Kavli Scholars

The Kavli Scholars program supports exceptional scientists whose research has been disrupted by unexpected challenges, by providing an opportunity to continue their work in the fields of astrophysics, nanoscience, neuroscience, or theoretical physics.
Nominations are invited by Kavli-affiliated individuals, such as members of Kavli Institutes, Kavli Prize laureates, or currently-funded grant recipients. Selected Kavli Scholars receive funding for up to two years. Learn more about the program and nomination process through our grant application portal.

"Scholars transitioning to a new work environment can have a life-changing impact. Fortunately, we can help this talent continue their important research." -Cynthia Friend, President and CEO of The Kavli Foundation

Rafael E. Perez

Host: Dr. Marina Picciotto

Institution: Kavli Institute for Neuroscience, Yale University

Research area: Brain circuit dysfunction underlying opioid resistance after spinal cord injury

Scholarship term: 2026-2027

Lucía Franchini

Host: Christopher Walsh

Institution: Boston Children's Hospital

Research area: Human brain evolution

Scholarship term: 2026-2027

Lucía Franchini

Loyal A. Goff

Host: Dr. Dwight Bergles

Institution: Kavli Neurodiscovery Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

Research area: Neurogenesis, cell fate specification, and spatial transcriptomics in cephalopods

Scholarship term: 2026-2028

Loyal A. Goff

Kavli Scholars Alumni