Master’s Personnel Awards for Indigenous Scholars in Canada

The 2027 Master’s Personnel Awards for Indigenous Scholars (ISA-MSc) provide funding for Indigenous students in Canada pursuing master’s degrees in heart and/or brain research. Supported by the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada and Brain Canada Foundation, the awards aim to increase Indigenous representation in these vital fields. The application deadline is 28 January 2027. Opportunity at a Glance

- Provider: Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada and Brain Canada Foundation

- Opportunity Type: Master’s Personnel Awards

- Funding Amount: Up to $54,000 CAD over two years

- Eligible Applicants: Indigenous students (First Nations, Inuit, Métis) in Canada

- Eligible Countries: Canada

- Application Deadline: 28 January 2027, 3:00 PM ET

- Award Start Date: 1 September 2027

About the Opportunity

The ISA-MSc awards support Indigenous scholars committed to heart and/or brain health research. This initiative, co-created with Indigenous leaders, addresses systemic barriers in academia and aims to enhance the number of Indigenous researchers in Canada. Research areas include prevention, treatment, and recovery related to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health issues. Funding and Benefits

- Stipend: Up to $54,000 CAD ($27,000 per year for two years)

- Purpose: Salary support for recipients to focus on research and training

- Restrictions: Funds must not be used for direct or indirect research costs

Who Is Eligible? - Self-identify as Indigenous (First Nations, Inuit, Métis) - Must be Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or Protected Persons - Enrolled or applied for full-time master’s programs at eligible Canadian institutions - Must have a research supervisor at the host institution - Cannot have more than two years in their master’s program by the application deadline - Must not receive funding from the tobacco industry Eligible Activities or Priority Areas - Research addressing heart and brain health, including neurological conditions - Focus on cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health - Include prevention, treatment, and recovery research Why This Opportunity Matters This award helps Indigenous scholars address critical health issues affecting their communities, promoting diversity in research and academia. It provides necessary financial support to focus on research and professional development. How to Apply

- Registration: Complete prior to the application submission.

- Prepare Application: Include self-identification confirmation, applicant profile, and research details.

- Submit Application: By 28 January 2027, 3:00 PM ET.

- Provide Letters of Reference: By the same deadline.

- Await Notification: Results announced in July 2027.

For detailed instructions, refer to the official application guidelines. Application Tips or Common Mistakes - Ensure all documents meet the submission checklist criteria. - Confirm self-identification details accurately. - Avoid missing the registration and application deadlines. Frequently Asked Questions Who can apply for the ISA-MSc award? Indigenous students in Canada pursuing or planning to pursue a master’s degree in heart and/or brain research. What is the total funding available? Up to $54,000 CAD, distributed over two years. What is the application deadline?

28 January 2027, 3: 00 PM ET.

Can the award be used for research costs? No, the stipend is strictly for salary support. How will I know if I received the award? Applicants will be notified of the results in July 2027. Next Steps Eligible applicants should thoroughly review the official guidelines and ensure all application components are prepared and submitted by the deadline. For more information, visit the Heart & Stroke Foundation and Brain Canada Foundation websites.