2025 Future Leaders in Canadian Brain Research Program

Brain Canada is pleased to announce the launch of the 2025 Future Leaders in Canadian Brain Research program, which supports early-career researchers as they pursue bold, new ideas to solve the mysteries of the brain.  

The purpose of the Future Leaders in Canadian Brain Research program is to accelerate novel and transformative research that will fundamentally change our understanding of nervous system function and dysfunction and their impact on health. The ultimate goal is to reduce the social and economic burden of neurological and mental illnesses through prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment. 

Open to early-career investigators within seven* years of starting their first independent research position, the 2025 competition will support up to 20 grants of $100,000 each, over two years.   

*Brain Canada has implemented an extended eligibility window, in line with federal granting agencies, to account for the delays to research caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. For full eligibility details please refer to the Request for Applications.

Evidence clearly shows that increasing equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in research environments enhances excellence, innovation, and creativity. Brain Canada is committed to excellence through equity, and we encourage applicants of diverse backgrounds to apply to our funding opportunities, which will promote the expression of diverse perspectives, approaches, and experiences, including those of underrepresented groups. 

Click here to view the Request for Applications.  
 
Deadline for receipt of Letter of Intent: November 7, 2025 at 5 p.m. ET 

Deadline for receipt of Full Applications: February 20, 2026 at 5 p.m. ET 

For more information, or if you have any questions regarding the application process, please contact Brain Canada at futureleaders@braincanada.ca.