The Machiah Foundation, a supporting foundation of the Jewish Community Federation of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin & Sonoma Counties has initiated the Machiah Foundation/JCF Program to Support Life Sciences Fellowship Training in the United States for Citizens of the State of Israel Research Fellowship to support PhD and MD-level scientists seeking advanced basic research training in the life sciences in the United States. Emphasis is placed on the identification of important scientific questions that will be addressed using novel and innovative approaches. The program is focused on the support of studies aimed at the elucidation of fundamental biological mechanisms rather than on applied research. However, applications proposing basic research that addresses clinically-important questions are relevant to the aims of this program.

Fellowships will be awarded for a two-year period, with $60,000 USD paid annually, contingent on satisfactory progress.  Consideration may be given to a third year of stipend support under exceptional circumstances.  All Fellows must submit a scientific report, endorsed by the research mentor, describing the progress of their research after 11 months of support. Reports should be prepared following specific instructions that will be provided by the MF/JCF Fellowship Program. Support will be continued for a second year only upon approval of the reports.

The program has been established in recognition of political factors that limit opportunities for Israeli scientists to obtain funds to support further research training abroad.  Applicants are restricted to citizen residents of the State of Israel, with no limitations as to religion, ethnic background, or gender.  Applications will be evaluated by a scientific advisory committee for formal eligibility and conformity of the proposed research with the scientific objectives of the program.

The selection process is confidential and the results are final. No information will be provided about the ranking of applications, or the reasons for the Foundation’s decisions. The selection of candidates to receive fellowship awards will be made at the recommendation of a Scientific Advisory Board.

The number of Fellowship Awards granted may vary from year to year depending on the availability of funds.

2010 Forms:

• One Year Report Template
• Machiah Fellowship Guidelines
• Application Form
• Application Checklist

Past award cycles:

• 2008
• 2007
• 2006