Definition of a Young Investigator

The ZOLL Foundation is committed to supporting young investigators in their early career efforts. Such investigators are often challenged in getting their early grant support due to a lack of track record or pilot data. In evaluating grant applications, the Foundation focuses on the quality of the proposal and the applicant’s mentorship.  Pilot data may be submitted to support an application but is not required.

Who is a Young Investigator?  The following guidance is provided to help identify young investigators based on the ZOLL Foundation’s definition:

General Characteristics

• Not defined by age: Applicants can start a career in research at any age.
• Career stage: Ideally, applicants are in their medical fellowship or early years of a faculty position. Sometimes, applicants in their MD or PhD programs or medical residency may qualify, but generally, the Foundation will look for a clear commitment to a career that will include biomedical research.
• Researchers within 10 years of their terminal degree.
• Career Stage
  • Postdoctoral fellows
  • Instructors
  • Assistant professors or equivalent positions
  • Other healthcare or related professionals, including registered nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, pharmacists, paramedics, and educators.

Criteria for Exclusion

A young investigator is generally not someone:

• With extensive publications: Individuals with multiple original research, peer-reviewed publications where they were principal authors.
• With major grants: Individuals who currently have, or have previously received, a federal “K” or “R” type award or an award of similar magnitude.
• Undergraduates: Undergraduate students are not generally able to confirm a career commitment to biomedical research.
• Who has established their own research group.