Since the launch of our research program in 1986, we have funded more than $24 million in research.

Our grant program provides financial support for investigators conducting research in any discipline related to Marfan syndrome, LDS, VEDS, and other genetic aortic and vascular conditions.

Grant awards are based on review and evaluation of proposals by the Marfan Foundation Scientific Advisory Board, with final approval by the Board of Directors.

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Innovators Award
Applications due October 19, 2026

The Innovators Award supports faculty members exploring innovative concepts with the potential to improve human health. Areas of interest include basic science, clinical research, diagnostic tests, biomarkers, biomedical engineering, and imaging advances. This award is for $100,000 over two years ($50,000 annually).

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Career Development Award
Applications due October 19, 2026

The Career Development Award is designed to support investigators early in their careers in obtaining preliminary data in a key concept area that has the potential to lead to extended funding from the NIH, EU, and other large research funding sources. This award is for $100,000 over two years ($50,000 annually).

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Victor McKusick Fellowship
Applications due January 25, 2027

This Victor McKusick Fellowship is designed to support postdoctoral fellows embarking on a scientific career in biomedical research related to Marfan syndrome or any related conditions within the Foundation’s scope of interest. This award is for $150,000 for an MD or $100,000 for a PhD over two years ($75,000 or $50,000 annually). Fellows up to postgraduate year six are eligible. During the fellowship phase, the applicant must work with a mentor who can provide a training environment conducive to beginning a career in this field. 

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The Isabella Noelani Parson Welch Memorial Grant for VEDS Research
Applications due January 25, 2027

The Isabella Noelani Parson Welch Memorial Grant for VEDS Research supports innovative research focused specifically on Vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (VEDS). This two-year grant provides up to $125,000 ($62,500 per year) to advance understanding of VEDS and accelerate discoveries that improve the diagnosis and management of the condition and ultimately improve outcomes for people living with VEDS. Proposals may address any aspect of VEDS through basic, translational, or clinical research and are encouraged to explore innovative approaches that have the potential to make a significant impact on VEDS research and patient care.

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For further information, please contact Lauren May, MPH, Director of Research, at lmay@marfan.org.

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Funded Grants: 2014-2025

Click here for a list of 2014-2025 research grants funded through our research program.