THE INTERSTELLAR INITIATIVE
Nominate a candidate?
The Interstellar Initiative is a unique opportunity that connects Early Career Investigators (ECIs) with peers from diverse scientific disciplines and pairs them with world-leading mentors. Through this international collaboration, scientists will expand their research potential, build powerful networks, and develop innovative research proposals.
Do you know of a colleague, friend, or student who may be interested in joining the Interstellar Initiative?
Let us know who they are, and we'll send them a special invite to apply for the 2025 program.
Are you interested in learning more? If you're not already talking with our team, email nyas@nyas.org for more information.
Are you interested in applying for the program? Click here to start an application!
ELIGIBILITY
Who Should Apply?
Hold a PhD awarded no earlier than 2015, with up to 10 years of active research experience.
Hold a tenure-track or equivalent faculty position OR has previously obtained a research grant to carry out their research projects for more than two years.
We invite researchers who meet the following criteria. Exceptions to these requirements may be made on a case-by-case basis.
Questions about eligibility can be sent directly to our team at interstellar@nyas.org.
Have a background in:
- Biomedical sciences
- Life sciences
- Physical/natural sciences
- Biotechnology/analytical technology.
Be proficient in speaking and writing in English for the purpose of professional science communication.
Why Join The Interstellar Initiative?
Accepted applicants will advance their research, building powerful international collaborations and make lasting contributions to the field of science.
Expert Guidance
Ready-to-Submit Proposals
Build a Global Network
Participants work directly with renowned senior scientists to refine your research proposal.
Participants develop a research proposal that is stress-tested, ready for submission, and backed by a solid mentorship framework.
Participants connect with exceptional researchers from across the globe, expanding your professional reach.
Application Details and Timeline
Applications are open to Early Career Investigators from across the world. Selected applicants will work in interdisciplinary teams, guided by experienced mentors, and will receive funding of up to 1.92 million JPY for their research proposal.
The selection process is competitive, and up to 24 applicants will be chosen.
April 15, 2025
The application period opens at 10:00 AM April 15 (Japan), 9:00 PM April 14 (EDT).
May 21, 2025
Final applications with proposals are due by 13:00 PM May 22 (Japan), 11:59 PM May 21 (EDT).
Mid-July 2025
Selected applicants will be notified.
August 2025
Selected participants attend a virtual orientation and networking session.
August - September 2025
ECIs are matched and grouped into teams.
September 17 - 19, 2025
Teams travel to New York City for a meeting to develop a research concept.
After the workshop
Teams will continue to develop their research proposals with mentorship from senior scientists.
About the Presenters
The Academy drives innovative solutions to society’s challenges by advancing scientific research, education, and policy. Since its inception in 1817, the Academy has played a critical role in shaping public discourse around science by providing an inclusive forum for the exchange of ideas.
AMED (The Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development) is the funding agency for Japanese medical research, analogous to the NIH in the USA and the MRC in the UK. Established in April 2015, AMED reports directly to the Prime Minister and four cabinet ministers.
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