Nancy Talbot Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2026 – $30,000 Award for Occupational Therapy Researchers

Posted by: Smart || Categories: Scholarship

The American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF) is now accepting applications for the Nancy Talbot Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2026. This competitive program honors Nancy Talbot, MEd, OTR, FAOTA, and is dedicated to advancing postdoctoral research in occupational therapy (OT) while championing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field.

The fellowship offers $30,000 in funding for one year, with the possibility of competitive renewal for a second year. It is specifically designed to support outstanding postdoctoral scholars from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, helping them strengthen their research expertise and contribute to health equity through OT research.

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Fellowship at a Glance

• Degree Level: Postdoctoral Research Fellowship

• Fields of Study: Occupational Therapy & Health-Related Sciences

• Funding Value: $30,000 (renewable for a 2nd year)

• Location: United States (U.S. academic institutions)

• Applications Open: January 5, 2026

• Deadline: February 20, 2026

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Why Apply?

The Nancy Talbot Fellowship offers far more than financial support. Fellows gain access to:

• Mentorship: One-on-one guidance from leading OT researchers.

• Research Opportunities: Conduct groundbreaking studies with real-world healthcare impact.

• Diversity Support: Dedicated to increasing representation in occupational therapy research.

• Career Advancement: Build a strong research portfolio and prepare for faculty or research leadership roles.

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Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Underrepresented Racial/Ethnic Background:

  • Black or African American

  • Hispanic or LatinX

  • American Indian or Alaska Native

  • Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander

• Academic Credentials:

  • Hold both an occupational therapy degree and a doctoral degree (PhD, OTD, DrOT, ScD), OR

  • Hold a non-OT doctoral degree, provided the research is conducted within an OT department.

• Research Requirements:

  • Have (or be in the process of obtaining) IRB approval for the proposed project.

  • Secure a qualified research mentor with expertise in the study area.

• Residency Status: Must be a U.S. citizen or hold appropriate visa/residency status.

• Institutional Requirement: Research must be conducted at a U.S. academic institution.

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Application Process

Applicants should prepare the following:

1. Completed application form (available Fall 2025).

2. Research proposal with IRB approval or pending status.

3. Mentorship plan signed by a qualified research mentor.

4. Compliance with AOTF award guidelines.

📩 Submit applications via the AOTF portal. For guidance, contact research@aotf.org.

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Key Dates

• Applications Open: January 5, 2026

• Deadline: February 20, 2026

• Award Announcement: Spring 2026

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Fellowship Benefits

• $30,000 stipend for one year

• Option to renew for a second year (competitive)

• Mentorship & networking with leading OT researchers

• Support for underrepresented postdoctoral scholars advancing OT and healthcare research

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FAQs – Nancy Talbot Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2026

1. Who can apply?
Postdoctoral researchers from underrepresented racial/ethnic groups with a doctorate in OT (or related field within an OT department).

2. How much funding is provided?
$30,000 for one year, renewable for a second year.

3. Where must the research be conducted?
At a U.S. academic or research institution.

4. Is mentorship included?
Yes, fellows are paired with expert OT research mentors.

5. Are international students eligible?
No, only U.S. citizens or those with valid residency/visa status may apply.

6. What types of research are supported?
Innovative postdoctoral studies that advance occupational therapy practice and improve health outcomes.

7. What are the key dates?
Applications open January 5, 2026 and close February 20, 2026.

8. Can the fellowship be renewed?
Yes, competitively for a second year.

9. How do I apply?
Submit an application, proposal with IRB approval, and mentor documentation through AOTF.

10. Who can I contact for more details?
Email research@aotf.org or visit the AOTF official website below.

APPLY HERE

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