The American College of Surgeons (ACS) invites surgical residents to apply for the ACS Resident Research Scholarships 2026, a fully funded two-year program designed to support research across general surgery and surgical specialties. This prestigious scholarship empowers residents to pursue academic surgery, gain mentorship from ACS Fellows, and contribute to groundbreaking surgical research.↚
Advance Your Surgical Research Career with ACS Resident Research Scholarships 2026
Scholarship Overview
The ACS Resident Research Scholarship encourages projects in basic science, clinical, translational, or health services research within accredited surgical programs. Scholars receive financial support, mentorship, and the opportunity to present research findings at the ACS Clinical Congress, fostering academic development and career advancement in surgery.↚
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must be Resident Members of the ACS, enrolled in accredited U.S. or Canadian surgical training programs, and have completed at least two postgraduate years. Research must be conducted before completion of the chief residency year. Applicants must have full-time support and leave from their department for the two-year research period and work with a primary mentor who is an ACS Fellow. Existing extramural research funding disqualifies applicants.Benefits of the Scholarship
Selected residents receive $60,000 over two years ($30,000 per year) covering salary, personnel, equipment, supplies, and travel for research purposes. Funding cannot be used for degree tuition. Study abroad is permissible, and Year 2 funding is contingent on satisfactory progress and financial reporting. Scholars gain mentorship from ACS Fellows and a platform to present research results at the ACS Clinical Congress.↚
Deadline
The 2026 deadline is expected in late August 2026. Exact dates may vary, so applicants should check the ACS Scholarships page or subscribe to updates.
Why Apply for the ACS Resident Research Scholarship 2026
This scholarship provides a unique opportunity to advance your surgical research career with full funding, expert mentorship, and international recognition. It is ideal for ambitious surgical residents aiming to become leaders in academic surgery and research.↚
Application Procedure
Applicants must submit:- Research Title & Executive Summary (≤400 words)
- Research Proposal (maximum 5 pages: Specific Aims 1 page, Research Strategy 3 pages, References 1 page)
- Two-Year Budget & Justification using ACS template
- Letter from Fiscal Officer approving the application
- Letter from Department Chair confirming residency position and full-time research support
- Letter from Primary Mentor (ACS Fellow) detailing mentoring plan
- NIH-style Biosketch for applicant and mentor (5 pages each)