2025 Research Grant Program: The Meredith C. Thomas Memorial Fellowship
How can I apply for TMA research funding?
Letters of intent and, if invited, full proposals can be submitted through our electronic submission platform.
If I have been funded by TMA in the past, may I apply for new funding again?
Absolutely! Please send us your letter of intent!
Why is this fellowship limited to specialists in rheumatology, pulmonology, neurology, and critical care?
The Thomas family who have established this fellowship has prioritized these specialties because of their clinical association with antisynthetase syndrome and lung disease in myositis. We understand, however, that myositis specialists often cross boundaries in their own clinical practice and research. We will happily consider related specialties such as dermatology, physiatry/physical therapy/occupational therapy, and other associated specialties, as long as the fellow has a demonstrable commitment to antisynthetase syndrome and lung disease as a primary focus within their clinical, research, and career priorities.
Is TMA no longer providing funding for pilot projects and non-fellowship projects?
TMA’s research grant program is dependent on donations from the community. Each year we evaluate the funds available and, together with donors, identify the research areas we are able support. TMA remains committed to providing financial support to qualified investigators and clinicians for basic, translational, and clinical research across the spectrum of myositis diseases and specialties with the goal of advancing our understanding of the underlying causes and pathophysiology, means of prevention, early detection, accurate diagnosis, effective treatments, and methods for curing myositis and related diseases and complications.
Why is TMA offering research funding only in antisynthetase and ILD in 2025?
The Meredith C. Thomas Memorial Fellowship honors the legacy of Meredith who was 33 years old when she passed away in November 2023 from antisynthetase syndrome and interstitial lung disease. Her family created a Myositis Research Fellowship in her memory to fund research grants for early-career researchers and clinicians focused on learning more about how best to treat antisynthetase syndrome and ILD. TMA is grateful to the Thomas family for their commitment to the myositis community.
How can I support myositis research at TMA?
TMA leadership is happy to receive donations in support of our research grant program. Those who wish to sponsor or supplement the research grant fund can email us to set up a time to discuss.
When will TMA announce their 2026 research grant program?
We expect to announce 2026 funding opportunities in the first quarter of 2026. Please sign up for our email list as a healthcare professional to be sure to see the announcement when it is made.
What if I have a different question or need additional information?
For questions about TMA’s Research Grant Program, please contact Linda Kobert, TMA’s Research and Communications Specialist at linda@myositis.org.