The Todd Ouida Clinical Scholars Award funds the research of an emerging University of Michigan researcher dedicated to understanding and making advancements in treating childhood anxiety and depression.

The award is typically presented annually in the fall. It provides up to $20,000 in one-time research funding for studies at U-M targeting anxiety and depression in children and teens. We will announce the next application cycle in the spring of 2025.

Learn more about the 2024 Ouida Award recipient, Cecilia Martiniez-Torteya, Ph.D. 

Who can apply

The award is open to U-M scholars at every level, including trainee, in any school, department or business unit at U-M, who are dedicated to understanding the causes of childhood anxiety and depression and working to develop improved treatments.

Investigators from underrepresented backgrounds or whose research addresses health disparities within childhood anxiety/depression are particularly encouraged to apply. Underrepresented investigators are people whose identities have been historically excluded, underrepresented or otherwise minoritized in medicine, science, academics, and/or research. They include but are not limited to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC); LGBTQ2s+; disabled; or first-generation advanced degree.

Application & nomination process

Mentors, colleagues, or co-investigators may submit nominations, or candidates may self-nominate. The application should include the following:

  • Name, title and primary department of the nominee
  • A summary of the nominee’s work in childhood anxiety, depression or related field (up to 400 words)
  • A brief statement about why the nominee deserves the award (up to 200 words)
  • Nominator’s name and contact details

All nominations will be reviewed, and the recipient will be chosen by a selection committee.

If you are selected

The Ouida Clinical Scholars Award will be presented during the Annual Ouida Lecture, traditionally held in the fall. You are encouraged, but not required, to attend this event in person in Ann Arbor.

Within one month of receiving the award, you will be required to submit a project proposal of no more than three pages, which includes: 

  • A clearly articulated abstract, aims, research strategy and approach, and relevance to the field of childhood anxiety and/or depression
  • A detailed budget of up to $20,000, including a budget justification of no more than two pages
  • Your curriculum vitae

You will also be asked to provide a brief progress report at the midpoint of the project and a final report at its conclusion.

Questions

All questions regarding the Todd Ouida Clinical Scholars Award can be emailed to Dr. Michelle Kees, chair, Ouida Award Selection Committee.

About the Todd Ouida Award 

The Todd Ouida Clinical Scholars Award is made possible by the generosity of the Ouida Family to honor the memory of U-M alum Todd Ouida, who overcame the challenges of childhood anxiety and tragically died in the collapse of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. Learn more about Todd’s legacy.