Applications Open: 01/05/2026
Application Deadline: 02/20/2026
Overview
Building Diversity in Occupational Therapy Research
In honor of Nancy Talbot, MEd, OTR, FAOTA, The Nancy Talbot Postdoctoral Research Fellowship supports postdoctoral researchers from racial and ethnic groups underrepresented in health sciences, advancing diversity and fostering the perspectives essential for addressing complex healthcare challenges.
Award Amount: $30,000 annually
Duration: One year with a competitive renewal option
Application Opens: January 5, 2026
Application Deadline: February 20, 2026
About this Fellowship
Why Diversity Matters
Scientists and trainees from diverse backgrounds and life experiences bring unique perspectives and creativity essential for:
- Addressing complex scientific problems
- Understanding diverse patient populations
- Developing culturally responsive interventions
- Advancing health equity through research
About Nancy Holt Talbot
A Legacy of Leadership (1931-2018)
Nancy Holt Talbot, MEd, OTR, FAOTA, dedicated her career to advancing occupational therapy education and research, exemplifying the leadership and innovation this fellowship seeks to foster. Her enduring commitment to excellence lives on through this fellowship, which supports and empowers the next generation of diverse occupational therapy researchers shaping the future of the profession.
Career Highlights
Educational Foundation
- Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy, University of New Hampshire
- Master’s degree in Education, University of New Hampshire
Clinical Excellence
- Five years as a Psychiatric Occupational Therapist in Massachusetts VA hospitals
- Pioneered mental health OT approaches
Academic Leadership
- Instructor, University of New Hampshire
- Faculty member, Tufts University
- Full Professor and Department Chair, Boston University OT Department
- Dean, Sargent College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences (until 1996)
Professional Service
- Treasurer, American Occupational Therapy Association (5 years)
- Board of Directors, AOTF (2000-2009), serving on Executive and Investment Committees
- Chair of the Nominating Committee and Board Secretary
- Board positions with Assistive Technology NH and Easterseals Massachusetts
Fellowship Benefits
Financial Support
- $30,000 annual stipend for postdoctoral research
- Possibility of competitive renewal for the second year
- Support for research activities and professional development
Professional Recognition
- Named fellowship honoring Nancy Talbot’s legacy
- National recognition as a Talbot Fellow
- Connection to a network of diverse OT researchers
Career Advancement
- Foundation for an independent research career
- Mentored research experience
- Opportunity to build preliminary data for future grants
Why Apply?
Fellowship Impact
For Recipients
- Launch an independent research career
- Join a network of diverse OT leaders
- Contribute to health equity research
- Build a foundation for future funding
For the Profession
- Advances diversity in OT research
- Addresses health disparities
- Builds culturally responsive evidence
- Strengthens representation in academia
Eligibility Requirements
Who Can Apply
This fellowship supports postdoctoral researchers from the following underrepresented racial and ethnic groups:
- Black or African American
- Hispanic or LatinX
- American Indian or Alaska Native
- Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
Required Qualifications
Applicants must meet ALL of the following criteria:
Educational Background
- Hold an occupational therapy degree and possess a doctorate (PhD, OTD, DrOT, ScD) in occupational therapy or a related field.
- Non-OT doctoral holders must conduct postdoctoral work in an occupational therapy department.
Research Readiness
- Have an identified mentor with expertise in the proposed research area
- IRB approval in process or completed before application
- Conduct research at a U.S. academic institution
Legal Status
- U.S. citizenship OR appropriate residence/visa documentation
Application Timeline
2026 Fellowship Cycle
|
Date |
Application Stage |
|---|---|
|
January 5, 2026 |
Application portal opens |
|
February 20, 2026 |
Applications due by 11:59 PM EST |
|
Spring 2026 |
Award notifications |
|
July 1, 2026 |
Fellowship period begins |
Application Process
Required Materials
Updated application instructions will be available in Fall 2025. Applications typically include:
- Research proposal and specific aims
- Mentorship plan
- Career development statement
- Letters of support
- Budget justification
- IRB documentation
Application Resources
Download current materials:
Note: 2026 materials will be updated in Fall 2025
Connect with AOTF
Ready to advance occupational therapy science through foundational research?
Questions about the fellowship?
- Contact our research team at research@aotf.org
Stay updated on opportunities:
- Subscribe to AOTF emails
- Follow us on social media
- Attend AOTF events at professional conferences
Learn more about AOTF research funding: