For both scholar awards and new investigator awards, applications are encouraged from scientists in other fields who want to reorient their research to molecular pathogenic mycology and the host response. However, such candidates must describe how they intend to obtain or have access to the expertise necessary for working with fungal pathogens. Potential avenues include taking a mycology training course, working in the laboratory of an established mycology researcher, and hiring a postdoctoral student trained in the field. Candidates also may submit applications that include the direct participation of a scientific collaborator who has expertise that will help accomplish the proposed research. Selection BWF has appointed an outside advisory committee composed of distinguished scientists in the field of pathogenic mycology to review the applications and make recommendations for approval by the Fund s Board of Directors.
Selection is based on a number of factors.
These factors include the candidate s qualifications and potential to conduct innovative research, as well as the quality and originality of the proposed research and its potential to advance molecular pathogenic mycology. BWF is interested especially in candidates who propose novel ways for probing difficult problems that hold potential for scientific advancement in medical mycology. Proposals that primarily extend work under way are less favored than proposals that include new ideas and approaches for the study of fungal pathogens. Candidates therefore should demonstrate clearly how the proposed research differs from work already in progress in their laboratory. In addition, candidates from other fields who are reorienting their research to molecular pathogenic mycology and the host response will be evaluated on their plans for obtaining the requisite expertise for working in this area.