Alzheimer’s Association Research Fellowship for All (AARFA) Program

The Alzheimer’s Association recognizes the importance of supporting the early career development of promising researchers working to advance the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of Alzheimer’s and all other dementias. Alzheimer’s Association Research Fellowship for All (AARFA) Program is designed to nurture the next generation of scientists by providing funding to postdoctoral researchers who have completed their doctoral training and are actively working in Alzheimer’s or dementia-related research under the mentorship of established investigators. This program aims to facilitate the transition of early career investigators toward becoming independent researchers, equipped to lead their own innovative studies in the field of Alzheimer’s and related dementias.

In line with this program, individuals from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply for grants and / or pursue specific career paths in Alzheimer’s and related dementia research. The Association believes that there is clinical and scientific value in having broad representation within relevant fields that reflects society.

The Alzheimer’s Association believes that there is scientific value associated with having scientists from underrepresented groups in the field as it strengthens the research enterprise for Alzheimer’s and related dementia. Clinicians and scientists from these groups are encouraged to apply.

Applicants are eligible for the AARFA program if they possess a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or equivalent), are within 10 years of receiving their terminal degree at the time of Letter of Intent (LOI) submission, and hold a full-time position at a not-for-profit academic, medical, or research institution. Individuals must not hold an independent faculty position (e.g., Assistant Professor or equivalent) at the time of award.

Note: Adjustments to the eligibility period may be considered for documented career interruptions due to family leave, military service, or medical circumstances, with all exemption requests requiring submission and approval prior to the LOI deadline. Only one primary applicant is allowed per proposal; multiple Principal Investigators (PIs) are not permitted, though collaborators and key personnel may be included.

Applications are welcome from all areas of Alzheimer’s and related dementia research, including but not limited to basic science, translational studies, clinical research, and psychosocial investigations. Projects may span topics such as disease mechanisms, biomarker development, therapeutic targets, epidemiology, neuroimaging, care interventions, or health equity research. The Alzheimer's Association feels strongly that the mentoring and involvement of researchers from diverse backgrounds and perspectives is essential to engaging cutting-edge ideas and thinking in addressing scientific gaps for Alzheimer’s and all dementias.

This grant is open to U.S. and international researchers.

Key dates

LOI and application submissions must be received by 5 p.m. Eastern by their respective deadlines. Late submissions will not be accepted - no exceptions.

• Letter of Intent Deadline: Feb. 23, 2026, 5 p.m. EDT
• Application Deadline: April 21, 2026, 5 p.m. EDT