The American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF) is inviting applications for the Nancy Talbot Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2026. This prestigious fellowship honors Nancy Talbot, MEd, OTR, FAOTA, and aims to support postdoctoral research training in occupational therapy while promoting diversity in the field.

The fellowship provides $30,000 in funding for one year, with the potential for a competitive renewal for a second year. It is specifically designed to support postdoctoral researchers from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups.

Fellowship Details

Degree Level: Postdoctoral Research Fellowship
Available Subjects: Occupational Therapy, Health-related Sciences
Funding Amount: $30,000 (renewable for a second year)
Location: United States
Application Deadline: February 20, 2026
Applications Open: January 5, 2026

Why Apply?

The Nancy Talbot Fellowship offers more than financial support. It provides:

• Mentorship: Guidance from experienced occupational therapy researchers.

• Research Opportunities: Conduct innovative studies that improve healthcare outcomes.

• Diversity and Inclusion: Support for scholars from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups.

• Professional Development: Strengthen your research portfolio and advance your postdoctoral career.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Belong to one of the underrepresented groups:

   • Black or African American

   • Hispanic or LatinX

   • American Indian or Alaska Native

   • Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander

2. Hold an Occupational Therapy degree and a doctorate (PhD, OTD, DrOT, ScD).

   • Applicants with non-OT doctorates must conduct research within an OT department.

3. Have a research mentor with expertise in the proposed study area.

4. Possess IRB approval (or be in process) for the research project.

5. Conduct research at a U.S. academic institution.

6. Be a U.S. citizen or have appropriate visa/residency status.

Application Procedure

To apply, prepare the following documents:

• Completed application form (instructions released in Fall 2025)

• Research proposal with IRB approval

• Documentation of mentor support

• Compliance with award guidelines

For complete application details, visit the AOTF official website or contact research@aotf.org.

Important Dates

• Applications Open: January 5, 2026

• Deadline: February 20, 2026

Benefits of the Fellowship

• Funding of $30,000 for one year

• Opportunity for competitive renewal for a second year

• Access to mentorship and networking within the OT research community

• Support for underrepresented postdoctoral researchers

FAQs – Nancy Talbot Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2026

1. Who is eligible for this fellowship?
U.S. citizens from underrepresented racial or ethnic groups who hold a doctorate and an occupational therapy degree, or a non-OT doctorate conducting research in an OT department.

2. How much funding is provided?
The fellowship provides $30,000 for one year, with a potential renewal for a second year.

3. Where must the research be conducted?
Research must be conducted at a U.S. academic institution.

4. Is mentorship provided?
Yes, each fellow will have a research mentor with expertise in their area of study.

5. Are international students eligible?
No, this fellowship is open only to U.S. citizens or those with appropriate residency/visa documentation.

6. What types of research are supported?
Postdoctoral research that advances occupational therapy practice and improves health outcomes is supported.

7. When does the application period start and end?
Applications open on January 5, 2026, and close on February 20, 2026.

8. How do I apply?
Applicants must submit a completed application form, research proposal with IRB approval, and mentor support documentation following AOTF guidelines.

9. Can applicants renew the fellowship for a second year?
Yes, the fellowship may be competitively renewed for a second year.

10. Who should I contact for more information?
For inquiries, email research@aotf.org or visit the AOTF website.