The purpose of the Whitaker International Enhancement Fund is to help provide grantees with the ability to enhance their professional presence and competence in the field of BME by:

  • Visiting BME-related labs and facilities
  • Attending BME-related conferences, or
  • Participating in BME-related training programs
  • Participating in the training or advising of next-generation biomedical engineers

 
Through these activities, grantees will advance both their profession and the field of BME.


The funding will be available to current grantees at the end of their grant cycles.

Application Requirements:

  • 1 page proposal from the grantee outlining their travel plans and explaining how the additional funding will enhance their grant experience and help them achieve their future goals as related to the field of BME.The proposal should include the duration of the travel and the specific labs/conferences/training programs that the grantee will be visiting.
  • Invitation letter from labs/conference registration and program that the grantee is proposing to attend.  For example, if a grantee wants to use funding to participate at a BMES meeting, s/he must show that his/her abstract was selected.
  • Itemized Budget:  Submit original receipts for reimbursement of up to $4,000.
  • If you are planning to use the travel fund while on your Whitaker grant, you will need to submit a letter from your host institution advisor approving your travel.

Funding:
There will be a $4,000 cap on the enhancement fund, with actual amounts determined after reviewing individual proposals.

Restrictions:
Grantees can use funding, and start traveling, up to 6 months after the completion of their Whitaker grant.  Note: grantees can apply for funding anytime during their grant.

Administration:
Grantees will submit their proposals to the IIE Whitaker Program Manager, Sabeen Altaf, who will review and approve routine proposals. Questionable proposal will be forwarded to the Whitaker Steering Committee for approval.

Program Expectations:
Whitaker grantees will be expected to promote the Whitaker Program and serve as program ambassadors while on their travel grants.