The International Society of Molecular Plant-Microbe Interactions (IS-MPMI) is a global organization that recognizes the value of caregivers and their role in the scientific community. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive support, including financial assistance, for caregivers to ensure their attendance at our biannual meetings. These meetings offer a unique opportunity for attendees to learn about the latest research, network with fellow professionals, and collaborate on innovative ideas for the future of plant-microbe interactions. We believe that by investing in caregivers, we are investing in the future of scientific progress and discovery. To that end, we established the "Caregiver Support Fund." For this support, a caregiver is defined as an IS-MPMI member who provides primary care for an individual unable to care for themselves (e.g., a young or disabled child, a sick, injured, or elderly partner, spouse, or relative). Up to four stipends of US $500 are available for 2023.
Approved Fund Usage
The Caregiver Support Fund may be used to cover any caregiving costs that the applicant would not normally incur during their workdays. This includes expenses such as the cost of traveling with a dependent or caregiver (airfare, hotel, meals), the cost of a caregiver's travel to the conference or home location, after-hours at-home care, or the cost of breast milk transport services, as well as any additional arrangements that could be justified. However, this funding cannot be applied to any ongoing care expenses of a dependent that an attendee would normally incur, nor can it cover any of the meeting attendee's personal expenses.
Application Review
IS-MPMI will establish a review committee consisting of three IS-MPMI volunteers. This committee will be responsible for reviewing the applications and submitting their recommendations to the Board of Directors for approval. Application priority will be given to IS-MPMI members who are presenting an oral or poster presentation. Funds will be distributed to the recipients during the 2023 IS-MPMI Congress in Providence, Rhode Island, U.S.A.
Application
The application, saved into one PDF file, must consist of a 400 to 600-word statement explaining (i) how attending the meeting will benefit the applicant's professional development, and (ii) how the funds will be spent. Those selected to receive funding will be notified in early June 2023.
Submission Deadline
Submissions are now closed.
