The Young Investigator Awards competition provides young scientific investigators of promise with an opportunity to showcase their cutting-edge research. At ACC.26, 15 finalists will present their work in the Basic and Translational Science, Clinical Investigations and Outcomes Research categories. The winner in each category receives a $2,000 prize, the runners-up receive $1,000 and 3 honorable mentions in each category receive $500. All 15 finalists receive up to $1,500 in reimbursement to attend the YIA competition at ACC's Annual Scientific Session. The Young Investigator Awards Program is supported by the Douglas P. Zipes, MD, MACC Endowment Fund.

Who is eligible?

• Physicians, scientists, medical students, and other healthcare providers currently in residency or fellowship programs or no more than three years out of training as of the start of Annual Meeting, March 28, 2026.
• PA, PhD, PharmD or DNP candidates who are no more than three years out of training as of the start of Annual Meeting, March 28, 2026.
• Note: Candidates will be eligible for this award up to four years after completion of training if more than three months of family or sick leave was taken during training or in the first three years after completion of training.

How do I apply?

Please visit the YIA Submission Site to obtain the YIA Policies and Procedures and Submission Instructions, and to submit your abstract to be considered for one of the three competitions!

Submissions are due no later than 11:59pm ET, Monday, August 25, 2025.

Questions may be directed to awards@acc.org.