SEO Meta Description: Discover the Maurice R. Hilleman Early-Stage Career Investigator Award, a significant scientific grant supporting early career scientists in vaccinology and related fields.

Introduction

Securing funding is a pivotal step for early career scientists aiming to advance their research and make meaningful contributions to their fields. Scientific grants not only provide the necessary financial support but also validate the potential of budding researchers. Among these opportunities, the Maurice R. Hilleman Early-Stage Career Investigator Award stands out as a prestigious accolade that empowers promising scientists to excel in vaccinology and related disciplines.

About the Maurice R. Hilleman Award

The Maurice R. Hilleman Early-Stage Career Investigator Award is dedicated to honoring the legacy of Dr. Maurice R. Hilleman, a renowned figure in the field of vaccinology. Established by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID), this award celebrates early-stage investigators who demonstrate exceptional promise in their research endeavors. The award encompasses a broad spectrum of vaccinology-related fields, including basic research, preclinical and clinical studies, manufacturing, production, and research pertaining to public health, agriculture, health delivery, policy, and regulatory matters.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Maurice R. Hilleman Award, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Career Stage: Early-stage investigators who are in the nascent stages of their scientific careers.
Field of Research: Focused on any area of vaccinology, encompassing basic research to public health applications.
Affiliation: Employees of commercial interests are not eligible for this award.
Commitment to Reporting: Awardees must include their participation in mandatory reporting to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and acknowledge NFID and sponsors in all related publications.

Benefits of the Award

Receiving the Maurice R. Hilleman Award provides numerous advantages for early career scientists:

Research Funding: Essential financial support to conduct and expand vital research projects.
Mandatory Reporting: Inclusion in reporting to CMS, enhancing transparency and accountability.
Professional Recognition: Acknowledgment of the awardee’s contributions and affiliation with NFID and supporting sponsors.
Conference Participation: Finalists are invited to present their research at the Annual Conference on Vaccinology Research, fostering networking and collaboration opportunities.
Publication Requirements: Ensures that awardees recognize the support received, promoting the visibility of scientific grants.

Application Process

Applicants interested in the Maurice R. Hilleman Award should prepare the following:

Research Proposal: A comprehensive outline of the proposed research within the scope of vaccinology.
Curriculum Vitae: Detailed academic and professional background.
Letters of Recommendation: Endorsements from mentors or established professionals in the field.
Compliance Documentation: Proof of eligibility and commitment to the reporting and acknowledgment requirements.

Applications are submitted through the NFID website. It is advisable to review all guidelines and deadlines meticulously to ensure a complete and competitive submission.

Past Recipients

The award has recognized numerous distinguished scientists who have made significant strides in vaccinology:

Nginache Nampota-Nkomba, MBBS, MSc (2024)
Lauren A. Ford-Siltz, PhD (2020)
Stephen N. Crooke, PhD (2019)
Christopher P. Karch, PhD (2018)
Aimee L. Cunningham, PhD, MPH (2016)

These recipients have contributed valuable research that advances our understanding and capabilities in vaccine development and public health.

Impact on Scientific Career

Being a recipient of the Maurice R. Hilleman Award can significantly influence an early career scientist’s trajectory:

Enhanced Research Opportunities: Access to funding enables the pursuit of innovative and impactful studies.
Professional Growth: Recognition opens doors to collaborations, speaking engagements, and leadership roles within the scientific community.
Increased Visibility: Publication requirements ensure that the awardee’s work gains broader dissemination and acknowledgment within the field.

Conclusion

The Maurice R. Hilleman Early-Stage Career Investigator Award is a remarkable opportunity for early career scientists dedicated to advancing vaccinology and related fields. By providing crucial scientific grants, the award not only supports groundbreaking research but also fosters the professional development of emerging leaders in science.

Ready to take the next step in your scientific career? Explore more funding opportunities and resources to support your research journey.

Learn more and apply today!