Diana Davis Spencer Clinical Research Fellowship Award
Supports One clinical fellowship stipend for MDs entering orphan retinal degeneration subspecialty training.
The Diana Davis Spencer Clinical Research Fellowship Award sits under Foundation Fighting Blindness and supports clinicians training in orphan inherited retinal degeneration. It is a clinical fellowship rather than a basic-science grant, and it is designed to develop physician-scientists who can move between patient care and research. The award provides USD 65,000 for one year and supports up to three post-residency clinicians per cycle. Applicants must hold an M.D., D.O., O.D., or recognized foreign equivalent by fellowship start and must be eligible for subspecialty board certification when training ends. The program accepts domestic and international institutions and does not require a letter of intent. The strongest application shows a clear subspecialty training plan and a believable bridge from the clinic into inherited retinal disease research. The FY26 cycle has closed, and the next round is expected in autumn 2026, so the natural fit is a candidate who is ready to commit to a defined clinical-research pathway.
Each grant below is a distinct funding opportunity with its own eligibility, scope, and deliverables.