The Camille Dreyfus Teacher-Scholar Awards Program

The Camille Dreyfus Teacher-Scholar Awards Program supports early-career faculty in the chemical sciences by providing a $100,000 unrestricted research grant. This program is designed to recognize and advance the teaching and research careers of exceptional individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to both scholarly contributions and education. Awardees are selected based on the quality and impact of their independent research, contributions to education, and potential for continued excellence. Eligible candidates must hold a tenure-track faculty appointment in the United States, including its districts and territories, in departments that grant Ph.D. degrees and emphasize both research and undergraduate education in the chemical sciences. Nominees must be within the first six years of their independent academic careers at the time of nomination, although exceptions for official tenure-clock stops may be granted. Each institution is limited to one nomination per year, and nominees may be renominated if they meet eligibility requirements. The selection process is competitive and emphasizes the nominee's leadership in research, their impact on the field, and dedication to education. Recommendations are informed by three letters of support, particularly valuable if they highlight the nominee’s research as an independent faculty member. Other evaluation criteria include awards, publication record, success in securing research funding, and contributions to undergraduate and community education. A distinguished review panel assesses nominations, with final decisions announced in early May following Board approval. Nominations must include a completed online form, a two-page nomination letter, a five-page research summary with future plans, a two-page statement on educational efforts, a four-page CV, and letters of support sent directly by the referees. All materials, except support letters, must be submitted as a single PDF by January 30, 2025. Updates to a nominee’s record may be submitted in a one-paragraph appendix no later than three weeks after the deadline. The $100,000 grant must be used to support the awardee's research and educational initiatives, with up to $7,500 allowed for departmental expenses. Indirect costs and academic-year salary defrayal are not permitted, although summer salary is allowed. Funds are generally intended for use over five years, and transfer of remaining funds requires prior approval if the awardee changes institutions. Reporting requirements include final and interim reports as requested. Recipients are recognized as Camille Dreyfus Teacher-Scholars, and all work supported by the award should acknowledge the Camille and Henry Dreyfus Foundation. For further information, applicants can contact the Foundation via email or phone. Institutions new to the program are encouraged to reach out to discuss best practices for successful applications.