Each year, the American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF) recognizes outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to occupational therapy research. These prestigious awards celebrate research excellence across various career stages and areas of focus.

Do you know a deserving occupational therapist?

The nomination period for the 2025 AOTF Research Awards is open. This is your chance to nominate an exceptional occupational therapist who is advancing knowledge and improving practice through research endeavors.

Here's a breakdown of the AOTF Research Awards:

Early-Career Research Excellence Award (Established 2019): Honors and supports promising investigators making significant contributions to the field. Submission deadline: September 6, 2024.

Mid-Career Research Excellence Award (Established 2018): Recognizes established researchers who have made substantial advancements in occupational therapy knowledge. Submission Deadline: September 6, 2024.

Virginia Scardina Award of Excellence (Established 2004): Honors occupational therapy clinicians demonstrating exceptional commitment and innovation in sensory integration and brain-behavior relationships. Submission deadline: September 6, 2024

A. Jean Ayres Award (Established 1998): Recognizes occupational therapy clinicians, educators, and researchers dedicated to applying, disseminating, developing, or testing theory in occupational therapy. Submission deadline: September 6, 2024.