The Early Faculty Research Award (EFRA) is an internal funding mechanism aimed at nurturing early-career UTMB investigators on their path to becoming independent scientists. EFRA provides support for up to 2 years with the expectation that Scholars will develop independent research programs and secure external funding at the level of an NIH K-award or R01 equivalent.
Budget
A) Salary Support: up to $75,000/year (commensurate with current salary and NIH K-award schedule; not exceeding 75% total salary plus fringe benefits). Departmental commitment of funds covering remaining 25% salary.
B) Research & Training Support: $25,000 annually for research materials & operations, training expenses and travel (up to $2,000).
Eligibility (by September 1)
A) Applicants who have completed Residency, OR Specialty Fellowship, OR are in advanced stage of Postdoctoral Research Fellowship: Candidates must have a letter of the department Chair supporting, if accepted into the EFRA program, appointment to an Instructor faculty position OR non-tenure track Assistant Professor.
B) Applicants who currently hold Instructor or non-tenure track Assistant Professor positions: must be formally appointed faculty at the Instructor or non-tenure track, Assistant Professor rank, AND be no more than 2 years since the start of their faculty appointment.
C) Applicants who currently are Research Scientists: Most applicants who have completed the maximum 5 years of postdoctoral training and then moved into a Research Scientist position are not eligible, but in unusual circumstances will be considered; such potential applicants should consult with Dr Scott Weaver, EFRA Program Director, prior to preparing an application.
All applicants must be a permanent US resident; or provide evidence of a UTMB-supported application for permanent residency, or plans to apply for external funding that does not require permanent resident status (eg K99/R00), considered on a case-by-case basis.
FY27 EFRA RFA (EXPIRED)
Applications are reviewed by the EFRA Steering Committee, made up of UTMB Faculty, including members of the Grants Review & Oversight (GRO) committee.