Deeda Blair Research Initiative for Disorders of the Brain — flexible awards to accelerate research on severe mental illness

About this program

Deeda Blair Research Initiative offers unrestricted, flexible awards to accelerate basic research into severe mental illnesses—including mood, anxiety, bipolar and psychotic disorders—with the goal of discovering new diagnostic targets and therapeutic approaches and encouraging novel ways of thinking about the brain. Awards are decided by an independent Scientific Award Selection Committee and have supported investigator-led projects and early-stage biotech efforts in areas such as biomarkers, neuromodulation, and novel psychiatric therapeutics. Eligibility is aimed at individuals or groups of exceptional promise with a demonstrated track record of innovative work and proposals that are creative or potentially paradigm‑challenging; early‑stage companies may also be considered. Selection emphasizes scientific excellence, public‑health impact and adherence to standard conflict‑of‑interest practices.