STRIDE OT Research Fund

research@aotf.org

The American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF) provides Standing for Research Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity (STRIDE) funding. The program offers funding for a mentored research experience for occupational therapy (OT) graduates and clinicians from under-represented backgrounds.

The program will pair awardees with researchers (mentors) from around the country. The mentor may be identified by the applicant or by AOTF's STRIDE sub-committee and will be at an institution other than the graduate or clinician's own.

Awardees are expected to work approximately 10 hours per week for 16 weeks. Requirements include:

• Create an individualized development plan with mentor
• Participate in person or virtually in weekly/biweekly individual meetings, weekly lab meetings, and/or training to carry out expected research experience
• Prepare and present a final poster at an event during the AOTA INSPIRE Conference
• Complete a post-program evaluation

Eligibility requirements:

1. A Master's (OT) or OTD graduate who is a part-time or a full-time OT clinician
2. From an under-represented background, defined as:
   • Racial and ethnic groups including Blacks or African Americans, Hispanics or Latinos, American Indians or Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, and other Pacific Islanders
   • Individuals with disabilities
   • From a disadvantaged background, including but not limited to rural areas; health professional shortage areas; low socioeconomic status; and the foster care system

Up to $10,000 to cover costs associated with meeting mentors, participating in lab meetings, working with staff and students, and building critical skills through hands-on training in research methods and processes.

Links to additional guidance, application instructions, and the online application are available on the program website.