Morris Animal Foundation Opens 2025 Call for Equid Health Research Proposals

Sponsor

Morris Animal Foundation

For More Information

Full eligibility, program details and templates are available on the Foundation’s Grants page.  

Description

Morris Animal Foundation has issued a call for research proposals to improve the health and welfare of domesticated horses, ponies, donkeys and mules. This opportunity includes four award categories — Established Investigator, First Award, Pilot Study and Fellowship Training — each designed to support impactful, humane, and scientifically robust equid health research.  

AWARD CATEGORIES  

• Established Investigator Awards
  • Designed for experienced researchers with a strong publication history in equine health science. Projects may last up to 36 months.  
  • No budget cap (average funding ~$100,000); proposals must include robust methodology and demonstrate clear benefits to equid health.  
• First Award Grants  
  • Supports early-career researchers (PhD, DVM, or equivalent) establishing independent programs in veterinary or animal science.  
  • Up to $120,000 over 24 months; not eligible for residents. Postdocs must be moving into secured roles.  
• Pilot Study Awards  
  • Funds 12-month exploratory research or proof-of-concept studies in horse, donkey, mule, or pony health.  
  • Budget capped at $20,000; preliminary data is optional but strengthens competitiveness.  
• Fellowship Training Grants  
  • For postdoctoral researchers or advanced PhD candidates focused on equid health and welfare.  
  • Offers up to $145,000 over 24 months; requires a formal training plan and institutional support.  

Eligibility

See proposal guidelines for specific eligibility as each program has slightly different eligibility requirements: 

• Fellowship Training: 
  • Proposal Guidelines
  • Proposal Template
  • Rubric
• Established Investigator, First Award, Pilot Study: 
  • Proposal Guidelines
  • Proposal Template
  • Rubric

Indirect Costs

8%