Butler-Williams Scholars Program

The Butler-Williams Scholars Program provides unique opportunities for junior faculty and researchers new to the field of aging to gain insight about aging research. The program offers diverse perspectives and includes presentations, seminars, and small group discussions.

About the Butler-Williams Scholars Program

The Butler-Williams Scholars Program is held annually in the summer. NIA applications are being received now through March, 31, 2021.

Presentations cover research topics including: the biology of aging; genetics and Alzheimer's disease; health, behavior, and aging; and health disparities 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!

Who Should Apply?

Applications are sought from emerging researchers, including those who may have limited involvement in research on aging. The applicant must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or permanent resident. As an offering of the NIA Office of Special Populations, researchers with an interest in health disparities research related to aging are encouraged to apply. Applicants from diverse backgrounds, including individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, individuals with disabilities and women are always encouraged to apply for NIH support.

Qualified applicants must hold a doctoral degree (Ph.D., DrPH, M.D., DO, etc.). Only applicants working in the field of aging—or actively considering joining this research field—will be considered.

Applicant Evaluation Criteria

Applications are reviewed each spring. Participants will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Previous experience and training
• Affiliation with a NIA-supported research university or laboratory
• Letters of recommendation
• A brief statement of objectives for attending the Butler-Williams Scholars Program
• Specific aims page

How to Apply to the Butler-Williams Scholars Program

Application information for the Butler-Williams Scholars Program is made available each fall/winter. Applicants will be notified of acceptance within 60 days of the submission deadline in March. 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. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure letters of recommendation are received.
• One-page specific aims. Please include a full specific aims page as would be seen in an application for award. Be sure to discuss expected outcome and impact of your research.
• NIH Biographical Sketch (General).

View Butler-Williams Application form

Application Resources

The resources below can help applicants develop successful applications for the Butler-Williams Scholars Program.

• More information about preparing an NIH application
• How to write specific aims
• Inside NIA Blog post: Strengthen your research plan for a better score – Dos and Don'ts
• More information about preparing an NIH biosketch

Learn more about the Butler-Williams Scholars Program

Contact the NIA Office of Special Populations to learn more about the Butler-Williams Scholars program.