{"id":23364,"date":"2025-05-12T11:29:31","date_gmt":"2025-05-12T16:29:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/medschool.vanderbilt.edu\/career-development\/?p=23364"},"modified":"2025-05-12T11:29:31","modified_gmt":"2025-05-12T16:29:31","slug":"funding-opportunity-2026-vilcek-prizes-for-creative-promise-in-biomedical-science","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/medschool.vanderbilt.edu\/career-development\/2025\/05\/12\/funding-opportunity-2026-vilcek-prizes-for-creative-promise-in-biomedical-science\/","title":{"rendered":"Funding Opportunity: 2026 Vilcek Prizes for Creative Promise in Biomedical Science"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p id=\"block-60ec7e5d-042d-4b5d-bec4-71a30a4abb77\">The Vilcek Foundation will award three Vilcek Prizes for Creative Promise of $50,000 each to young, immigrant biomedical scientists who demonstrate outstanding early achievement. Applications are open through June 9, 2025.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<h2 id=\"block-7042eb71-eb1a-4a1a-a184-17509acece86\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Who Should Apply<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>You were born outside the United States to non-American parents<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>You are not more than 38 years old<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>You are a biomedical scientist who has conducted creative, independent research in basic, applied or translational biomedical science<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<h2 id=\"block-1a9e43d3-35d1-4336-91e5-c1f8be038151\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Should You Apply<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Unrestricted cash prize of $50,000 is awarded to each prizewinner<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Reflect on how your experience as an immigrant has shaped your success<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Receive an invaluable endorsement of your contributions to biomedical science from leaders in your field<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Receive a comprehensive public relations campaign to promote you and your work<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<h2 id=\"block-3813c861-b1a4-48ec-80da-b5592b1b0459\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Eligibility Requirements<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p id=\"block-24a37d05-df56-40cd-8d07-61e1843e8949\">Applicants must:<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Have been born outside the United States of America to non-American parents;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Not be more than 38 years old as of December 31, 2025 (born on or after January 1, 1987), Exceptions will be made for applicants who were born on January 1, 1985, to December 31, 1986, and who experienced career interruptions due to caregiving, medical, military, or parental leave;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Have lived in the United States for at least 4 years (or immigrated to the United States on or before December 31, 2021);<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Be one of the following: a naturalized citizen or a permanent resident of the United States; a H-1B or O-1 visa holder with a valid visa stamp; a H-4 visa holder with a valid EAD card; a recipient of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) relief; an asylee or an asylum seeker who has applied for asylum and has a valid EAD card. Please note that other types of visas including TN, F-1, J-1 visa holders are not eligible for the prize. Applicants may be required to submit a scanned copy of a valid immigration document if their application progresses in the review process. The staff at the Vilcek Foundation will reach out with instructions at the appropriate time;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Have earned a doctoral degree (MD, PhD, or equivalent);<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Hold a full-time position at an academic institution or other organization. Eligible positions include the following: assistant or associate professor or equivalent independent position. Applicants required to work under the supervision of a mentor (such as postdoctoral fellows) are not eligible;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Be directly responsible for the design and execution of the work submitted for consideration and have co-authored at least 1 publication;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Have at least one publication as corresponding author.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Intend to pursue a professional career in the United States;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Not be a past recipient of the Vilcek Prizes for Creative Promise.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-spacer\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"http:\/\/portal.vilcek.org\/prizeportal\">Start your science application<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-spacer\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<h2 id=\"block-0dea04c6-b7a5-4845-9c2c-6187c07206f8\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Application and Selection Process<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>1. Complete the application process. You will be required to:<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Register for the Vilcek Foundation Prize Portal\u00a0(You will receive an email prompting you to create your user profile. Please check your spam folder if you do not receive it.)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Complete your user profile<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Complete all application questions and provide the following:\n<ul>\n<li>Upload a PDF of your CV.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Provide information on authored publications. The jury puts the greatest value on publications on which you are the corresponding author.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Answer three essay questions.\n<ul>\n<li>Please describe your role in the conceptualization, research and writing that resulted in the articles you submitted. We are interested in the scientific insights you developed, the evolution of your research approaches and strategies, and any technological innovations you may have made. What is the major significance of your work in the general context of biomedical science? (maximum 3,500 characters including spaces)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Please reflect briefly on your background and experiences in developing your scientific knowledge, talents and skills. Indicate what you have done personally and professionally that demonstrates your creativity and productivity. Feel free to make mention of any individual who has played a significant role in your personal development or in regards to your work. In addition, tell us about your future goals and what you are interested in accomplishing in your career. (maximum 3,500 characters including spaces)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Describe the circumstances of your immigration to the United States. (maximum 1,500 characters including spaces)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li>Request two letters of recommendation by providing the names and contact information of recommenders.<\/li>\n<li>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Sign an age exception self-attestation if you were born between January 1, 1985, and December 31, 1986.