The AAHPM Serious Illness Research Career Consultancy (SIRCC) connects early-career investigators with experienced serious illness researchers for individualized career development mentorship.
Now entering its third year, SIRCC has evolved from a project-based consultation program into a longitudinal career development experience designed to help investigators build sustainable, independent research careers in serious illness.
AAHPM is committed to supporting a vibrant community of interprofessional investigators who will strengthen the evidence base for serious illness care across the lifespan.
2026 SIRCC Cycle
| SUBMISSIONS OPEN | Monday, July 9 |
| SUBMISSION DEADLINE | Wednesday, August 5 at 5pm PT |
| MATCH NOTIFICATION | Mid-August |
Applications are submitted through the Academy’s application platform.
Program Impact
Since launching in 2024, SIRCC has become a trusted resource for researchers pursuing careers in serious illness research.
Program Results
- 83 investigator-consultant matches completed
- 54 consultees matched with 45 expert consultants in 2024
- 29 consultees matched with 29 expert consultants in 2025
Participant Satisfaction
- 100% of consultees agreed their consultation was helpful
- 100% of expert consultants expressed willingness to participate again
- 85% of consultees expressed interest in future consultations
These outcomes demonstrate the value of dedicated mentorship and career guidance within the serious illness research community.
What’s New in Year 3?
SIRCC has been redesigned to focus on long-term career development rather than a single project consultation.
Instead of a one-time consultation, participants are now matched with an expert consultant for:
- Two mentoring sessions over the course of a year
- Longitudinal career development support
- Guidance toward independent research careers
- Strategic planning for funding, mentorship, and career advancement
This updated model allows investigators to build ongoing relationships with experienced researchers while receiving support that evolves alongside their career goals.
How the SIRCC Works
Interprofessional investigators complete a brief application describing:
- Career stage
- Research interest
- Career development goals
Matched participants schedule:
- Two one-hour virtual consultations
- Conducted across the course of the year
- Focused on individualized career development planning
Applicants are paired with an experienced serious illness researcher whose expertise aligns with their goals.
Consultants provide guidance on:
- Research direction
- Funding strategies
- Mentorship development
- Professional advancement
- Building a successful independent research program
AAHPM tracks participation and evaluates outcomes through participant surveys.
Topics for Mentorship & Professional Growth
The SIRCC is designed to enhance existing mentorship relationships, not replace them. For investigators seeking mentorship, consultants can provide guidance on building effective mentoring networks and identifying career sponsors.
- Identifying and refining a serious illness research focus
- Building a mentorship network and research team
- Finding appropriate research training opportunities
- Developing a funding strategy and grant pipeline
- Navigating the fellowship-to-faculty transition
- Balancing clinical and research responsibilities
- Building scholarly visibility through publications and presentations
- Engaging with the national serious illness research infrastructure
Interprofessional Investigators
Early-career investigators are encouraged to apply, including:
- Postdoctoral fellows
- Clinical fellows
- Instructors
- Assistant Professors
- Researchers from any discipline engaged in serious illness research
Applicants do not need to have an active project or grant application.
Investigators at any stage of developing a serious illness research program are encouraged to participate.
AAHPM membership is not required.
Participants receive:
- Two individualized career-development consultations
- Guidance on research direction and career planning
- Funding strategy support
- Access to expertise outside their home institution
- New professional connections within the serious illness research community
Expert Consultants
Consultants should have:
- A record of peer-reviewed publications and/or grant funding
- Expertise in serious illness research
- Experience mentoring early-career investigators
Expert Consultants receive:
- AAHPM Presidential Commendation
- Recognition at the Annual Assembly and/or State of the Science Meeting
- Inclusion in the SIRCC consultant community
- Opportunities for networking and engagement with fellow researchers
How to Apply
Application Portal Information
All applications must be submitted through the Academy’s application portal. Any PDF, Word documents, or handwritten applications will not be accepted.
AAHPM MEMBERS
- Select AAHPM Login
- Sign in using member credentials
NONMEMBERS
- Select Sign in as Guest