The Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) Research & Education (R&E) Foundation offers the Research Seed Grant, which aims to support investigators in defining research objectives and gathering preliminary data necessary for future funding applications. The grant provides up to $60,000 for a one-year project and is open to researchers globally who hold an academic appointment in radiology, radiation oncology, or nuclear medicine.

This funding opportunity encourages hypothesis-driven research in radiologic sciences, including areas such as basic science, clinical investigations, drug and device development, imaging informatics, and quality improvement. While all areas of radiologic research are eligible, projects that advance imaging science, develop or evaluate imaging technology, or utilize imaging science to address biological or clinical questions are particularly encouraged.

Eligible applicants must hold a full-time faculty position at an educational institution. Those who are not yet faculty but will be at the start of the funding period must provide a department chair’s letter confirming their appointment. Additionally, applicants must be RSNA members (if the applicant is a non-dues-paying member, a dues-paying co-investigator or scientific advisor is required). Investigators cannot have received more than $60,000 in a single year from other grants or contracts. Employment by a for-profit company in the radiologic sciences disqualifies applicants, and only one application per year to the RSNA R&E Foundation is permitted.

The 2025-26 application cycle is closed, with the next cycle opening in October 2025. Applications should demonstrate independent research efforts and emphasize the potential to secure further funding based on preliminary data collected. North American applicants must have completed advanced training and be board-certified (or on track for certification) by the American Board of Radiology (ABR) or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. International applicants must be certified by their respective country’s radiology board.

For further details, including application procedures, grant policies, and applicant resources such as grant writing workshops and research development guides, visit the RSNA R&E Foundation website. Contact RSNA at customerservice@rsna.org or call 1-630-571-2670 for general inquiries and 1-877-776-2636 for membership-related questions.