Dr. A. Jean Ayres Doctoral Candidate Research Scholarship

About this program

The American Occupational Therapy Foundation offers the Dr. A. Jean Ayres Doctoral Candidate Research Scholarship, a $5,000 award supporting doctoral research expenses in sensory integration and sensory processing, including data collection, analysis, materials, dissertation costs, and dissemination. Applications open January 5, 2027, and are due February 20, 2027. Eligible applicants must be occupational therapists enrolled in a research doctorate at a U.S. academic institution, have completed coursework and defended their dissertation proposal, and conduct sensory-focused research with an appropriate mentor. Applicants must also be U.S. citizens or hold suitable residency or visa documentation; IRB approval must be obtained before funding is released.