An official website of the United States government
About the Butler-Williams Scholars Program
The 2026 program will be held August 3-6, 2026 in Rockville, Maryland.
Presentations cover research topics including: the biology of aging; genetics and Alzheimer's disease; health, behavior, and aging; and health research related to aging. Discussion sessions focus on methodological approaches and interventions. The program also includes support and consultation for the development of attendees' research interests and advice on preparing and submitting research grant applications to NIA — directly from NIA scientific review and program officers!
Note to 2026 Applicants
Thank you for applying to the 2026 Butler-Williams Scholars Program. The applications are currently being reviewed and we anticipate sending out invitations to the selected candidates during the third week of May.
We appreciate your interest and the effort you put into your application. If you have any questions in the meantime, please feel free to reach out to us at ramesh.vemuri@nih.gov or niabwsp@mail.nih.gov .
gray
Who Should Apply?
Applications are welcome from emerging researchers, including those who may have limited research experience in the field of aging. Applicants must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or permanent resident. Applicants from all backgrounds, including individuals with disabilities, and women, are encouraged to apply.
Applicants must hold a doctoral degree (e.g., Ph.D., Dr.PH., M.D., D.O.). Only applicants working in the field of aging — or actively pursuing aging research — will be considered.
Applicant Selection Criteria
Applications are reviewed each Spring. The following selection criteria will be considered:
- Previous experience and training
- Affiliation with a research university that is either NIA-supported or has NIA co-funding from another NIH Institute/Center, research organizations prioritizing older adults, or laboratory
- Letters of recommendation
- A brief statement of objectives for attending the Butler-Williams Scholars Program
- Specific aims page to an NIH funding application
How to Apply to the Butler-Williams Scholars Program
Applicants will be notified of acceptance within 60 days of the submission deadline. Generally, the application requirements include:
- Statement of 150 words or less describing your objectives in attending the Butler-Williams Scholars Program.
- Letters of recommendation from two people familiar with your professional interests and scholastic achievements. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that letters of recommendation are received. Please ask each of your references to email their letter of recommendation directly to niabwsp@mail.nih.gov .
- One-page specific aims. Include full specific aims page as would be submitted in an application for award. Discuss expected outcome and impact of your research.
- NIH Biographical Sketch (General).
Application and Additional Resources
Use the online application form to apply. Extended Deadline: April 7, 2026.
The resources below can help applicants develop successful applications for the Butler-Williams Scholars Program.
Learn more about the Butler-Williams Scholars Program
Contact Dr. Ramesh Vemuri at ramesh.vemuri@nih.gov or niabwsp@mail.nih.gov to learn more about the Butler-Williams Scholars Program.
DEA