The Burroughs Wellcome Fund aims to serve and strengthen society by fostering a diverse group of leaders in biomedical sciences, with the goal of improving human health through education and science innovation in areas of significant need. They offer financial support predominantly through competitive, peer-reviewed award programs, primarily funding individual researchers via their home institutions. Additionally, BWF grants aid to non-profits that work towards creating a better science environment, embodying the belief that diversity in the scientific workforce is crucial for research innovation and public service.
The Career Awards for Medical Scientists (CAMS) program, established in 2007, addresses the gap in funding opportunities for physicians pursuing academic biomedical research. CAMS offers $700,000 over five years to support early career physician scientists in transitioning to independent academic roles. This grant is open to researchers with MD, DO, DVM, VMD, DDS degrees, aiming for an academic career. The program encourages proposals in basic biomedical, disease-oriented, or translational research, with a keen interest in projects involving artificial intelligence, machine learning, climate change, and human health. Up to 12 awards are anticipated, including two for psychiatrists focusing research at the intersection of psychiatry and neuroscience.