Klingenstein Fellowship Awards in Neuroscience

The Klingenstein Fellowship Awards in Neuroscience is a funding initiative supported by the Esther A. & Joseph Klingenstein Fund, part of the broader Klingenstein Philanthropies. This philanthropic organization is deeply committed to advancing scientific research and societal well-being, particularly in neuroscience, children’s health, early literacy, and environmental causes. The fellowship is aimed at early-career investigators conducting research with the potential to enhance the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of neurological and psychiatric disorders. The program supports both basic and translational research, recognizing the importance of fundamental studies that may not have immediate clinical relevance but could contribute significantly to disease understanding over time. The purpose of the fellowship is to provide unencumbered funding to promising early-career scientists, allowing them to pursue innovative and potentially transformative directions in their research. Awardees are selected based on their demonstrated research capabilities and potential for a successful career in neuroscience. The fund particularly encourages applicants who have not received significant prior private funding, and it emphasizes inclusivity by welcoming neuroscientists from underrepresented and minoritized backgrounds. Annual meetings are also hosted to promote collaboration and mentorship among fellows across different career stages. Applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements to be considered for the award. They must hold a Ph.D. and/or M.D. and have completed all research training, including post-doctoral training. At the time of application, candidates must hold a tenure-track or equivalent appointment, be independent investigators at U.S.-based institutions, and be within four years of completing their last postdoctoral training. In addition, they must inform the fund of any other funding sources, as overlapping support may influence award decisions. A letter from an institutional official confirming the appointment and institutional commitment is required. The application process is managed through an online portal that opens annually on September 15 and closes on February 1 at 11:59 PM EST. The application must include a confirmation letter, research abstracts, a detailed outline of the research plan with relevance to neuroscience, and three letters of recommendation. The Principal Investigator initiates the application and may involve administrative staff to assist in completing the process. Applications are reviewed by a Scientific Advisory Committee composed of distinguished neuroscientists, with award decisions announced in early June. Each fellowship provides $150,000 annually for three years, totaling $450,000. The award can be used for salary, research assistants, equipment, or other activities that support the fellow's research program. While institutional overhead is not covered, fringe benefits may be charged. All funds are directed to the investigator’s institution, with the stipulation that the full amount is made available to the fellow. If the fellow changes institutions, the funds and any purchased equipment are transferable. Continued funding is contingent upon satisfactory progress and submission of annual reports. Inquiries regarding the application process or eligibility should be directed to the fund via email at info@klingenstein.org. The fellowship is explicitly offered on an annual basis, with a recurring cycle each year beginning in mid-September and closing in early February. Awards are announced in June, and funding begins on July 1 of the same year. The fund operates from its office located at 80 8th Avenue, 14th Floor, New York, NY 10011-7159.

Priority given to those with limited prior private funding and from underrepresented groups