2026 Research Grants – OPEN

NAAF Research Grants support scientists and clinicians pursuing promising research ideas and innovative projects that will improve understanding of the disease and advance the development or discovery of safe and effective treatments, and potentially a cure for alopecia areata. Applications related to all aspects of alopecia areata are strongly encouraged, including basic science, translational research, technology, epidemiology, health services, and clinical research.  

 NAAF is committed to supporting seasoned experts in alopecia areata research and treatment, as well as young scientists and clinicians building careers to become high-caliber, independent researchers with an enduring focus on research relevant to alopecia areata. Applications undergo a rigorous scientific review by a panel of experts and are then selected for funding based on NAAF priorities.

Through the Research Grants program, NAAF encourages investigations that contribute new information to the understanding of alopecia areata (AA). Investigators with innovative research ideas are encouraged to apply.  Priority consideration will be given to proposals that address one or more of the following areas of interest.  

• Basic science research to advance understanding of the pathophysiology of AA, including investigations of pathways/ targets that could lead to new therapies, and development/ characterization of new animal models 
• Development of patient-reported outcome measures specific to AA 
• Secondary analysis of NIH’s All of Us data set 
• Comorbid diseases: Impact and treatment considerations/ strategies 
• Investigations to improve understanding of disease triggers 
• Advances in treatment or tools for treatment decision-making by patients and families 
• Elucidation of the burden of alopecia areata on patients and families, including the psychosocial impact 

Awards  

Multiple awards are available for the 2026 funding cycle. NAAF Research Grants are 1-year, non-renewable awards with an expected start date of 1/15/27.  Applicants may request up to $75,000 (direct costs only).  Indirect costs are not allowed on NAAF research grant awards. 

Applications may also be considered for the Pediatric Alopecia Areata Challenge Grant if the proposed project aligns with that program. 

Eligibility  

Applicants must hold the degree of MD, DO, and/or PhD (or equivalent) and be eligible to apply for grants under the guidelines of their host institution. Investigators and institutions throughout the world are welcome to apply. Evidence of IRB or IACUC (or equivalent) approval is required for all studies when relevant. Recipients of past or current NAAF grants are eligible to apply. 

How to apply
NEW this year: Applications will be submitted via Proposal Central. Application link will be available soon.

Important Dates
Application deadline:  11:59 PM PT, Thursday, September 17, 2026
Awards announcement:  Anticipated on or before December 31, 2026
Earliest start date:  January 15, 2027

Questions?? Email Lisa Anderson, PhD, Vice President of Research and Education, for additional information or with any questions on the NAAF Research Grant application or review process. 

Download the RFP