Apply to Fellowship
The Global Brain Health Institute (GBHI) is committed to developing a global community of leaders working to advance brain health equity. The Atlantic Fellows for Equity in Brain Health program is at the heart of this mission, providing education, mentorship, leadership development, and support to experienced professionals from diverse disciplines.
Through the fellowship program at UCSF, fellows deepen their understanding of brain health and dementia while developing the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to create meaningful change. Grounded in the clinical and research excellence of the UCSF Memory and Aging Center, the fellowship combines graduate-level learning, leadership development, mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration within a global hybrid learning model.
Eligibility Criteria
A typical Atlantic Fellow is an emerging leader who works across disciplines, embraces diverse perspectives, and is committed to advancing brain health equity in communities around the world.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements to be considered:
- Willingness and availability to complete the year-long global hybrid fellowship, including required online learning, international in-person workshops, and a residential learning experience at UCSF.
- Proficiency in English.
- Completion of a field-specific terminal degree or equivalent professional training.
- Ability to travel internationally as required.
Choosing a Fellowship Site
Atlantic Fellows for Equity in Brain Health complete their fellowship year at one of Choosing a Fellowship Site
Atlantic Fellows for Equity in Brain Health complete their fellowship year at one of two sites: UCSF or Trinity. While both programs share the same mission, values, and commitment to advancing brain health equity, they offer different learning experiences.
The UCSF fellowship follows a global hybrid model that combines interactive online learning with international in-person workshops and a required residential learning experience at UCSF. Trinity offers a full-time, in-person fellowship based in Dublin.
Applicants may apply to only one fellowship site per application cycle. We encourage you to review both programs carefully and choose the site that best aligns with your professional goals, availability, and preferred learning format.. While both programs share the same mission, values, and commitment to advancing brain health equity, they offer different learning experiences.
Tips for a Successful Application
Competitive applicants demonstrate:
- A long-term commitment to advancing brain health equity.
- Leadership potential and a collaborative mindset.
- A strong record of professional achievement.
- The ability to work across disciplines and cultures.
- Creative ideas with the potential to improve brain health in their communities.
- A willingness to contribute to and learn from a diverse global fellowship community.
Regional Mentorship
Atlantic Fellows come from around the world and are expected to create lasting impact within their home communities.
Applicants are asked to identify a regional mentor who can support their leadership development and future work following the fellowship. Regional mentors play an important role in helping fellows connect their fellowship experience to local priorities, partnerships, and opportunities for impact.
Because mentorship takes many forms across different countries and professions, applicants are encouraged to review our guidance on selecting a regional mentor before applying.
Education and Professional Experience
The fellowship welcomes applicants from a wide range of disciplines and professional backgrounds. Competitive applicants bring established expertise in their fields and are ready to build on that experience through interdisciplinary learning and leadership development.
Applicants typically include:
- Artists and creative professionals who use storytelling, design, performance, or other creative practices to improve brain health and dementia awareness.
- Clinicians, including physicians, nurses, psychologists, therapists, and other healthcare professionals committed to improving dementia care and diagnosis.
- Researchers with expertise in neuroscience, public health, social science, engineering, or related disciplines who seek to advance knowledge and innovation.
- Public health professionals, policymakers, entrepreneurs, advocates, and community leaders working to improve brain health through systems change, education, policy, technology, or community engagement.
Application Process
Applications are reviewed through a competitive selection process.
Selected applicants will be invited to interview. Interviews are by invitation only, and all applicants will be notified of their status by email.
Application Components
Applications include:
- Online application
- Résumé or curriculum vitae
- Statements of purpose describing your interest in the fellowship, leadership experience, and future goals
- Two letters of support
Letters of support should demonstrate your leadership potential and the strength of your professional network. At least one letter should come from a current employer, institution, organization, or professional collaborator who can speak to your experience and your capacity to create impact following the fellowship.
Applicants are encouraged to contact their letter writers early to ensure letters are submitted before the application deadline.
Applications are considered complete only when all required materials have been received.
The fellowship is conducted in English, and all application materials must be submitted in English.
Applicants invited to the final stage of the selection process may be asked to provide official transcripts.
Information Webinars
Join an upcoming information webinar to learn more about the Atlantic Fellows for Equity in Brain Health program at UCSF, hear from faculty and alumni, and ask questions about the application process.
UCSF Applicant Webinar | Atlantic Fellows for Equity in Brain Health
Tuesday, August 11, 2026
8:00–9:00 AM (PDT) | 4:00–5:00 PM (UTC+1)
Save the date—registration details coming soon.
View a recording of our previous webinar below.
FAQs & Resources
If you have a question which hasn’t been answered in our fellowship application webpages and webinars, please visit our Frequently Asked Questions
If you still can’t find what you need, please email us at:
GBHI at UCSF: GBHIApply@ucsf.edu
Stay Connected
Sign up for the GBHI Newsletter to receive application updates and other news from the Atlantic Fellows for Equity in Brain Health program.
Apply to Fellowship
Thank you for your interest in joining a community dedicated to advancing brain health and creating a healthier future for all.
Applicants may apply to only one fellowship site per application cycle. We encourage you to review both programs carefully and choose the site that best aligns with your professional goals, availability, and preferred learning format. While both programs share the same mission, values, and commitment to advancing brain health equity, they offer different learning experiences.
