Fund Your Future Series
Fund Your Future | 2026 Grant Writing Series
The Fund Your Future series is designed to equip postdoctoral scholars with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the grant writing process successfully. Through a mix of informational sessions, hands-on workshops, and expert panels, this series covers key aspects of securing funding – from understanding grant opportunities and NIH requirements to crafting competitive applications and planning for long-term research success.
Whether you’re new to grant writing or looking to refine your approach, these sessions will provide valuable insights, practical strategies, and opportunities to learn from experienced grant writers, awardees, and funding experts. All postdocs are welcome to participate.
Session 1 | F32 Information Session & Panel
Date: TBD
Time: TBD
Location: In person
Explore the path to securing your own funding with this Information Session & Panel dedicated to obtaining a Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) Individual Postdoctoral Fellowship (Parent F32). From 10:00-10:45AM, Patrick Brandt will provide an overview of the F32 grant application essentials, and from 10:45-11:45PM, you will hear from recent F32 awardees and Dr. Jason Franz, a recent study section member. Whether you’re actively applying for an F32 grant, looking for guidance from successful recipients, or simply exploring the application process, this session should be informative. All postdocs are welcome.
Session 2 | F32 Mock Review
Date: TBD
Time: TBD
Location: Virtual
This virtual session will simulate an NIH F32 study section, with experienced faculty members reviewing and discussing an F32 fellowship application. Participants will gain insight into how reviewers evaluate proposals, common strengths and weaknesses, and what distinguishes competitive applications. This mock review is designed to demystify the review process and help postdocs better prepare their own F32 submissions. Time will be reserved for attendees to ask questions and engage directly with the faculty reviewers.
Session 3 | K99: Information Session & Panel
Date: TBD
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: In Person, TBD
Registration: Coming Soon
Interested in securing independent funding? This session will focus on the NIH Pathway to Independence Award (K99/R00) and provide valuable insights into the application process. From 10:00-11:00 AM, Susan Pusek from NC TraCS will outline key aspects of the K99/R00 grant, including eligibility requirements, essential components, and tips for crafting a strong proposal. From 11:00AM -12:00PM, recent K99 recipients and a former study section member will share their experiences and offer practical advice on submitting a competitive application and transitioning to an independent research career. Whether you’re actively preparing a K99 application, seeking advice from successful recipients, or exploring future funding options, this session will provide valuable guidance. All postdocs are welcome.