The Neurosurgery Research & Education Foundation (NREF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the future of neurosurgery. NREF achieves this by supporting basic science and clinical research and lifelong education and fostering improved outcomes for patients with neurosurgical diseases.
Federal funding for research and training declined precipitously in the mid-70s; NREF was established in December 1980 as the philanthropic arm of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) to encourage innovation in neurosurgery.
With support from individual members, industry partners, sections and affiliated organizations, the NREF has invested more than $30 million into the future of neurosurgery over the past 43 years.
Thousands of residents and fellows have attended NREF courses. Hundreds of physician-scientists’ careers started with an NREF research grant. Fellows have trained with world-renowned surgeons at some of the most prestigious programs in North America funded by NREF fellowships. NREF’s summer research fellowship program for medical students prepares the next generation to join the specialty.
A survey of NREF grant recipients revealed that for every dollar received from the NREF, awardees received an average $134 in subsequent funding. Specifically:
- 82% received at least one other grant after NREF
- 67% became a Principal Investigator on a subsequent grant
- 23% were awarded an RO1 or equivalent grant
- 73% are currently in academic practice
That’s a dramatic return on investment! And that return is higher than other surgical specialties see:
NIH Funding Success
- Neurosurgery 49%
- Orthopedics 22%
- Otolaryngology 29%
- Colorectal 29%
- Plastic Surgery 25%
- Thoracic Surgery 22-44%
NREF grants provide a tremendous return on investment across various career stages and subspecialties. They also appear to have a broader impact on the trajectory of research and innovation within the field of neurosurgery.
Like an investment in a blue-chip stock or enterprising start-up, a contribution to NREF can make a significant impact. Your donations have a real impact on the future of neurosurgery and can make a difference in the lives of patients that require life-saving neurosurgical care.
The field of neurosurgery is constantly evolving; with new advancements come new challenges. NREF is committed to addressing these challenges by funding innovative research and providing leading-edge educational opportunities for residents, fellows and medical students.
Consider joining NREF’s mission to improve patient outcomes through innovative research and education.
