Fellowship Programs
The Epilepsy Foundation supports research that leads to better treatments and care.
We are developing an epilepsy research ecosystem that covers all parts of therapy, from idea to market. Our research initiatives include:
- Innovation programs that test new ideas and follow new research leads
- Engagement programs that improve communication between people with epilepsy, their families, advocates, researchers, and investors
- Digital tools that support research infrastructure
- Funding that supports young researchers to bring their ideas to life
Through these efforts, we're supporting research towards better treatment by developing the next generation of scientists. We strive for excellence, innovation, and radical thinking to find cures.
Fellowship Programs
The Epilepsy Foundation supports the next generation of scientists with funding, training, and apprenticeship.
In partnership with the American Epilepsy Society (AES), we support early career investigator awards. This partnership allows us to pool resources, reducing administrative costs. Studies show that supporting junior investigators increases their likelihood of obtaining more funding and remaining in the field.
- Junior Investigators and Clinical Research & Training Fellowships – The Epilepsy Foundation and AES support researchers who have recently started their own independent labs to study epilepsy and provide mentored support for clinical fellows or recently appointed clinical faculty who intend to pursue basic, translational, or clinical epilepsy research. Learn more.
- Susan S. Spencer Clinical Research Training Fellowship in Epilepsy Award – We co-sponsor a clinical research fellowship with the American Epilepsy Society, the American Academy of Neurology, and the American Brain Foundation. Learn more.
Other Research Opportunities
Susan S. Spencer, MD Clinical Research Training Scholarship in Epilepsy – Deadline September 9, 2025
Funded by the American Epilepsy Society, the Epilepsy Foundation, and the American Brain Foundation, in collaboration with the American Academy of Neurology.
This two-year award supports clinical research training in the field of epilepsy. It is hoped that this program, targeting clinicians who are fellows or new faculty, will foster the development of clinical care providers interested in pursuing careers in patient-oriented research.
Past Programs / Activities - no longer accepting applications
New Therapy Commercialization Grants Program
These grants aimed to accelerate ideas into new therapies for people living with epilepsy and seizures. Commercialization grants focused on projects demonstrating a clear path from research in the laboratory to new treatments for epilepsy.
Targeted Research Grants
In the past we have offered research grants targeting specific populations and/or comorbidities such as women with epilepsy, youth with epilepsy, seniors with epilepsy, health outcomes, morbidity and mortality, mood disorders and cognition, SUDEP.
Training Grants
Students in the health sciences and behavior sciences with awards of $3000 for a summer project.
Kevin’s Fellows
The award is named after Kevin Andrew Mateczun who had his first seizure at age ten. He struggled for several years with epilepsy, enduring countless seizures and two brain surgeries. Kevin passed away in August of 2001, in a drowning accident, when he was not quite 17. Kevin’s mother, Trish Barnes, created Kevin’s Pyramids Epilepsy Research Fund to support exceptional young investigators. View awardees
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the research priorities of the Epilepsy Foundation?
Please click here for an overview of the strategic areas that we invest in.
Who should I contact, if I have a question about any grant program?
You can always email grants@efa.org for any questions.
If I want to advertise a grant opportunity on this page, who should I contact?
You can always email grants@efa.org and let us know about the upcoming research grant! We are happy to share research opportunities throughout the community.
Resources
Epilepsy Centers
Epilepsy centers provide you with a team of specialists to help you diagnose your epilepsy and explore treatment options.
Epilepsy Medication
Find in-depth information on anti-seizure medications so you know what to ask your doctor.
Epilepsy and Seizures Helpline
Call our Epilepsy and Seizures Helpline and talk with an epilepsy information specialist or submit a question online.
Tools & Resources
Get information, tips, and more to help you manage your epilepsy.
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