SOAR Scholarship Applications Now Open!

April 9, 2026 • 9:28 a.m.

We are excited to announce that applications are now open for the SOAR (Strengthening Outcomes and Assessment in Residency) Scholar Program, a unique research opportunity offered through the collaboration of the Association of Family Medicine Residency Directors (AFMRD) and the American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) Foundation. This year, we have two (2) scholar positions available. This is your chance to advance your scholarship, deepen your understanding of family medicine residency design, and contribute meaningfully to the future of family medicine residency innovation. WHAT IS THE SOAR SCHOLAR PROGRAM? The SOAR Scholar Program provides residency leaders with a structured, mentored research experience in partnership with ABFM. Scholars gain access to ABFM and other GME data, expert mentorship, and dedicated time to pursue a research question that matters to you and to the field. ELIGIBILITY Applications are open to residency leaders with an active AFMRD member on faculty at their program or in their family medicine department. Eligible roles include: Program Directors Associate Program Directors CCC Chairs PEC Chairs Research Directors Directors of Osteopathic Education Medical Directors Educational/Curriculum and Instruction Directors Residency Program Administrators/Coordinators Please note: Only one applicant per residency program may apply per cycle. PROGRAM COMMITMENTS Selected scholars will be expected to: Complete a 5-consecutive-business-day in-person residency at the ABFM in Lexington, KY within 4 months of acceptance (dates are flexible and set by mutual agreement) Attend a virtual orientation with ABFM staff Participate in regular updates and ongoing communication with ABFM staff and mentors Complete data analysis within 12 months of program start Present research within 18 to 24 months of beginning the program (funded by AFMRD) Travel and lodging expenses are reimbursed per AFMRD policy. Per diem and family travel expenses are not covered. APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS Your application must include a letter of support from your Program Director, Department Chair, Designated Institutional Official, or GME Chair acknowledging your time away from the program for the Lexington, KY residency and protected time for project work at your home institution. SELECTION PROCESS SOAR Staff will review all applications within 4 weeks of the application cycle closure to confirm fit of research interests to the SOAR aims. The AFMRD Board of Directors will then review confirmed applications to select the two SOAR Scholars. DEADLINE Applications are due May 15, 2026. We strongly encourage you to apply, or to share this opportunity with a colleague who would be an excellent candidate. We believe the AFMRD community is full of talented residency leaders that can help identify key drivers for future success. For full program details and to apply, click HERE. Questions? Contact us at help@fmsoar.org or Jay Fetter at 877-223-7437. We look forward to receiving your application! ------------------------------ Lisa Ochs Executive Director AFMRD ------------------------------