The Kaiser-Goldberg Research Fellowship is designed to support students interested in neuroendocrine and/or reproductive endocrine research. The program funds a 10–12 week summer program for one selected student annually to work in an Endocrine Society member's lab. This award supports early career endocrine researchers with the goal of expanding the endocrinology workforce.
Background: This award is generously endowed by Ursula Kaiser, MD, and Mark Goldberg, MD, through the Endocrine Society Hormone Foundation.
Benefits: The recipient will receive a $5,000 stipend to cover their living expenses or other costs associated with the research project.
2026 Kaiser Goldberg Research Fellowship Recipient
Maryam Afghah Institution: Clemson University
Institution for summer project: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Maryam Afghah is a third-year PhD student in Biological Sciences at Clemson University in Dr. Kylie Rock’s laboratory. She studies how endocrine-disrupting chemicals during the preconception period affect placental development and long-term offspring health. Her research has shown that preconception exposure to a human-relevant phthalate mixture disrupts maternal estrous cyclicity, causes sex-specific placental changes, and alters offspring growth trajectories. Support from the Kaiser-Goldberg Research Fellowship will provide her with advanced training in steroid hormone regulation of blastocyst development and help position her for an independent career in reproductive toxicology and endocrinology.
Eligibility Criteria
Undergraduate Student
Medical Student
PhD Student
Students pursuing other post-baccalaureate academic programs (Master’s student or international equivalent)
Nonmember applicants are encouraged to apply but mentors must be Endocrine Society members.
Both international and US-based applicants are eligible for this award.
Application Requirements
Upload a 1-2 page personal statement describing your interest in endocrinology and your motivation for wanting to participate in the program including your long-term goals along with any barriers or challenges you have encountered that may have affected your academic or professional path.
The summary must be co-signed by the applicant’s research mentor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, if your summer research takes place during a summer when you are transitioning between academic programs, you are eligible. However, if you have already completed your PhD or medical school, you are not eligible.
Payments will be received in two installments and will be processed via direct deposit or wire transfer.
Winners must submit a brief research summary at the conclusion of their project to receive their final payment installment.
Maryam Afghah