The G. Harold and Leila Y. Mathers Foundation aims to advance knowledge in the life sciences by sponsoring scientific research that will benefit mankind. Basic scientific research, with potential translational application, is central to this goal, and fundamental to our operating principles. Examples of current research areas supported include immunology, microbiome, structural biology, cellular physiology, cancer biology, genetics, genomics, microbiology and infectious diseases, stem cell biology, and neuroscience. In general, the Mathers Foundation reviewers look for innovative, novel proposals, which have scientific merit with an established published proof of concept, and which may not be fundable at the federal level.
Research areas that will not be considered for support include: Covid-19 related research projects (aims or sub-aims), Plant Biology Research, Oceanography, Space Exploration, Global Warming related, medical imaging technology related and/or electrical engineering technology projects, research conducted in human subjects (no clinical trials, drug discovery, or anything the Foundation deems pre-clinical drug development). 

The Mathers Foundation holds 2 cycles per year (Fall/Spring)

Budget: $600,000-700,000 over 3 years (inclusive of up to 10% indirect costs; equipment costs limited to $5,000)
Nominations Allowed: 3

Key Dates

Fall 2026 UTMB Internal RFA

The Robert J Kleberg, Jr and Helen C Kleberg Foundation Medical Research Grant funds highly innovative and groundbreaking medical research proposals from top tier institutions in both basic biological and applied research that will have the greatest impact on scientific knowledge and human health. Proposals should be distinctive and novel in their approaches, bot being done elsewhere, question the prevailing paradigm, and lead to advancement in knowledge in the field.  In general, the Kleberg Foundation has a strong preference for projects based in or studying topics of particular relevance to South Texas. Areas of particular interest to the Kleberg Foundation include cancer, especially glioblastoma and lung cancer; neurodegenerative disease, especially Alzheimer's; and vaccine development toward diseases that are prevalent in South Texas. Applications that address COVID-related research, aging-related research, ovarian cancer, and rare diseases are not responsive to this funding opportunity.

The Kleberg Foundation holds 2 cycles per year (Fall/Spring).

Budget: No limit; awards are typically $1 - 1.3 million over 3 years
Nominations Allowed: 1

Key Dates

Fall 2026 UTMB Internal RFA

The Susan G Komen Career Catalyst Research (CCR) Grants foster promising breast cancer researchers who are in the early stages of their careers by providing support for up to 3 years of protected time for research career development under the guidance of a Mentor Committee. Research projects must be hypothesis-driven, breast cancer-focused studies. They may be considered basic, translational, clinical and/or population science in nature and should align with Komen’s research goals and priorities and mission to save lives from breast cancer. Komen’s research priorities are conquering metastatic and aggressive breast cancers, advancing personalized breast care throughout the continuum of care, and improving health outcomes for everyone impacted by breast cancer.

Budget: $150,000/year for up to 3 years ($450,000 total; inclusive of up to 15% indirect costs; equipment costs are limited to no more than 25% of total direct costs)
Nominations Allowed: 2

Key Dates

2026 - 2027 UTMB Internal RFA

The Searle Scholars Program makes grants to selected academic and research institutions to support the independent research of outstanding early-career scientists who have recently been appointed as assistant professors on a tenure-track appointment. The Searle Scholars Program supports high risk, high reward research across a broad range of scientific disciplines.

The Searle Scholars Scientific Advisory Board is primarily interested in the potential of applicants to make innovative and high-impact contributions to research over an extended period of time. Applicants for the 2027 competition are expected to be pursuing independent research careers in biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, immunology, neuroscience, pharmacology, and related areas in chemistry, medicine, and the biological sciences. The Program does not ordinarily support purely clinical research but has supported research programs that contain both clinical and basic components. Potential applicants who are unsure if their research is appropriate for the Searle Program are encouraged to examine the research of present and former Searle Scholars. The Searle Scholars award is meant to supplement other funding received by an investigator.

For additional information and details about this award, please click here.

Budget: $150,000/year for 3 years ($450,000)
Nominations Allowed: 1

Key Dates

2027 UTMB Internal RFA