Fuad El-Hibri Travel Awards

Fuad El-Hibri Travel Awards

by | Aug 16, 2024 | Information, Grants, Scholarships

Applications are now open.

Apply Now

The Fuad El-Hibri Travel Awards Program

Through the generosity of the El-Hibri family, we are pleased to offer the 2024 Fuad El-Hibri Travel Awards. These Awards have been provided in loving memory of an exceptional man who invested the fullness of his labor in keeping humanity safe and healthy. It carries forth his vision for these talented students – that they have every opportunity to conduct novel research that will improve our understanding of disease in order to create treatments and cures.

The Fuad El-Hibri Travel Awards enable students in NIH Oxford-Cambridge Scholars Program to travel to conferences and workshops or related programs to enable them to find new opportunities for advancing their careers as they complete their training to become tomorrow’s biomedical research leaders.   

Award Guidelines 

– Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis at the end of each calendar month.

– Travel should encompass a maximum of 5 days/4 nights.

– Awards will range from $500 to $2,500 per Scholar.

Note: You must secure and submit all accompanying receipts within 30 days of travel to be reimbursed.

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Personal Information

Please provide your contact details and information for reimbursement.
Name
Mailing Address

Travel Details

What is the nature of your request?
NIH Mentor
UK Mentor
If you are presenting your research, what will be the format?
Click or drag files to this area to upload. You can upload up to 10 files.
You may include a cover letter, abstract, proposal, award letter, letter of support, or any other documentation you think will help the Review Committee in evaluating your proposal

Travel Details

Please provided the estimated costs associated with expenses below.
Travel by airplane, train, bus, or car. If you were provided with a free ticket or you are riding free as a result of frequent flyer miles, rewards, or similar programs you cannot submit this expense for reimbursement. Travel must be economy class unless a request for an exception is made and granted. Include only fares for these and other types of transportation that take you between the airport, station, your place of lodging, and the location(s) of the event .

Similar ordinary and necessary expenses related to your travel.  Please reach out for any qualifications.
The total requested support
The total amount that you or an outside entity will be paying for the travel in excess of what is provided by the award
Lodging for the duration of your travel.
Meals include amounts spent for food, non-alcoholic beverages, taxes, and tips (up to 20%). N.B. Tipping is not customary in many countries outside the United States of America.
If you have a disability or other specific requirements related to your travel and accommodations, we would be happy to help you with these details.  Please do not hesitate to reach out to us for assistance.
What is your preferred payment method?

Documentation and Compliance

Do you understand that you will be required to provide adequate documentation as required for reimbursement (e.g., itemized receipts)?
Do you acknowledge the deadline for submitting reimbursement requests and accompanying receipts (within 30 days of travel)?
Do you understand the conditions under which reimbursement may be denied (e.g., failure to conduct the proposed travel, withdrawal from the program)?
Do you understand that you are expected to obtain approval for your travel from the appropriate individuals and denial to travel will result in the forfeit of any expenses for reimbursement?

Additional Information

Code of Conduct Acknowlegement

Code of Conduct for IBRA-Sponsored Activities



The International Biomedical Research Alliance (“IBRA/Alliance”) is committed to creating an inclusive and respectful environment where everyone feels valued and safe. This Code of Conduct outlines the expected behavior and standards for each participant in IBRA-sponsored activities (“Participant”) to ensure they can help represent the organization positively and uphold its values and reputation in all interactions and engagements.


IBRA’s programs, events, and initiatives are designed to encourage individual growth, build social and professional networking relationships, and enrich the learning experience of participants to help further their successful development as aspiring biomedical research leaders. Connections made during IBRA-sponsored activities have led directly to opportunities for jobs, investments in entrepreneurial activities, donations to support student, alumni, and mentor research projects and programs, and lasting career mentorship relationships.


Given the profound impact of IBRA activities on the Participant and our organization’s efforts to promote their success, this Code of Conduct was created to provide a framework for clarifying and communicating the expected responsibilities of each Participant to help project a positive representation of themselves, their universities, organizations, and/or scholarship programs as well as IBRA.


Participants are encouraged to consider that their behavior, appearance, and manner of conduct may be perceived by host organizations, guests, distinguished scientists and leaders, and members of the general public as a reflection of:



  • How seriously and respectfully the Participant consider the time, effort, and work of the host organization, speaker, etc.

