Get Clarity on Your CCTS K12 Application— Deadline February 23, 2026
Introduction
The UIC Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCTS) is now accepting applications for the K12 Clinical and Translational Science (CATS) Scholars Program, a two‑year career development award designed to accelerate the growth of early‑stage clinical and translational scientists.
The program supports scholars across a wide range of disciplines—including medicine, dentistry, nursing, psychology, pharmacy, engineering, and physical and occupational therapy—who are committed to advancing clinical and translational research.
About the CATS Program
The K12 CATS Scholar Program provides:
- Two years of support beginning June 1, 2026
- $20,000 annually in research funding
- 75% salary coverage/release time for research and career development
- Robust mentoring from senior translational research faculty
- Individualized career development plans
- Monthly career development sessions
- Subsidized CCTS support through Research Ally
CCTS anticipates funding two K12 Scholars, with the possibility of 4–6 additional Affiliate Scholars.
Translational Science & Priority Areas
We will consider a range of potential research projects across the clinical and health sciences and will work with funded scholars to develop and integrate an element of translational science into their project. We adopt the NIH’s National Center for Advancing Clinical Translational Science (NCATS) definition of clinical translational science.
Although applications are welcome in the broad domains of clinical translational research, we will prioritize applications that align with NIH priorities.
Application Process & Timeline
- Full applications due: Monday, February 23, 2026, by 5 p.m. CST
- Award notification: April 16, 2026
- Award start date: June 1, 2026
Learn More and Apply here: 2026 CATS Scholar Award RFA | Center for Clinical and Translational Science | University of Illinois Chicago
A recording of the “How to Apply” info session and Q&A is available. The Q&A portion begins at the 39‑minute mark and runs approximately 12 minutes.
For questions about the program or application process, contact Elli Resnick at eresnick@uic.edu.