The Morris Animal Foundation’s Veterinary Student Scholar (VSS) program is a prestigious initiative designed to jumpstart the careers of future veterinary scientists. By providing financial support for mentored research, the program allows students to gain hands-on experience in clinical or basic animal health research specifically focused on companion animals and wildlife.
Funding and Support
Selected scholars receive a stipend of $5,500. This grant is intended to cover living expenses during the project, allowing students to focus entirely on their research and professional development. Unlike many other grants, there is no requirement to submit a detailed budget form, as the funds are strictly for student support.
Eligible Research Areas
To align with the Foundation’s mission, projects must focus on advancing the science and health of the following groups:
- Dogs and Cats (Canine and Feline health)
- Horses (Equid health)
- Wildlife
Important Note: Projects focused on human health or production animal health (livestock) do not fall within the Foundation’s mission and will not be considered.
Eligibility Criteria
- Student Status: Applicants must be currently enrolled in an accredited veterinary medicine program (AVMA accreditation is not required) throughout the project’s duration.
- Exclusions: Students enrolled in combined DVM/PhD programs or past VSS stipend recipients are not eligible for this specific RFP.
- Mentorship: Every applicant must have a qualified mentor to oversee and guide the research project.
- Institutional Nomination: Each veterinary school or institution may submit a maximum of two applications. Students must be selected and approved by their home institution before submitting their final application to the Foundation.
Animal Welfare Standards
The Morris Animal Foundation maintains rigorous ethical standards:
- No Euthanasia: The Foundation will not fund any project that includes the euthanasia of animals for research purposes.
- Sentience and Ethics: All study designs must demonstrate full regard for animal sentience and the physical and psychological needs of the animals involved. Proposals undergo a separate ethics and welfare review before funding is finalized.
Key Dates for the FY26 Cycle (Round 2)
- Application Deadline: January 14, 2026, at 4:59 p.m. ET
- Project Duration: Projects typically last between 3 to 4 months
- Notification: Funding decisions are generally announced in March 2026
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