    • How seriously and respectfully the Participant considers their home organization/institution, and/or IBRA
  • How seriously and respectfully the Participant considers their own time, effort, work, and their affiliates

  • How effective the Participant will be in a work environment or collaborative endeavor

  • How the Participant has chosen to communicate their ethical standards and sense of integrity and gratitude for IBRA and any other sponsoring organization


    • Professionalism is paramount in all interactions and activities within IBRA. Participants are expected to conduct themselves professionally at all times, per ethical principles and values, demonstrating honesty, transparency, and accountability in all dealings. This includes:


    Attire and Personal Hygiene


    Business professional attire is encouraged for most events and activities, unless otherwise specified and in all settings attire with offensive language or images should be avoided. Personal hygiene (clean teeth, body, hair, nails, and clothing) is also critical for creating a comfortable environment for all Participants. Please ensure that you maintain good hygiene practices and allow ample time for preparation before attending events. If a Participant needs more clarification or has a significant financial challenge in complying, please reach out to discuss as the goal is to help in the full participation of our activities.

    Compliance with Health and Safety Measures


    The health and safety of each Participant are of utmost importance to IBRA. Participants should prioritize the safety and well-being of all participants, including themselves. Those experiencing symptoms of a communicable disease, such as COVID-19, influenza, norovirus, etc., are asked to refrain from attending in-person events or activities until they have fully recovered or completed the recommended isolation period based on the policies of your home or host organization. Additionally, Participants are expected to comply with masking mandates and recommendations based on the local jurisdiction and/or venue policies which may include wearing masks in indoor settings or in crowded outdoor spaces, as required by law or venue regulations. These measures are essential for mitigating the spread of illness and ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all Participants. Concerns or incidents should be promptly reported to designated organizers or staff members to assist with intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of each Participant.


    Respectful Communication and Engagement


    Participants should treat other Participants, organizers, and staff with respect, kindness, and consideration, regardless of their background, identity, opinions, or abilities, including any disabilities. Participants should listen actively and engage in constructive, respectful, and courteous communication, with all Participants, organizers, and staff, whether in person, online, or via other channels.


    Participants should avoid language or behavior that may be considered offensive, discriminatory, or harassing. Discrimination in any form based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, political beliefs, or socioeconomic background is not tolerated at any event or activity conducted or funded by IBRA and can be cause for not only removal or exclusion from IBRA-sponsored activities, but also may be ground for additional repercussions by the host and/or home organization of the participant as required by local, regional, and/or national law as well as the policies and regulations of IBRA and/or the home organization. Some examples of undesirable or offensive behaviors (whether in person, online, or on social media):


  • Sexual harassment or unwelcomed sexual behaviors

  • Verbally abusive behaviors (threats, derogatory remarks, bullying, etc.)

  • Direct or implied physical threats or violence


    • Participants are asked to refrain from engaging in physically confrontational or other disruptive behavior. Verbal conflicts or disagreements that arise should be handled professionally and constructively, seeking resolution through open dialogue, mediation, or other appropriate means, typically delayed until after the IBRA-sponsored activity has concluded.


    Confidentiality


    Participants should respect the confidentiality of sensitive information and privacy, both in-person and online. This includes, but is not limited to proprietary information, personal data, and discussions held in confidence, and refrain from disclosing confidential information without proper authorization. Some host organizations may request that a non-disclosure or confidentiality agreement be signed as a condition of participation in the IBRA-sponsored activity and a failure to sign the agreement may result in exclusion from participation of a portion or all of the activity.


    Timeliness and Reliability


    Participants should arrive punctually for scheduled events and activities, and fulfill commitments promptly. If unable to attend or fulfill obligations, communicate promptly and respectfully with relevant parties. If a Participant is unable to attend an event after registration, they must inform the organizer at least 48 hours before the event. A failure to provide adequate notice may be grounds for a request for compensation for Participant-related costs incurred. Health and family emergencies and illnesses may reasonably occur within the 48 hours before the event and thus absences and tardiness violations will be considered on a case-by-case basis. When an IBRA-sponsored activity includes pre-arranged travel if a Participant fails to arrive at the scheduled time to utilize the transportation provided, they will be expected to make alternative transport arrangements at their own expense. Routinely tardiness or absences may bar participation in future IBRA-sponsored events.


    Alcohol and other Recreational Drugs


    Participants should never engage in IBRA-sponsored activities under the influence of alcohol or other recreational drugs such that the Participant is unable to comport themselves professionally as described above. A failure to comport oneself professionally due to the influence of drugs is grounds for removal from participation in the activity. Unless explicitly stated in event communications, please do not bring your own alcohol.


