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

Javier A. Rodriguez-Casariego

Host: Dr. Eve Marder

Institution: Florida International University

Research area: Neural epigenetic mechanisms for inherited responses to environmental factors

Scholarship term: 2025-2027

Javier A. Rodriguez-Casariego

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: Dr. Christopher Walsh

Institution: Boston Children's Hospital

Research area: Genetic basis of human brain evolution

Scholarship term: 2026-2027

Lucía Franchini

Marisa Zallocchi

Host: Dr. Laura Hansen

Institution: Creighton University

Research area: Molecular basis of Usher syndrome

Scholarship term: 2026-2027

Marisa Zallocchi

Loyal A. Goff

Host: Dr. Richard Huganir

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