Applications Open: 01/05/2026
Application Deadline: 02/20/2026
Overview
Supporting the Next Generation of Occupational Therapy Scientists
The Nedra Gillette Endowed Research Fellowship honors occupational therapy leaders who have advanced the profession’s scientific foundation. This prestigious fellowship provides critical foundational support for postdoctoral researchers conducting groundbreaking occupational therapy research, advancing scientific inquiry into the human condition, while building a more diverse and inclusive research workforce by supporting individuals from groups that have been underrepresented in biomedical, behavioral, clinical, and social sciences.
Fellowship Goals
- Advance foundational OT research that explores fundamental aspects of human occupation and participation
- Build research diversity by supporting scientists from underrepresented backgrounds, including BIPOC individuals, first-generation researchers, people with disabilities, and those from economically disadvantaged communities
- Strengthen the research pipeline with early-career funding that leads to independent research careers
- Foster innovation in occupational therapy science and evidence-based practice
Who Should Apply
Ideal Candidates
- Recent doctoral graduates in occupational therapy, occupational science, or related fields who are committed to careers in occupational therapy science
- Diverse scholars from backgrounds that are underrepresented in health sciences research
- Innovative thinkers exploring foundational questions about human occupation
Research Focus Areas
The fellowship supports foundational occupational therapy research examining:
- Human occupation and participation across the lifespan
- Occupational performance and daily living activities
- Environmental factors influencing occupational engagement
- Theoretical foundations of occupational therapy practice
- Innovative approaches to occupational science inquiry
Fellowship Details
Award Information
- Amount: $5,000 for one year
- Duration: Post-doctoral training period
- Focus: Foundational occupational therapy study into the human condition
- Application Deadline: Applications open January 5, 2026
- Selection Process: Competitive review by an expert panel
Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Research excellence and innovation potential
- Foundational relevance to occupational therapy science
- Career development plan and mentorship quality
- Contribution to diversity in the research workforce
- Institutional support and training environment
How to Apply
Get Started
- Review eligibility requirements and research focus areas
- Connect with potential mentors at participating institutions
- Develop your research proposal with a foundational occupational therapy focus
- Prepare application materials well in advance of the deadline
- Submit a complete application through the AOTF portal
Application Support
- Information sessions: Attend AOTF webinars on fellowship applications
- Mentor matching: Connect with experienced researchers in your field
- Writing resources: Access proposal development toolkits
- Technical support: Get help with the online application system
Application Requirements
Required Materials
- Detailed research proposal focusing on foundational occupational therapy science
- Comprehensive career development plan
- Letters of recommendation from research mentors
- Academic transcripts and CV
- Statement of diversity and research goals
Application Timeline
- Applications Open: January 5, 2026
- Submission Deadline: February, 20, 2026
- Review Period: April to May, 2026
- Award Notification: June 2026
Impact & Alumni Success
Fellows supported through this program go on to:
- Secure federal funding for independent research programs
- Publish breakthrough research in top-tier journals
- Lead academic departments and research centers
- Mentor diverse students and early-career researchers
- Translate research into evidence-based interventions
Frequently Asked Questions
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: