Overview
The START program prepares trainees to work with two landmark research platforms: the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study, which follows nearly 12,000 youth from ages 9–10 into adulthood, and the HEALthy Brain and Child Development (HBCD) Study, which tracks children from infancy through early childhood. Together, these are the largest long-term studies of brain development and child health in the United States. Trainees receive a $4,000 stipend, personalized mentoring, analytical support, and opportunities to publish while joining a diverse network of peers and experts in substance misuse research. Prior experience with ABCD or HBCD data is not required, and applicants from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Applications will be accepted until all positions are filled. Please apply ASAP or before November 14 at 11:59 PM (ET).
Get Started
Fellows Apply
Mentors Apply
Mentors in the START program will support the next generation of researchers, expand their professional networks, contribute to high-impact publications, and receive recognition for advancing substance misuse research. They will also be provided with travel support, meals, and high-quality accommodations when attending program events. Complete the form below to sign up.
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START Application Priority Review Deadline
Scientific Training in addiction research techniques (start)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the START program?
The START program is a hybrid training initiative designed to prepare scholars to conduct research using the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study and the HEALthy Brain and Child Development (HBCD) Study. It provides mentorship, resources, and professional development to emerging substance misuse researchers.
Who is eligible to apply?
Graduate students, post-doctoral scholars, and faculty members are eligible. Applicants must submit a CV, unofficial transcript, statement of interest, and letter of support as a single PDF.
Do I need prior experience with the ABCD or HBCD studies?
No. Prior experience is not required. The program is designed to train new scholars in the use of these datasets.
What is the trainee stipend amount?
Each trainee receives a $4,000 stipend, along with additional analytical and travel support.
Do mentors get paid?
Mentors are not paid directly but receive covered travel, meals, and accommodations when attending program events. They also gain recognition and opportunities to co-author publications.
Do I have to pay for my flight and hotel?
No. The START program will book and cover your flight and hotel. However, you will need to cover your own ground transportation (such as taxis or rideshares), snacks, and food related to unique dietary restrictions.
What if I miss the deadline?
You should still apply. Applications are reviewed until all positions are filled. If you are not placed in the current cohort, we will also consider you for future cohorts if you are interested.
What is the authorship policy?
START has a specific authorship policy. You may add your primary mentor and colleagues as co-authors and determine the order. However, START scholars who mentor and contribute to the project must also be listed as co-authors.
What are the important application deadlines?
The priority deadline is October 22 at 11:59 PM (ET). Applications will continue to be reviewed until all positions are filled, with a final closing date of November 5 at 11:59 PM (ET).
How long does the application take?
The trainee application takes about 4–8 minutes. The mentor form takes about 3–5 minutes.
What is included in the application?
Applicants must upload one PDF with their CV, unofficial transcript, statement of interest (1 page), and letter of support.
What are the program benefits for trainees?
Trainees receive a stipend, one-on-one mentoring, analytical and travel support, opportunities to publish, and access to a diverse network of peers and experts.
What are the program benefits for mentors?
Mentors help train the next generation of researchers, expand their networks, co-author impactful publications, and enjoy covered travel, food, and accommodations during program events.
How many conferences are required?
Two mandatory in-person conferences: one week-long conference at the University of Vermont in February 2026 and one 2–4 day conference at UCLA in late Fall 2026.
Is food included at the conferences?
Yes, some meals are provided during program events, along with covered travel and accommodations. However, applicants should make arrangements to cover their own meals for breakfast, dinner, and snacks.
What if I don’t have a letter of support yet?
If you cannot obtain a letter of support, provide a statement explaining the situation. Applications are stronger with a letter of support or a statement from a senior colleague.
Can I apply if I feel undervalued or overlooked in my field?
Yes. The program strongly encourages applications from individuals who feel undervalued, overlooked, or outside the norm.
What are the selection criteria?
Applicants are selected based on fit and alignment between the curriculum, the trainee’s goals, and the mentors and resources we can provide—not solely on prior experience.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident?
Yes.
Will travel be covered for the required conferences?
Yes. The program covers and coordinates travel expenses for trainees and mentors attending required events.
How will I be notified if I am accepted?
Applicants will be notified by December 15 at 11:59 PM (ET) via email.
How many positions are available?
The number of positions varies each year depending on funding and mentor availability. Early application is encouraged.
Can I submit more than one application?
No. Only one application per applicant will be reviewed.
Can I edit my application after submission?
Once submitted, the application cannot be modified. Please review carefully before submission. You can reply or email additional documents to start@mednet.ucla.edu.
Will this help me get tenure or a job?
While no program can guarantee career outcomes, START provides strong mentorship, networking, and publication opportunities that can strengthen your academic career.
Is there a dress code at the conferences?
Yes. Professional or business casual attire is expected during program events.
What happens if I can’t attend a required conference?
Attendance at both conferences is mandatory. Trainees who cannot attend will not be eligible for the stipend.
Can I apply if I just started graduate school?
Yes. Graduate students at all stages are welcome, provided they can submit the required documents. First-year and final-year graduate students are encouraged to wait until the next year or next career stage.
Can my advisor also be my mentor in START?
Possibly, but fellows do not choose their mentors. Our goal is that you will also be matched with additional mentors in the mosaic system to expand your network and enhance your training.
Will there be virtual components?
Yes. The program includes virtual training and mentoring sessions in addition to the in-person conferences.
Do mentors have to attend both conferences?
Yes. It is critical for START mentors to be present at both conferences.
Will there be opportunities for collaboration beyond the program?
Yes. Our goal is for START scholars to join the ABCD and/or HBCD consortia, workgroups, and scientific community. Many trainees and mentors continue collaborations and co-authorships long after the program ends.
How do I get started?
Simply complete the short application form online, upload your required documents, and submit by the priority deadline.
Can master’s students apply?
No. This program is designed for future independent scientists. We encourage master’s students to apply once they are in the second year of their PhD program.
Do you have application and interview tips?
Yes. Review the ABCD and HBCD study websites carefully, search for information on the data and variables, and be prepared to explain how you can use the data to advance your career. Strong applications also highlight statistical experience or a clear plan to develop such skills before the program begins. It is beneficial to have a plan for becoming more integrated into ABCD or HBCD consortia over time.
What comes next after the application?
The process includes an initial review of applications, followed by interviews, a possible second review, and additional interviews if needed. Final steps include acceptance letters sent via email and coordination of travel for the required conferences.