    Participants should also abide by the local, regional, and national laws regarding the age and type of alcohol and recreational drugs as well as the rules, guidelines, and other regulations for their host and home organization(s). In general, IBRA follows the policies for employees of the U.S. National Institutes of Health which notably does not permit the use of marijuana, regardless of local jurisdiction.


    Some IBRA-sponsored activities feature dining experiences that may include alcohol, typically beer, wine, and related low-alcohol-by-volume beverages as part of pre-set menus. Participants are asked to avoid ordering hard alcohol and alcohol-containing cocktails unless explicitly permitted by an IBRA employee or Board Member. Participants should use their judgment to drink responsibly, however, guidance may be provided by IBRA or host organization staff as well as other Participants as to the amount and frequency of consumption to ensure a safe environment for all Participants. When in doubt, Participants are encouraged to refrain entirely from the consumption of alcohol and participants will never be required to consume alcohol as a condition of participation in an IBRA-sponsored activity.


    Lodging


    For IBRA-sponsored activities that involve an overnight stay, lodging may be provided with typically two participants sharing one room, e.g. double room accommodations. Participants are asked to provide any special needs (including dietary) well in advance of the activity. If the safety of any participant is impacted by the lodging provided, Participants should notify the appropriate activity organizer who can assist in resolving the issue. Should a participant wish to remain in the location where an activity is taking place to visit family, colleagues, etc. IBRA is not able or willing to provide additional lodging outside of what is required for participation in IBRA-sponsored activities.


    Consequences of Violations


    Violation of this Code of Conduct may result in consequences, including but not limited to verbal warnings, expulsion from the event or activity, and prohibition from future participation. Organizers reserve the right to take appropriate action based on the severity and nature of the violation.


    Acknowledgement


    By participating in IBRA-sponsored events and activities, each Participant acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agree to abide by this Code of Conduct.


    Questions, concerns, and feedback should be sent to: info@biomedalliance.org.

    Policy
    The International Biomedical Research Alliance (IBRA) utilizes an accountable plan that follows the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regulations in which reimbursement is not counted as income and therefore not subject to withholding taxes, 1099, or W-2 reporting. 

    Therefore the following conditions must be met to receive reimbursement for travel:
    - Transportation: Reimbursement for mileage driven in personal vehicles will be based on the current IRS mileage rate. Public transportation, taxis, and rideshare services are reimbursable with appropriate receipts.
    - Lodging: Hotel stays should be booked at standard business rates. Luxury accommodations will not be reimbursed unless pre-approved.
    - Meals: Meal expenses will be reimbursed up to the daily per diem limit of $100. Receipts are required. Alcoholic beverages are not reimbursed unless accompanied by food in the course of a business meal

    Reimbursement Procedures
    - Submission: Employees must submit expense reports within 30 days of incurring the expense via Expensify.
    - Documentation: Attach all receipts or proof of purchase to the expense report. For expenses without receipts, provide a detailed explanation and a signed affidavit.
    - Approval: The expense report must be reviewed and approved by the employee’s direct supervisor or designated approver before processing.
    - Payment: Reimbursements will be processed within 30 business days of approval.

    Your information will be used to provide you with the appropriate documentation.
    Advanced Training Grants

    Advanced Training Grants

    by | Aug 15, 2024 | Grants, Information, Scholarships

    Applications are currently closed.

    Please look for an announcement in Fall 2024.

    Advanced Training Grants Program

    The Advanced Training Grants Program provides financial support for academic-related travel for the purpose of enhancing training beyond the boundaries of the standard research support provided by their research laboratories.

    Awardees benefit from expanded exposure to evolving research, specialized training, learning new techniques, and professional development training to broaden their scientific experience.

    Eligible activities include travel to advanced skills workshops, travel and/or housing support to establishing research collaborations at US universities, or non-research related leadership and entrepreneurial training programs.

    Awards are considered on a case-by-case basis and typically range from $250-$2,500. The funding will be determined based on the submission of the required paperwork and interview.

    Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so applications should allow at least three weeks for your application to be reviewed and a decision to be rendered.

    Submission at least 1-3 months in advance is recommended to maximize the possibility of identifying additional funding if needed. If you have any questions, please contact info@biomedalliance.org.

    Mentor Match Travel Grants

    Mentor Match Travel Grants

    by | Aug 15, 2024 | Grants, Information, Scholarships

    Applications are currently closed.

    Please look for an announcement in Fall 2024.

