NREF launches $2M K12 scholar program to train neurosurgeon-scientists and boost research pipeline

The Neurosurgery Research & Education Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons in Rolling Meadows, Illinois, has announced a $2 million K12 scholar program to train early-career surgeon-scientists and help them develop as independent researchers. The initiative, backed by lead gifts from partner organizations including the American Academy of Neurological Surgery and the Columbia University Department of Neurological Surgery establishes sustainable endowment support to fund a new scholar every other year. The program expands access to elite research training, strengthens the neurosurgery pipeline, and builds on a track record where nearly 90% of NREF scholars go on to secure NIH funding that backs clinical breakthroughs, accelerating patient care innovation.