The Nancy Talbot Postdoctoral Research Fellowship might just be the push you’ve been looking for. Let’s walk through what it is, who it’s for, and why it could feel like it’s made just for you, alright?
Program Overview
Program: Postdoctoral Fellowship
Coverage: $30,000 for one year (renewable for a second year)
Nationality: U.S. citizens or those with appropriate visa/residency status
Degree Level: Postdoctoral (must hold OT degree + doctorate)
Duration: 1 year (possible renewal)
Host Country: United States
Purpose of the Program
This fellowship is named after Nancy Talbot, MEd, OTR, FAOTA—a trailblazer who wore many hats: from VA psych OT to academic dean at Boston University. The award honors her legacy by supporting emerging OT researchers. But here’s the juicy part: it’s laser-focused on diversity. The aim? To bring more voices, more perspectives, and more creativity into OT research, especially from groups that have historically been underrepresented in biomedical science. It’s not just about giving money—it’s about shifting the entire research scene to better reflect our world.
Eligibility
Got your heart set on this? Let’s make sure you’re eligible. Here’s the roster of must-haves:
- Underrepresented background: Black/African American, Hispanic/LatinX, American Indian/Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander.
- Academic credentials: You need both an OT degree and a doctorate (PhD, OTD, DrOT, ScD). If your doctorate isn’t in OT, your research has to be housed in an OT department.
- Mentor in place: You need someone with expertise in your research area backing you.
- IRB approval: Already in process or approved.
- Institution: Your research must happen at a U.S. academic institution.
- Residency status: U.S. citizen or have the appropriate visa/residence docs.
If you’re checking these off—let’s keep going.
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Benefits
This is where the fellowship isn’t just about a check. Sure, it gives you $30,000 for one year, with a chance to renew if things go well. But beyond that:
- Solid mentorship from seasoned OT researchers.
- Research opportunities that let you explore, innovate, and maybe even challenge the status quo in healthcare.
- Network building: you get introduced to a community that cares about your growth.
- Professional development: it’s a boost to your research portfolio and future career.
It’s more than money—it’s momentum.
Fields and Focus
While the fellowship isn’t limited to any super-specific niche, it centers on occupational therapy within health-related sciences. Basically, if your research adds to OT practice, improves health outcomes, or explores new ways OT can make a difference—you’re right on target.
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Application Openings & Deadlines
Here are the critical dates to circle and maybe even latch onto your calendar:
- Applications open: January 5, 2026
- Deadline: February 20, 2026
New application materials—guidelines, instructions, forms—are expected to be available in Fall 2025. That gives you a little runway to prep and get everything polished.
Application Process
So what would you actually turn in? Here’s the breakdown:
- Completed application form (once available in late 2025).
- Research proposal with IRB approval or proof it’s in process.
- Mentor documentation—something that shows your mentor’s expertise and backing.
- Adherence to award guidelines—you’ll follow whatever format or rules AOTF sets out.
Details will be in the official application instructions and award guidelines when they drop. Until then, maybe jot down ideas for your proposal and drat a solid mentor pitch—just so you’re not scrambling.
Why This Fellowship Matters (Again)
It isn’t just well-funded—AOTF is putting real intention behind supporting researchers from backgrounds too often left out of academic growth. It’s about excellence, sure—but also equity. And that counts.
Final Thoughts
Wrapping up—this fellowship is a rare blend of heart, funding, and real impact. It’s honoring a brilliant OT leader, while lighting the path for new leaders who look different, think differently, and bring fresh problem-solving to OT. If that feels like you, or someone you know, don’t just think about it—start sketching that proposal, talk to potential mentors, and consider making this your next big step.
Warm encouragement to apply:
You’ve got something unique to offer the OT research world—your perspective, your voice, your questions. This could be the chance that finally gets your ideas in motion with support, funding, and people rooting for you. Take that breath, draft that outline, and go for it.
Official program website: https://www.aotf.org/Grants/Nancy-Talbot-Postdoctoral-Research-Fellowship