MBI Professional Development Fund

Overview:

The McKnight Brain Institute (MBI) is now accepting applications for the new Professional Development Fund, designed to assist graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and faculty in advancing their neuroscience careers. This fund offers support to cover a wide range of professional development activities, including but not limited to:

  • Travel to present first-author research at national or international conferences.
  • Enrollment in specialized training courses or workshops.
  • Short-term research experiences at external institutions.

Eligibility:

  • Graduate students, postdocs, or faculty member in neuroscience-related fields.
  • Applicant or their PI must be a member of the MBI.

Applications:

All applications must be submitted as a single PDF at https://bit.ly/MBI-ProfDev. Applications should include:

  1. One-Page Summary: Describe the professional development opportunity; its relevance to your career goals; and how it will enhance your skills and networks. In addition, describe the total amount requested; how requested funds will be utilized; and any institutional, departmental, and external funding sources already secured.
  2. Letter of Support: A letter from your supervisor or department chair outlining their support for your application and the anticipated benefits of the opportunity.
  3. Biosketch or CV: A brief biographical sketch or CV highlighting your academic and professional background, including relevant experience in neuroscience.

Review Process & Evaluation Criteria:

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and evaluated monthly by the MBI leadership team. Evaluations will be based on the following criteria:

  • Relevance and Impact: The significance of the professional development opportunity in advancing the applicant’s research, skills, or expertise.
  • Career Alignment: The opportunity’s alignment with the applicant’s long-term career goals and potential to foster meaningful growth.
  • Merit and Achievement: Demonstrated excellence, such as presenting first-author research or acceptance into competitive courses.

Contact for More Information:

Kate Casey-Sawicki, Assistant Director of Research Administration

ksawicki@ufl.edu