The Kenneth Rainin Foundation invites applications for the Rainin Visionary Scientist Award from April 13 through June 1, 2026. Three exceptional postdoctoral researchers will each receive a $300,000 grant, awarded over two years, to support their innovative biomedical research relevant to Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
By supporting promising scientists early in their careers, the Foundation seeks to advance discoveries that may ultimately improve the lives of people living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. This one-time program responds to current challenges facing postdoctoral investigators by supporting their work and accelerating their transition toward independent research careers. If a grantee secures a faculty position during the grant period, the award will be transferred with the recipient to their new institution.
Pre-Application Workshop
Learn more about the Rainin Visionary Scientist Award by attending a pre-application webinar hosted by Health Program Staff.
Tuesday, April 21 | 12-1 PM PDT. Reserve your spot.
The webinar will be recorded and posted to our website for those who are unable to attend live.
We believe that diverse perspectives and fresh thinking are crucial to advancing IBD research. This award aims to encourage outstanding postdoctoral scientists to remain in the field and even kickstart their own labs with innovative ideas.
Laura Wilson, PhD, Director, Health Strategy & Ventures
Funding Criteria
The Foundation values projects that introduce novel ideas, technologies or conceptual approaches to the study of intestinal inflammation and related biology. Competitive proposals will demonstrate:
- A compelling research vision relevant to IBD
- Clear intellectual leadership from the applicant
- Feasible research aims that can be accomplished within two years
- A strong mentorship environment that supports career development
Eligibility
This award is open to US-based postdoctoral researchers working across a broad range of disciplines, including but not limited to mucosal immunology, microbiome science, epithelial biology, genetics and genomics, neuroimmunology, therapeutic approaches to IBD, systems and computational biology, and translational research. Investigators from diverse backgrounds and those who have previously applied for but have not yet secured a faculty position are encouraged to apply.
Application Process
Applications will be accepted online from April 13 through June 1, 2026. Materials will include a lay abstract, a project vision and impact statement, a summary of research accomplishments, a Biosketch, two letters of support, and two representative research manuscripts. Applications will be reviewed by members of the Rainin Foundation’s Scientific Advisory Board and other external scientific experts.
Applicants will be notified of their award status in September. The two-year award start date is October 1, 2026.
Explore frequently asked questions as well as the full Rainin Visionary Scientist Award funding criteria, eligibility requirements and application process. Learn more about our vision for solving IBD, areas of interest and the extraordinary scientists we support on the Rainin IBD website.
About The Kenneth Rainin Foundation
Kenneth Rainin Foundation is a family foundation that collaborates with creative thinkers in the Arts, Education and Health. We believe in taking smart risks to achieve breakthroughs. Our grantmaking supports visionary artists in the Bay Area, creates opportunities for Oakland’s youngest learners and funds researchers on the forefront of scientific discoveries. Since 2009, the Foundation has awarded over $57 million in funding to spur breakthroughs in predicting, diagnosing, treating and eventually curing IBD. Learn more about the Rainin Foundation’s grantmaking.
