ACR/APLAR Research Exchange Program

The purpose of the ACR/APLAR Research Exchange Program is to promote the international exchange of clinical and research skills, expertise, and knowledge within rheumatology. The program recognizes outstanding rheumatology professional faculty in both laboratory and clinic-based research, provides exposure to the exciting work being done by colleagues overseas, and creates opportunities for collaboration.

Target Audience
Junior academic rheumatologists and rheumatology health professionals interested or engaged in rheumatology research.

Program Schedule

To be announced by APLAR

Travel

Participants will receive complimentary registration to the APLAR Annual Congress and a travel stipend of 2,000 USD.

Travel stipend will be paid to US participants via wire transfer. All pertinent information will be obtained from the program participants prior to the APLAR Congress.

Participant Eligibility

Applicants who do not meet all eligibility criteria will not be considered.

• Be an ACR or ARP member
• Be US citizens or individuals who, at the time of the award, hold a faculty position in a U.S. institution and reside in the U.S., regardless of their immigration status at the time of the application
• Hold a non-tenured faculty appointment or equivalent position (Assistant Professor or below) at an academic center in the US
• ACR applicants: be ABIM or ABP certified or eligible at the time of nomination; ARP applicants: have a doctoral level degree (i.e., PhD, DSc, or equivalent)
• Demonstrate a firm commitment to academic medicine
• Be 45 years of age or under at the time of application submission**

**Exceptions to the age requirement will be considered due to career breaks/changes. Applications should include details/explanation to warrant this exception.

Application Information

During the application process each applicant will be asked to upload the following: Please have documents prepared before the application process is started.

• Current curriculum vitae (NIH format - limited to 5 pages - please include publications)
• Personal statement outlining how participation in the 2025 ACR/APLAR program will benefit your research career; how you can contribute to the program and your commitment to academic and clinical rheumatology
• Letter of recommendation from a senior academician within rheumatology
• Letter of support from Chief of Rheumatology/Division Director

Each US Chief of Rheumatology/Division Director may nominate one qualified adult or pediatric rheumatology health professional junior faculty member from their institution to participate in the ACR/APLAR Exchange program. Nominators must be ACR/ARP members. Applicants are responsible for submitting all required sections and documents prior to the deadline noted on the application.