Pursuit Awards International Competition 2026 for PhD Students and Graduates

Applications are now open for the Pursuit Awards International Competition 2026, the 16th annual edition of a prestigious global research competition that recognizes outstanding PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and recent doctoral graduates whose work has the potential to improve the lives of children with disabilities. Organized by the Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation, the competition celebrates innovative research that advances childhood disability care, rehabilitation, inclusion, technology, health services, and family-centered support.

The Pursuit Awards provide an international platform for emerging researchers to showcase their scientific achievements while competing for financial prizes and professional recognition. Participants submit their research through a compelling video presentation designed to communicate complex scientific ideas to both expert and non-specialist audiences. The competition emphasizes not only research excellence but also the ability to communicate discoveries in an engaging and accessible manner.

Since its establishment, the Pursuit Awards have highlighted groundbreaking work from researchers across the globe whose studies address critical issues affecting children and youth with disabilities. By recognizing early-career researchers, the programme encourages innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the translation of research into practical solutions that improve health outcomes and quality of life.

About the Competition

The Pursuit Awards were created to inspire and recognize the next generation of researchers dedicated to advancing childhood disability research. Unlike conventional academic award programmes that rely solely on published papers, this competition combines scientific excellence with effective science communication.

Applicants prepare a short research presentation explaining their work, its significance, methodology, findings, and potential impact. Entries are reviewed by an expert panel that evaluates scientific quality, originality, innovation, clarity of communication, and relevance to childhood disability research.

The competition is international in scope, allowing participants from universities, hospitals, and research institutions worldwide to compete on an equal platform. Beyond the monetary prizes, finalists receive valuable international exposure and opportunities to connect with researchers working in related fields.

Competition Benefits

Successful participants may receive:

• Cash awards for winning entries.
• International recognition for outstanding research.
• Opportunity to showcase research before a global audience.
• Professional exposure within the childhood disability research community.
• Recognition from a leading pediatric rehabilitation institution.
• Enhanced academic profile and career visibility.
• Networking opportunities with researchers and professionals.
• Experience presenting research in an engaging public format.
• Increased visibility for innovative disability research projects.

Research Areas

Applications are welcomed from researchers working in areas related to childhood disability, including but not limited to:

• Pediatric rehabilitation.
• Childhood disability research.
• Developmental disabilities.
• Cerebral palsy.
• Autism spectrum disorders.
• Rehabilitation engineering.
• Assistive technology.
• Inclusive education.
• Pediatric healthcare.
• Family-centered care.
• Mental health.
• Health services research.
• Community participation.
• Accessibility and inclusion.
• Early intervention.
• Digital health innovations for children with disabilities.

Interdisciplinary research projects that demonstrate practical impact are particularly encouraged.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be a PhD student nearing completion of their doctoral studies, a postdoctoral trainee, or a recent PhD graduate.
• Conduct research that contributes to improving outcomes for children and youth with disabilities.
• Be able to present their research clearly in English.
• Submit all required competition materials before the application deadline.
• Meet all eligibility requirements outlined in the official competition guidelines.

The competition welcomes applicants from universities and research institutions around the world, making it accessible to emerging researchers regardless of nationality.

Required Application Materials

Applicants should prepare:

• Completed online application form.
• Research presentation video prepared according to competition guidelines.
• Brief research summary or abstract.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or résumé.
• Academic or institutional information.
• Any additional supporting materials requested by the organizers.

Applicants should carefully review the official submission instructions to ensure their video meets the required technical specifications.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

• Scientific excellence.
• Originality and innovation.
• Potential impact on childhood disability research.
• Quality of the research methodology.
• Clarity and effectiveness of the research presentation.
• Ability to communicate research to diverse audiences.
• Overall contribution to improving the lives of children and youth with disabilities.

How to Apply

To apply for the Pursuit Awards International Competition 2026:

1. Review the official competition guidelines and eligibility requirements.
2. Prepare a concise and engaging research presentation video that highlights your research question, methods, findings, and impact.
3. Complete the online application form.
4. Upload all required documents and supporting materials.
5. Carefully review your submission before finalizing your application.
6. Submit your application before September 11, 2026.