eligibility criteria include:Candidates must hold an MD, PhD, DVM, DO, OD or equivalent degreeApplicant must serve as the Principal Investigator on the project and have independent laboratory space. The applicant should use the indicated space on the application forms to clarify any position that is not immediately recognizable as an independent research positionWhile some of the grant can be used to support salary for the PI, the percent requested should be limited to the lesser of 35% of the total grant request, or 35% of the individual’s salaryApplicants may currently be working in a non-profit, governmental, academic research institution, or at a for-profit including start-up and biotech institution.