Catalyst Award for Data Access

Purpose

This award supports STS National Database Institutionally Funded & Analyzed (PUF) research expenses, specifically to cover data file access costs.

Eligibility

• Open to cardiothoracic surgeons certified by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery, or other researchers with a project focused on CT surgery.
• Candidates must have an approved Institutionally Funded & Analyzed (PUF) application already secured (June 1, 2025 or later encouraged).
• The applicant should have received a formal notification letter of approval for their Institutionally Funded & Analyzed (PUF) application but should not be in receipt of data at the time of applying for this award.
• PUF projects approved prior to the STS Research and Analytic Center program restructuring (effective April 2026) remain eligible.

Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to review the following in advance of formally submitting an application:

• Institutionally Funded & Analyzed (PUF) program webpage, which includes a list of de-identified variables available for study and program guidelines.
• List of Current Projects and Published Research.
• STS Research and Analytic Center Research Programs Application.

Award Amount

Support of up to $10,000 awarded in one lump sum for one year. No additional funds will be paid out for indirect, fringe, or other expenditures.

Required Application Materials

• Project Description
• Personal Statement
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Letter of Recommendation

Timeline

• Application Open: July 1, 2026
• Application Deadline: September 15, 2026
• Applicants Notified of Award or Regrets: December 2026 - January 2027

See full award timeline here.