Medical Research
We advance scientific discovery and human health by investing in Boston’s most promising early-career scientists and leading institutions as they work at the forefront of biomedical innovation and scientific excellence.
Grants in this area are by invitation only.
Early-Career Awards
Since 1992, we have awarded a total of $54.2 million to 229 biomedical investigators.
These awards are particularly important as government-funded support for early-career investigators continues to decline.
Excellence Awards
The Smith Family Awards Program for Excellence in Biomedical Research supports promising pre-tenure researchers as they establish their first independent lab.
- The Excellence Awards fund up to five scientists each year ($400,000 per grantee, disbursed over three years)
- Learn more about how to apply
- See all the Excellence Award Grantees (PDF)
Odyssey Awards
The Smith Family Foundation Odyssey Award program supports highly innovative pre-tenure researchers to pursue unorthodox inquiries.
- The Odyssey Awards fund up to five scientists each year ($400,000 per grantee, disbursed over two years)
- Learn more about how to apply
- See all the Odyssey Award Grantees (PDF)