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Submit a completed application by Monday, June 9, 2025, 5:00 pm ET.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><em>Please complete all required questions and sections thoroughly. Incomplete applications may not be considered, so we encourage you to take the time to provide detailed and accurate responses.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>2. A panel of distinguished jurors\u2014scientists and science\/medical writers or editors\u2014will evaluate each application based primarily on the individual\u2019s research contributions to progress in biomedical sciences, as demonstrated in the quality and significance of their research and publication record. The individuals chosen will have demonstrated exceptional independence and creativity by their 38th birthday. In addition, the applicants will also be judged on their ability to communicate the significance of their research to a scientifically literate audience.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>3. Recommendations of the jury will be submitted to the Vilcek Foundation\u2019s Board of Directors for final approval. All three winners will be considered equal in standing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>4. The winners of the Vilcek Prizes for Creative Promise in Biomedical Science will be notified in September 2025. Prizewinners will be invited to attend the Vilcek Foundation\u2019s prizewinner event in New York City in the spring of 2026. Travel expenses and accommodations will be covered by the foundation.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"http:\/\/portal.vilcek.org\/prizeportal\">Start your application<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-spacer\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<h2 id=\"block-9a344329-b8ba-4950-bab1-894a4bd598ab\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>I meet all of the requirements except for one.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>In order to be considered for the prize, you must meet all of the eligibility requirements.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>Do you have any tips for my application essay writing?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>Please use the essays to provide context to your work and the materials you submit for the jury\u2019s review. We are also interested in learning your immigration story to better understand you as a person and how it may have affected your work life and vision.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>What biomedical science categories are eligible?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Biochemistry<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Bioengineering<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Bioinformatics<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Biophysics<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Cancer Research<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Cell biology<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Chemical biology<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Computational biology<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Developmental biology<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Epidemiology<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Genetics\/molecular genetics<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Human disease<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Immunology<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Infectious diseases<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Metabolism\/Endocrinology<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Microbiology<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Neuroscience<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Physiology<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Stem cell research<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Virology<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>Can I submit multiple applications in more than one category?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>No, only one application per individual will be accepted. Please choose the category and subcategory or subcategories that best fit your work.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>How long should my CV be?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>There is no limit to the length of your CV, but we advise you to condense it to the most relevant points only.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>I work under a different name than in my ID.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>If you work under a name different from the one on your ID, please contact us at\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:creativepromise@vilcek.org\">creativepromise@vilcek.org<\/a>\u00a0to discuss this with the staff at the Vilcek Foundation before submitting.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>Can more than one person from an institution submit an application?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>Yes, we will consider each application in its own right.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>Do applicants have to be nominated by their place of employment?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>No, applicants are encouraged to create and fill out an application on their own. They do not need to be sponsored.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>Which publications should I submit?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>Please submit publications that best reflect your creativity as a scientist. Submit at least one publication in which you are listed as a corresponding author.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>In the citation section, are you requesting the number of times my publications have been cited by other publications?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>No, we are not looking for the number of times your article has been cited; instead, please submit a full reference allowing others to find your article in full, i.e., author names, journal name, volume number, publication date, etc.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>My biomedical science publication uploads are over the accepted size limit.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>Please be sure that you are submitting only the first page of your publication, or the first page and the page containing the abstract. Do not submit the whole article. The only exception to this is if you are submitting an article that has been accepted for publication but is still in press. If so, please contact us at\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:creativepromise@vilcek.org\">creativepromise@vilcek.org<\/a>\u00a0to let us know.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>I would like to submit an article that has been accepted but not yet published; is this acceptable?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>Yes, please submit the article in full if possible. Please contact us at\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:creativepromise@vilcek.org\">creativepromise@vilcek.org<\/a>\u00a0when you submit unpublished articles. .<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>I do not have any corresponding author papers yet but have multiple independent grants. Am I eligible?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>Applicants must have at least one corresponding author publication to be eligible for the prize.