Annual Gut Microbiome, Yogurt, and Probiotics Fellowship Grant

Danone North America is offering two competitive $25,000 grants to graduate students pursuing research in the areas of the gut microbiome, probiotics, and yogurt as they relate to human health and wellness. This initiative is designed to encourage early-career scientists to explore the positive effects of nutrition on long-term well-being, development, and performance. Applicants must be full-time graduate students enrolled in an accredited U.S. institution during the 2024–2025 academic year, studying in relevant fields such as nutrition, health sciences, or microbiology. The focus of the proposed research must be aligned with non-clinical wellness and health applications. Danone explicitly does not support studies intended for disease treatment or clinical intervention. Eligible topics include the impact of yogurt or probiotics on aspects such as brain function, digestive health, weight management, or cardiovascular health, as well as broader investigations into how nutrients or foods influence the gut microbiome. All research must avoid the use of animal models and may only involve in vitro or ethical human clinical study designs. Furthermore, commercial probiotic strains—including those that are patented, commercially sourced, or product-isolated—are prohibited; only publicly available, non-commercial strains may be used. Grant funds may be applied toward tuition or other research-related expenses and are paid directly to the student’s educational institution. Students must be in good academic standing and at least 18 years of age. U.S. citizenship or permanent residency is required, and verification documentation must be provided. A confirmation of enrollment and academic standing from a university official is also required. The application period runs from January 14 to March 21, 2025. Applicants must submit a completed application online, which includes written essays, a current resume or CV, an official transcript, and one letter of recommendation. The letter must be submitted separately by a faculty member or advisor no later than March 10, 2025. Finalists will be selected by an external review committee based on the strength and feasibility of their proposal, relevance to the field, academic merit, and the recommendation provided. The awarded research must begin in the Fall 2025 semester. This grant represents Danone North America’s continued commitment to high ethical standards and scientific advancement in the fields of food, nutrition, and health.