AACOM Research Grants
"These research grants are a testament to AACOM's commitment to advancing osteopathic medical education and addressing the evolving needs of our healthcare system. I am confident that the insights gained from these studies will have a lasting impact on the quality and inclusivity of osteopathic medical education."
AACOM President and CEO Robert A. Cain, DO
Annual Research Grant Program
Grants offered for both medical education research and institutional research
Institutional research is a broad category of work done at colleges (and across colleges within a profession) to inform decision-making and planning. While collaborative, multi-institution research studies are desirable, the grant could support a pilot study or serve as the basis for seeking matching funds at individual institutions.
Proposals about technology or artificial intelligence (AI) are of importance this year. Additionally, topics related to workforce issues—such as the implications of the expansion of osteopathic medical colleges, branch campuses, additional teaching sites, and class sizes—are of continued interest.
The application cycle is now open and closes January 25, 2026.
Compassionate Community Grant
A unique, one-time opportunity for the U.S. colleges of osteopathic medicine
This special opportunity offered small grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 to support innovative, compassion-driven projects across the osteopathic medical education community. This grant included programs for cultivating compassion and belonging; recognizing and celebrating compassionate culture; advancing compassion through community-based education and/or service learning; and sustaining compassion through educational transitions.
Food As Medicine Grant
A special, one-time grant opportunity for U.S. colleges of osteopathic medicine
This exclusive funding initiative was designed to advance the integration of "Food As Medicine" into osteopathic medical education (OME), empowering future physicians with the knowledge and skills to utilize nutrition in the prevention and management of chronic diseases. This valuable opportunity contributed to the future of healthcare by advancing the principles of Food As Medicine in OME.