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>Can I submit a publication if I am a contributing author, instead of a corresponding author?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>You do not have to be the corresponding author on all publications, but one of your submitted applications should be as a corresponding author.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>What type of visas are eligible to apply?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>You are eligible if you currently hold a valid O-1 or H-1B or H-4 visa and have been residing in the United States for at least 4 years. Any other visa status is not eligible.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>I am currently applying for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status; am I eligible?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>You are eligible if you have an I-797 approval notice showing approval of the I-821D DACA application. If you are in the process of applying or reapplying for DACA and expect to have the proper documentation by July 2025, please contact us at\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:creativepromise@vilcek.org\">creativepromise@vilcek.org<\/a>\u00a0before submitting your application.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>I am currently in the process of applying for a green card; am I eligible?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>If you are in the process of finalizing the application for a green card and expect to have the proper documentation by July 2025, please contact us at\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:creativepromise@vilcek.org\">creativepromise@vilcek.org<\/a>\u00a0before submitting your application.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>My temporary green card has expired, but I have submitted paperwork to become a permanent resident. I do not know if and when they will receive my information. Am I eligible?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>Yes, applicants in the process of becoming a permanent resident are eligible. Please contact us at\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:creativepromise@vilcek.org\">creativepromise@vilcek.org<\/a>\u00a0for further instructions.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>My green card or visa has expired.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>You need a valid visa in order to be eligible. If your green card has expired, please contact us at\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:creativepromise@vilcek.org\">creativepromise@vilcek.org<\/a>\u00a0to with more details on when and how it expired.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>Do I need to submit my visa or citizenship documentation with my application?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>No, you only need to select which citizenship\/immigration document type is applicable to you when submitting your application. Applicants may be required to submit a scanned copy of a valid immigration document if their application progresses in the review process. The staff at the Vilcek Foundation will reach out with instructions at the appropriate time.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>Can I send my visa or citizenship documents by email to program staff?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>Please do not email your citizenship\/immigration documents to program staff. Applicants may be required to submit a scanned copy of a valid immigration document if their application progresses in the review process. The staff at the Vilcek Foundation will reach out with instructions at the appropriate time.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>My visa was approved, but I don\u2019t have a visa stamp yet.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>You may submit the approval notice in place of the visa stamp but please only submit your approval notice when contacted by program staff.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>I\u2019m currently in-between visas and live outside the U.S.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>Unfortunately, you are not eligible to apply for the prizes.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>I became a U.S. citizen when I was a minor and do not have a certificate of naturalization.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>If contacted by program staff to provide your documentation, please submit a birth certificate and your passport instead of a certificate of naturalization.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>I can\u2019t locate my certificate of naturalization.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>If contacted by program staff to provide your documentation, please submit a birth certificate and your passport instead of a certificate of naturalization.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>I\u2019m a U.S. citizen. Can I provide a copy of my passport as my immigration document?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>No, a passport may be submitted as a supplementary document only.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>I was born in Puerto Rico, Guam, or another U.S. territory; am I eligible?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>Unfortunately, we do not accept applications from individuals born in the U.S. territories.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>I was born outside the United States, but to American citizens; am I eligible?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>No, we do not accept applications from the U.S. citizens who were born overseas but are American by birth.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>I am over the age limit but not by much; can you make an exception?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>Unfortunately, we are not able to make exceptions unless you experienced career interruptions due to caregiving, medical, military, or parental or leave, and are within two years of the age requirement (born between January 1, 1985, and December 31, 1986).<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>What kind of documentation should I provide to prove my career interruption?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>Below are examples of accepted documentation:<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Confirmation letter from your employer, a medical provider, or a military office;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Official request for leave or approval notice;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<ul>\n<li>Certificate of birth or military service.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>Do you accept other reasons for career interruptions?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>No, we only make exceptions for caregiving, medical, military, parental or leave.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>Can the winners use the prize money to support a specific project, personal expenses, etc.?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>Each winner will receive an unrestricted cash prize; there is no obligation to use the money in any way.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>Are there any other monetary fees that I should be aware of before applying?