ISTAART is excited to announce that applications for the ISTAART Ascent Career-Development Program [1] are now open! Organized by the Alzheimer’s Association International Society to Advance Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment (ISTAART), this unique program is designed to accelerate the growth of emerging leaders in Alzheimer’s and dementia research through peer-to-peer connections, skill development and leadership opportunities.
Why Apply?
- Boost your career trajectory: Engage in monthly virtual and in-person forums, focused on career development, collaboration, scientific growth and other tailored topics, where you’ll gain invaluable insights and skills.
- Expand your network: Join a cohort of international emerging leaders in the Alzheimer’s research and treatment community and connect with experts at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) and beyond.
- Showcase your work: Submit an abstract and receive a travel fellowship to attend AAIC 2026 in London, including registration, travel and accommodation support.
- Ongoing engagement: Collaborate with peers in your cohort to organize an ISTAART Educational Event at AAIC 2027, and continue building your professional profile.
Eligibility
- Applicants up to 3-15 years from terminal degree* will be considered.
- Applicants must not be in tenured positions.
- Applicants must hold an active ISTAART membership at the time of application.
- Applicants must submit an abstract to AAIC 2026 before the January 2026 deadline to be considered for this program.
- Applicants based in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) countries are highly encouraged to apply.
- Applicants must be prepared to attend monthly cohort calls for the duration of the program, and take the lead on at least one virtual peer-to-peer engagement meeting on a focused topic.
*If you are less than 3 years from your terminal degree, we encourage you to consider the ISTAART Ambassador Program [2].
Key Dates
Applications Open: Dec 1, 2025
Applications Close: Jan 16, 2026 (Notifications mid-March 2026)
Program Duration: April 1, 2026 – August 1, 2027