Nominations for Disease-Oriented Clinical Scholars (DOCS) awards are reviewed on a rolling basis so there is no application deadline. Funds are available to select up to 5 awards annually.

The application consists of the following:

• Application form
• Budget using the DOCS Program template
• CV that includes all research publications
• A research statement written by the candidate that describes the proposed research program. The statement should not exceed 4 pages.
• Letters of recommendation (n = 3): the letters should comment on the candidate's research accomplishments and future promise.
• Examples of candidate's publications (n ≤ 3)
• A letter from the UTSW Department Chair (≤ 3 pages)
  • Reviews applicant’s research experience and program
  • Explains how the candidate's research will fit into the department's current and planned research enterprise
  • Provides the following information:
    • The date of appointment to the faculty
    • The location of laboratory and office space
    • Any other resources that will be provided to the candidate to support their research program
    • The percent time to be protected for research during the award
    • The anticipated clinical responsibilities during the award
  • Name a committee of 3 mentors who will meet at least yearly to review the research program

Review Criteria

• Candidate's qualifications and research experience
• Quality of research publications
• Creativity and quality of the research statement
• Future promise as a disease-oriented basic or clinical researcher
• Evidence of commitment to education and training as an investigator
• Letters of recommendation and letter from Department Chair
• Evidence of departmental support, including ample protected time for research 
• Requested support being commensurate with the need
• Requests that will optimize career development and future success