What does CDA mean in AWARDS & MEDALS

A Candidate Development Award (CDA) is a grant program offered by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to support the research training and career development of highly promising postdoctoral researchers. The program aims to nurture future leaders in biomedical and behavioral research.

To be eligible, applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents who have recently completed or will soon complete their doctoral degree (Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent). They must also have a strong research track record and a clear career development plan.

CDA recipients receive salary support, research funding, and mentorship from experienced scientists. The program provides opportunities for research independence, career development, and networking within the scientific community.

The CDA application process involves two stages. In the first stage, applicants submit a brief application outlining their research proposal and career development plan. In the second stage, shortlisted applicants are invited to submit a more detailed proposal and undergo an interview process.

CDA applications are evaluated based on the applicant's research potential, scientific merit of the proposed research, career development plan, and mentorship team. The selection process is competitive, and only a small number of applicants are awarded CDAs each year.

CDAs typically last for five years. The funding period may be extended for an additional two years based on the recipient's progress and the availability of funding.

CDA recipients are expected to conduct independent research, present their findings at conferences, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and participate in career development activities. They are also required to submit annual progress reports and meet with their mentors regularly.