The Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital is now accepting applications for the 15th annual Pursuit Award, an international competition that honors PhD students and recent graduates for their outstanding research contributions in the field of childhood disability.

This prestigious award recognizes innovative work that advances personalized care and quality of life for individuals with childhood-onset disabilities, developmental differences, and acquired injuries. Past recipients have explored impactful topics such as physical activity for neurodivergent youth and decision-making tools for families of children with birth injuries.

Winners will be announced during the Bloorview Research Institute (BRI) Symposium on November 25–26, 2025. The top three finalists will receive cash prizes: CAD 3,000 for first place, CAD 2,000 for second place, and CAD 1,000 for third place—thanks to generous support from The Ward Family Foundation and Holland Bloorview donors.

Key Details and Dates

• Application Deadline: August 29, 2025, 5:00 p.m. EST
• Result Announcement Dates: November 25–26, 2025
• BRI Research Symposium: November 25–26, 2025
• Funding Type: Award
• Organizer: Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital – Bloorview Research Institute
• Eligible Countries: All countries
• Eligible Gender: Male/Female
• Target Group: PhD students, postdoctoral trainees, and recent PhD graduates
• Focus Areas: Childhood disability, pediatric rehabilitation, neurodevelopment, knowledge translation
• Number of Opportunities: 3 awards
• Program Language: English
• Host Country: Canada (virtual)

Award Details

The top 3 candidates selected by a panel of scientists, staff, and family leaders will be announced during the BRI Symposium, November 25–26, 2025, as follows:

• 1st Place Winner: CAD 3,000
• 2nd Place Winner: CAD 2,000
• 3rd Place Winner: CAD 1,000

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• The application is open to all nationalities who are:
  • Be PhD students (within 6 months of defense), OR
  • Be postdoctoral trainees (within 1 year of PhD), OR
  • Be recent PhD graduates (within 1 year of completion)
• Have conducted research focused on childhood disability
• Be available to record and submit a presentation for the BRI Symposium

Selection Process and Criteria

Finalists will be selected by a panel of scientists, professionals, and family leaders based on:

• Academic Excellence: Education background, awards, distinctions
• Research Potential: Innovation, critical thinking, and practical impact
• Knowledge Translation: Engagement with partners and dissemination efforts
• Productivity: Quality and quantity of publications and conference presentations

Finalists must submit a pre-recorded presentation for the BRI Symposium and are expected to be available for the event on November 25–26, 2025.

How to Apply?

• Deadline: August 29, 2025, by 5:00 p.m. EST
• Submission: Email one PDF file containing the complete application to [email protected]
• Email Subject Line:
  • For applications: 2025 Pursuit Award Application – [Your Full Name]
  • For inquiries: 2025 Pursuit Award Query – [Your Full Name]
• Download Application Form: Download the application form

For further details and information, please visit the official Holland Bloorview website.

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