    Mentor Match Program

    The selection of a committed and collaborative mentor for students pursuing their Ph.D. in biomedical research is integral to their success.

    For programs without laboratory rotations or coursework, such as the NIH Oxford-Cambridge Scholars Program, identifying a good fit between a student’s interests, talents, and training needs requires additional preparatory work compared to traditional PhD programs.

    Unfortunately, travelling to the UK to identify mentors can be cost prohibitive for many students, so each year IBRA raises funds to provide Mentor Match Travel Awards for the distinct purpose of reimbursing students admitted to elite international biomedical training programs for expenses incurred while identifying their mentor abroad.

    Award Guidelines 

    – Applications will be reviewed and awarded on a rolling basis, typically within 7 business days from submission. Awards are limited in number so applying early is encouraged.

    – Travel should encompass a maximum of 7 days/6 nights.

    – The maximum IBRA Mentor Match Travel Award available is $1,000 per student.

    Policy

    The International Biomedical Research Alliance (IBRA) utilizes an accountable plan that follows the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regulations in which reimbursement is not counted as income and therefore not subject to withholding taxes, 1099, or W-2 reporting. 

    Therefore, the following conditions must be met to receive reimbursement for the Mentor Match travel:

    –       Travel reimbursement must be for mentor matching for students who have accepted their offer of admission to a qualified biomedical training program.

    –       Travel reimbursement is not considered a form of compensation for work performed.

    –       Travel reimbursement expenses include only transportation, lodging, and meals.

    –       Travel reimbursement must be accurately reported and include supporting documentation as outlined in this policy and procedure.

    –        Upon completion of their travel, students are required to file one completed request for reimbursement along with PDF copies of all related itemized receipts.  NO REIMBURSEMENT WILL BE MADE WITHOUT A RECEIPT.

    –       Cancellations: If the student made travel arrangements that are later canceled due to a travel ban issued by a recognized United States government agency, they will be reimbursed for any expenses incurred before the travel ban. Should a medical emergency arise that prevents travel, documentation of the same must be submitted for reimbursement to be considered. Note: failure to confirm a meeting date/time with a potential mentor, change in personal plans, and so on will not be considered for reimbursement.  In all of these cases, the awardee is responsible for pursuing refunds or preventing potential charges.

    Qualifying Expenses

    Transportation

    Travel by airplane, train, bus, or car between your home and the mentor’s University.  If you were provided with a free ticket or you are riding free as a result of frequent flyer miles, rewards, or similar programs you cannot submit this expense for reimbursement. Travel must be economy class unless a request for an exception is made and granted.

    Taxi, bus, car service

    Fares for these and other types of transportation that take you between the airport, station, your place of lodging, or the university where your mentor match meetings will occur.

    Baggage 

    Checked baggage fee for one checked bag, if applicable.

    Lodging and meals

    Your lodging and meals for the duration of your travel. Meals include amounts spent for food, non-alcoholic beverages, taxes, and tips (up to 20%). N.B. Tipping is not customary in many countries outside the United States of America.

    Colleges at each university may offer short-term accommodations based upon availability, so we recommend contacting the accommodation staff at a college you may be considering.

    Other

    Other similar ordinary and necessary expenses related to your Mentor Match travel.  Please reach out for any qualifications.

    If you have a disability or have specific requirements related to your travel and accommodations, we would be happy to help you with these details.  Please do not hesitate to reach out to us for assistance.

    Note: You must secure and submit all accompanying receipts within 30 days of travel to be reimbursed.

     

    An Interview With Yuk Ming Dennis Lo

    An Interview With Yuk Ming Dennis Lo

    by | Jun 18, 2024 | Lasker, Past Events

    Yuk Ming Dennis Lo was the featured speaker at the Spring 2024 Lasker Lessons in Leadership event. Lo discussed his scientific training in the UK, establishing a lab in Hong Kong, and crossing the boundaries between academia and industry. He was joined by Yasemin Cole, Kritika Singh, and Henry Taylor, students in the NIH Oxford-Cambridge Scholars program.

     

    Lo is the recipient of the 2022 Lasker~DeBakey Clinical Medical Research Award for the discovery of fetal DNA in maternal blood, which led to noninvasive prenatal testing for Down syndrome.

     

    The Lessons in Leadership lectures are developed in collaboration with the Lasker Foundation and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Oxford-Cambridge Scholars Program.
    LASKER LESSONS IN LEADERSHIP MAIN PAGE