The G. Harold and Leila Y. Mathers Foundation

The mission of The G. Harold and Leila Y. Mathers Foundation is to advance knowledge in the life sciences by sponsoring scientific research that will benefit mankind. Basic scientific research with potential translational application is central to this goal and fundamental to their operating principles.

Program Funding Priorities

The Mathers Foundation welcomes research in immunology, structural biology, cancer biology, microbiome, genetics, genomics, structural biology, cellular physiology, neuroscience, and microbiology & infectious diseases. Plant biology and oceanography-related research, space exploration, global warming, Covid-19, medical imaging technology, electrical engineering technology development, clinical trials, and drug discovery projects are not considered. Declined LOIs or proposals should not be resubmitted, and feedback will not be provided.

Award Information

The total funding for this award is $600,000-$700,000 over three years, including 10% indirect costs.

Eligibility

Any level faculty are eligible to apply.

Internal Application Process

UCI may submit only three applications for this award opportunity. Interested applicants are asked to submit an intent to apply by Monday, January 5:

• One page description of the proposed project, how the research is innovative, and how it fits into Mather’s priorities. (Write for a highly educated lay audience).
• NIH Style Biosketch or CV

If more than three applicants are interested, there will be an internal competition to determine the top candidates. The three selected candidates will be notified in time to meet the Jan 30 registration date and the Feb 13 LOI deadline. Full proposals will be invited by the Mathers Foundation by Apr 24, 2026.

For an overview of the program, please refer to the guidelines. For additional information please refer to this prepared summary document for UCI applicants.

Questions about our internal campus review process may be directed to Michael Gallo at magallo@uci.edu or x4-0372. For information about Mathers funding priorities, please contact Suzanne Ou (suzanneo@uci.edu) in Corporate & Foundation Relations.