The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Travel Award recognizes and supports researchers who demonstrate scientific excellence and encourages applications from demographic groups that have been historically underrepresented in fNIRS-related scientific research. The award also supports research focused on culturally diverse and underrepresented populations.
Two types of awards may be issued
- Cost of registration and SfNIRS membership fee, if justified.
- Cost of registration, SfNIRS membership fee, if justified, and reimbursement of travel expenses for in-person attendance (for example airfare and lodging).
Eligibility
- The candidate must be a member of SfNIRS at the time of the conference. Membership fee may be waived for applicants who demonstrate financial need.
- The candidate must have submitted at least one abstract to SfNIRS 2026 as the presenting author.
- The candidate should plan to present their work in person at SfNIRS 2026.
Early career and financial need
- The candidate must be an early career scholar, defined as a student currently enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree program.
- Applicants may also include scholars with a PhD, MD, or equivalent degree who have been in a research training program for less than 5 years since obtaining their last degree.
- Applicants who do not meet the definition of early career scholar but who can demonstrate financial need are encouraged to contact the DEI committee.
- Eligibility is based on demonstrated financial need and is open to all applicants.
- Individuals from groups historically underrepresented in relevant scientific fields are strongly encouraged to apply.
Examples of groups encouraged to apply
- Individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups
- Individuals from low income, low middle income, and upper middle income countries identified by the World Bank
- Women, transgender, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals
- LGBTQIA+ individuals
- Individuals with disabilities
- Neurodivergent individuals
- Individuals who identify with other marginalized groups related to underrepresentation in SfNIRS
Application materials
- Cover letter (one page)
- Needs to include an estimate of the travel costs.
- Curriculum vitae (maximum two pages)
- Submitted abstract(s)
- Letter of support from advisor, mentor, or PI
Deadline
Applications must be submitted at the time of submitting your abstract at the following site: Abstract supplementary information form by the abstract submission deadline, March 31, 2026.
Questions
Please contact the DEI committee at dei@fnirs.org.