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>Winners of the Vilcek Foundation Prizes receive unrestricted cash prizes, which is considered taxable income. Consult your financial advisor to understand any tax implications of receiving a cash prize from the Vilcek Foundation.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>If I win, will I have to pay taxes on the prize?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>Yes, you will have to pay taxes on the income you receive from any Vilcek Foundation Prize.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>Can I please change or update an already submitted application?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>No, but you may contact us at\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:creativepromise@vilcek.org\">creativepromise@vilcek.org<\/a>\u00a0to notify us of any changes or updates, but we cannot guarantee any changes to the already submitted application.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>Are the prizes considered grants?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>No, the Vilcek Foundation Prizes are cash awards and they shall not be considered grants. They will be considered taxable income.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>Can the cash awards be given to the institutions?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>No, the cash award can be paid to individuals only.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>If I am selected to receive a Vilcek Foundation Prize, can I decline to receive the prize payment myself and make a charitable donation instead?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>In some cases, yes. We have a policy on prize transfers that outlines scenarios for transfers of cash prizes. Following your receipt of a prize, please let us know if you are interested in learning more about our policy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>If I apply for the prize this year and am not chosen as a prizewinner, can I apply again in the future?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>Yes, as long as you are within the age limit of a certain prize cycle and are not chosen as a prizewinner, you are eligible to apply as many times as you would like.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>I applied for a Vilcek Prize for Creative Promise last year and am still eligible. Can I receive feedback on my past application in order to prepare a more competitive one this year?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>Unfortunately, we are unable to provide feedback on applications due to the high volume of applications received.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>Can I submit my application even though my recommenders have not submitted their letters?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>Yes, we encourage you to submit your application as soon as you can without waiting for your recommenders to submit their letters. You can always log in to your account to check on the status of your recommendation letters after your application has been submitted.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>I applied for a Vilcek Prize for Creative Promise last year. Can I please use the same recommendation letter I used in my last application?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>Your recommenders may submit the same letters (not recommended), but you still have to re-enter your recommenders\u2019 contact information and have them re-submit the letter.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>Is there a length limit for the letters of recommendation?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>No, there is no limit on length.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p><strong>May I apply for a Vilcek Prize for Creative Promise and submit a proposal for an organizational grant from The Vilcek Foundation?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>Yes, individuals who are eligible for Vilcek Prizes for Creative Promise may also submit a proposal for a grant on behalf of an organization, provided they are the primary point-of-contact for an organization seeking funding. The Vilcek Foundation only accepts applications for grants from organizations that are nonprofits under IRC 501(c)(3) in the United States.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\">\n<p>The Vilcek Foundation Prizes and Grant programs are separate and have different eligibility requirements. If you apply for both a Vilcek Prize for Creative Promise and a Grant, you will need to register accounts with both our prize and grant portals, and you will be required to use two separate, unique email addresses for each portal. If you have further questions about the prize program please reach out to\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:creativepromise@vilcek.org\">creativepromise@vilcek.org<\/a>. For information about grants, visit\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/vilcek.org\/grants\/\">vilcek.org\/grants<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"l-constrain--no-width\">\n<div class=\"align--left\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Vilcek Foundation will award three Vilcek Prizes for Creative Promise of $50,000 each to young, immigrant biomedical scientists who demonstrate outstanding early achievement. Applications are open through June 9, 2025. Who Should Apply You were born outside the United States to non-American parents You are not more than 38 years old You are a&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":21615,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"categories":[98],"tags":[16],"class_list":["post-23364","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-announcements","tag-funding-opportunity"],"acf":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/cdn.vanderbilt.edu\/t2-main\/medschool-prd\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2024\/05\/Funding-Opportunity-1.png","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/medschool.vanderbilt.edu\/career-development\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23364","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/medschool.vanderbilt.edu\/career-development\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/medschool.vanderbilt.edu\/career-development\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/medschool.vanderbilt.edu\/career-development\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/19"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/medschool.vanderbilt.edu\/career-development\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=23364"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/medschool.vanderbilt.edu\/career-development\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23364\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":23369,"href":"https:\/\/medschool.vanderbilt.edu\/career-development\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23364\/revisions\/23369"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/medschool.vanderbilt.edu\/career-development\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/21615"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/medschool.vanderbilt.edu\/career-development\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=23364"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/medschool.vanderbilt.edu\/career-development\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=23364"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/medschool.vanderbilt.edu\/career-development\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=23364"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}