Align Technology Inc, San Jose, Calif,  has expanded its funding of the Clear Aligner Research Award Program to include international research in order to further the development of clear aligners for the treatment of malocclusion.

Initially launched in 2009 for North America, the research award is an annually funded program designed to promote both clinical and scientific research in clear-aligner therapy.

For 2011, $50,000 is now being made available for scientific research funding to international applicants in addition to the $100,000 currently available to North American applicants.

Eligible applicants include full-time or part-time international university faculty involved in orthodontic scientific research, as well as non-orthodontic international university faculty whose scientific work may contribute to the improvement of clear aligner therapy.

Up to five grants of $10,000 each will be made available to qualified international orthodontic faculty.

Completed applications must be received by March 1, 2011. Applicants will be notified by April 29, 2011.

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