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The Williams Syndrome Foundation is a registered charity which aims to promote research and funding into Williams Syndrome by providing help and support for families with affected children. The Foundation acts as support, information and advisory service and keeps members in touch through publications, events and a national regional network.

»Ê¼Ò»ªÈË the bursary

This bursary is established in honour of Sir George and Lady Cynthia Cooper, the founders of the Williams Syndrome Foundation. It will be awarded every year at RCPCH Conference.

It recognises the best scientific paper related to paediatric learning disability that has been published in a peer-reviewed journal within the last two years. It is open to pre-consultant grade doctors, including comparable grades, who have published original research that advances the understanding of paediatric learning disability.

Submitted papers are judged by an adjudicating committee, established by RCPCH, with respect to their scientific content, clinical contribution and presentation.

The bursary consists of:

• £1,000 to the successful candidate, awarded as a £500 cash prize to the candidate and £500 towards the costs associated with attending RCPCH Conference, including travel, overnight accommodation and the day attendance fee to Conference.
• £1,000 to the winner’s department to purchase equipment or other expenses connected with their research.

How to apply

The award is currently closed and not taking submissions. We will open applications for the 2026 award in September 2025. (Information about the application process and the application form is available below for reference.)

Applicants are required to complete an application form (see downloads) and provide a PDF copy of their publication which must have been published within the last two years. 

For more information, please contact the Research & Evidence team on research@rcpch.ac.uk.