The most pressing areas of unmet medical need often correspond to complex problems whose solutions lie beyond the limits of existing knowledge. AI, Big Data and other enabling cutting-edge scientific technologies have recently helped to breach these limits and forge the path to new solutions capable of improving health on both an individual and population level scale. This program is designed to encourage the early and creative integration/adoption of such technologies. Applications from all areas and disciplines of biomedical and health services research are welcome. However, preferential consideration will be given to those with a specific focus on AI and big data-based technologies due to their potential for broader and deeper interlinked impacts on health and income in a population specific manner. This focus aligns with the Mastercard Impact Fund’s mission of advancing inclusive growth using data science: to drive translational research and to improving health outcomes and at all income levels.
Candidates can apply for a year of research funding, thus freeing them from clinical obligations and supporting their ability to collect preliminary data needed for a competitive extramural grant application. Applications must include a letter of support from either the candidate’s Department Chair, Division Chief, and/or Center and Institute Director for the Mastercard Seed Grant Program. Letter requirements are described below.
The number of awards possible for a given Department, Division or Institute is not limited. Department Chairs, Division Chiefs, and/or Center and Institute Directors are encouraged to provide letters for all eligible candidates under their purview that are qualified and interested in applying.
Please see RFA for details.