
BIRCWH Program
BIRCWH Prospective Scholar
The aim of this training program is to place junior investigators invested in women’s health and/or sex difference research on the path to be competitive for NIH independent K- or R- awards. Success of the program is judged by the number of trainees who go on to secure independent NIH K-awards and NIH R21 grants in the short term, and NIH R01, and R01 equivalent funding in the long term, for women’s health and/or sex differences research. All research fields and approaches are encouraged to apply, including but not limited to basic science, translational, clinical, epidemiological, and health services research.
UMN K12 Award Information
- 75% (50% Surgeon) salary support (up to $100,000 inclusive of fringe), $30,000 in research and career development support per year
- Appointment is for three years contingent on satisfactory performance
- Professional development and leadership opportunities including but not limited to National Center for Faculty Development and Diversity, OpEd Project training, etc.
- Networking and collaboration opportunities across local and national networks including but not limited to Midwest BIRCWH scholar consortium, meeting with national leaders, hosting a visiting scholar, an inside look into National Institute of Health, etc.
Eligibility
- Assistant Professor (in rank ≤ 6 years; Have no more than six years of research or research training experience beyond their last doctoral degree) at the University of Minnesota
- Demonstrate a commitment to developing a sustainable research career in women’s health and or sex differences.
Tips and Resources
We have generated a few tips and resources we think might be helpful for prospective scholars putting together their application materials.
- Schedule a meeting with a BIRCWH PI to discuss potential mentors by reaching out to Kait Macheledt ([email protected])
- Familiarize yourself with the UMN BIRCWH Request for Applications details and requirements
- Develop a relationship with your departmental pre-awards staff and University of Minnesota Library grant writing resources and CTSI grant writing resources
Familiarize yourself with successful components to NIH K applications including
BIRCWH Career Development Pathways Conceptual Model

We are currently not accepting Letters of Intent (LOI).
Our next cycle is expected to open in January 2025 for appointment in January 2026.