IMPACT Collaboratory and NEXT STEPs Network Request Applications for Real World Data Scholars Program

Posted on by Josee Meehan

In collaboration with the NEXT STEPs Network and the Long-Term Care (LTC) Data Cooperative, the National Institute on Aging (NIA) Imbedded Pragmatic Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and AD-Related Dementias (AD/ADRD) Clinical Trials (IMPACT) Collaboratory (U54AG063546) is now accepting applications for the 2025 Real World Data Scholars Program.

The one-year mentored training program is designed to build practical skills and professional networks for postdoctoral fellows, advanced graduate students, and early-career investigators interested in using real-world data (RWD) to improve care of people living in nursing homes and assisted living communities, including people living with dementia.

Up to four awards, each providing up to $60,000, will be granted to postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and early-career investigators to gain mentored training and experience using RWD to improve long-term care.

Scholars will be matched with a program mentor to support their training, project development, and engagement in the program. They will also complete a research project using data from the LTC Data Cooperative to develop or validate measures applicable to clinical trials within nursing homes and assisted living communities. Scholars are expected to independently complete all analytic and scholarly work.

Additionally, scholars will have opportunities to engage in the activities of the IMPACT Collaboratory and NEXT STEPs Network, including Grand Rounds, training opportunities, and annual meetings that foster interdisciplinary exchange, professional development, and methodological advances. Information on prior Scholars and their projects is available here.

Read the full RFA here.

For more information, join the informational webinar on December 8 (see details below) and visit our Real World Data Scholars Program webpage.  Learn more about previous awardees here.

Informational Webinar

An informational webinar will provide an overview of the program and address applicant questions. Registration is required.
December 8, 2025 @ 1:00 PM ET

Applications

Due: January 15, 2026 @ 11:59 PM ET

If you have any questions regarding these funding opportunities, please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions or email IMPACTcollaboratory@hsl.harvard.edu.

Please help to publicize the IMPACT funding and training opportunities and encourage your investigators and colleagues to apply.