How to Write a Faculty Startup Wishlist That Gets Funded

In this follow‑up episode of the Visionary MD Podcast, Dr. Onwuemene continues the conversation about faculty startup negotiations and explains how early‑career physician scientists should approach writing their startup wishlist.

In the previous episode, Tracy described how institutional funding decisions resemble investment decisions. Academic leaders manage pools of capital and deploy that funding strategically in researchers who are likely to generate strong returns through grants, program growth, and long‑term funding.

In this episode, she shifts perspective to the investigator and explains how to design a startup wishlist that aligns with the way institutional “investors” think.

If you are being asked to submit a wishlist during recruitment or early faculty development, it likely means leadership is considering whether to bring your case forward for investment. Your document must therefore function as a clear and compelling investment proposal.

Key elements of a strong faculty startup wishlist:

• Alignment with institutional priorities. Your research program should clearly fit the institution’s existing portfolio, disease focus areas, or strategic priorities.
• The operator: you. Investors want to know who will lead the program. Your training, track record, expertise, and credibility matter.
• The team you will build. Successful research programs are not one‑person operations. Clearly outline the personnel and expertise needed to support your work.
• Feasibility of the research plan. Your proposal should demonstrate that the science, resources, and operational plan make success realistic.
• Ask for what is required to succeed. Avoid under‑asking. Institutions evaluate whether the investment can realistically lead to major funding and program growth.
• A clear return on investment. Show how institutional support leads to career development awards, R‑level grants, and long‑term funding.
• Defined milestones. Map the path from startup support to major grant funding so leaders can see how the investment unfolds over time.

When structured thoughtfully, your startup wishlist becomes more than a resource request—it becomes a strategic investment case for your future research program.