Medical Acupuncture Research Foundation (MARF)

The AAMA’s Medical Acupuncture Research Foundation (MARF) was established to draw attention to the important work our members are doing and to support their clinical and scientific research relating to medical acupuncture. MARF inspires and supports research and the generation of new knowledge in medical acupuncture.

The Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization that functions as a separate entity alongside the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture. It is recognized as a tax-exempt, not-for-profit organization. Contributions to MARF are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Mission

To champion medical acupuncture by building infrastructure for medical acupuncture research through the use of mentorship, education, and funding.

Vision

To enhance patient well-being through evidence-based medical acupuncture research.

Priorities

The primary activities and focus of the Foundation include:

  • Promotion, distribution and monitoring of the Medical Acupuncture Research Foundation’s Allen McDaniels Grant
  • Annual Research paper competition associated with the Annual Symposium
  • Mentoring and assisting medical acupuncture research activities

Annual & Ongoing Opportunities

Allen McDaniels Grant – Medical Acupuncture Research Foundation

The Allen McDaniels Grant – Medical Acupuncture Research Foundation awards up to $30,000 to a qualified applicant to support original, clinical research relating to medical acupuncture. All current AAMA members are eligible to apply for the grant.  Learn more and apply!

Annual Research Paper Competition

Each spring, the AAMA hosts an Acupuncture Research Paper Competition, at the end of which first-, second- and third-place awards are presented. Cash prizes are also awarded to the winners. The first place winner typically has the opportunity to present their paper at the AAMA Annual Symposium. Submissions must be original work, in either clinical research or basic biochemical or physiological research pertaining to acupuncture. The work must not have been previously published.