The Early Faculty Research Award (EFRA) is an internal funding mechanism aimed at nurturing early-career UTMB investigators on their path to becoming independent scientists. EFRA provides support for up to 2 years with the expectation that Scholars will develop independent research programs and secure external funding at the level of an NIH K-award or R01 equivalent.
Budget
A) Salary Support: up to $75,000/year (commensurate with current salary and NIH K-award schedule; not exceeding 75% total salary plus fringe benefits). Departmental commitment of funds covering remaining 25% salary.
B) Research & Training Support: $25,000 annually for research materials & operations, training expenses and travel (up to $2,000).
Eligibility (by September 1)
A) Have completed residency, postdoctoral (no more than 5 years), or clinical fellowship, or equivalent.
B) Be formally appointed at the instructor or non-tenure track, Assistant Professor rank (no more than 2 years).
2026 EFRA RFA
| 2026 Key Dates | |
| April 1, 2026 | RFA Release |
| May 13, 2026 | Application Deadline |
| June 10, 2026 | EFRA Steering Committee Review |
| July 2026 | Awardees Notified |
| September 1, 2026 | Program Start Date |
Applications are reviewed by the EFRA Steering Committee, made up of UTMB Faculty, including members of the Grants Review & Oversight (GRO) committee.