About
AHEAD is designed for UW–Madison postdoctoral scholars conducting research related to improving health and well‑being for all. It addresses common gaps in postdoctoral training by offering a robust combination of mentoring, community-building, and career development. AHEAD supports scholars’ well-being while helping them build leadership and translational research skills.
The AHEAD program includes:
- Individualized mentoring tailored to each scholars’ needs and circumstances
- An interdisciplinary cohort experience that builds cross-campus connections and reduces the isolation frequently experienced by postdocs
- Career development seminars tailored to postdoctoral needs, helping scholars clarify goals, strengthen research skills, and prepare for faculty positions
- A community writing group to support scholars with day-to-day grant and manuscript writing, and dissemination of research findings.
The AHEAD Pathway Program invites candidates from across a wide spectrum of disciplines who meet the eligibility requirements to apply.
How to Apply
For a complete program description and eligibility, please refer to the Request for Applications (RFA).
- Submit an application for AHEAD
- If you have questions, email Amy Filut or schedule a meeting with her.
Key Dates:
- Applications due: 11:59 P.M. on May 31, 2026
- Program start date: July 1, 2026
Eligibility Requirements:
- Postdoctoral scholar or research scientist at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
- Research scholarship falls within the biomedical translational research spectrum.
- Postdoctoral scholars who have overcome adversity in their life/career.
Funding for AHEAD was provided by the UW School of Medicine and Public Health (SMPH) from the Wisconsin Partnership Program through a strategic grant administered by the SMPH Office of Basic Research, Biotechnology and Graduate Studies.
