Discover how Oregon State University’s Academy Seed Funds provide essential research funding opportunities to support transdisciplinary projects and secure extramural funding for your academic endeavors.
Introduction
Securing adequate research funding opportunities is a cornerstone of successful academic and scientific endeavors. Oregon State University’s Academy Seed Funds offer a pivotal resource for early to mid-career faculty aiming to accelerate their research projects. These funds are designed to foster transdisciplinary collaborations, build robust research teams, and prepare comprehensive proposals for extramural funding.
What Are the Academy Seed Funds?
The Academy Seed Funds, part of OSU’s Research Advancement Academy (RAA), are tailored to support faculty members in advancing their research. These funds are specifically allocated to:
- Build transdisciplinary research teams: Encouraging collaborations across various disciplines to tackle complex societal challenges.
- Pursue extramural funding: Assisting researchers in developing proposals that attract external funding sources.
- Sustain research momentum: Providing continuous support to ensure ongoing research initiatives thrive.
Benefits of Academy Seed Funds
Leveraging the Academy Seed Funds offers numerous advantages:
- Accelerated Research Progress: Quick infusion of funds helps in rapidly advancing research projects.
- Enhanced Collaborations: Facilitates partnerships across different sectors and disciplines.
- Increased Funding Success: Strengthens the foundation for securing larger extramural grants.
- Sustained Research Development: Supports long-term research goals and infrastructure growth.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Academy Seed Funds, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Current RAA Fellows: Only those enrolled in the 2024-25 RAA cohort are eligible.
- Good Standing: Demonstrated progress towards RAA goals and active participation in academy activities.
- Matching Funds: Applicants must secure matching funds from their college leadership, including the Associate Dean for Research.
Application Process
Applying for the Academy Seed Funds involves several key steps:
- Submission Portal: Use OSU’s InfoReady platform, which opens on March 1, 2025.
- Prepare Application Materials: Develop a narrative plan, budget, and budget justification.
- Oral Presentation: Deliver a 3-minute pitch to faculty peers and university leadership.
- Deadlines:
– Written application due by April 10, 2025.
– Pitch slides submitted by April 14, 2025.
– Presentations held on April 16, 2025.
Priorities for Investment
Proposals are evaluated based on their alignment with the Prosperity Widely Shared (PWS) goals. Key investment priorities include:
Transdisciplinary Research
Transdisciplinary Research integrates knowledge across disciplines, fostering innovative solutions to societal challenges. Projects should demonstrate how they transcend traditional boundaries to address critical issues.
Focus Areas
Research should align with one of the following PWS focus areas:
- Climate Science and Solutions
- Clean Energy and Solutions
- Robotics
- Integrated Health and Biotechnology
Diverse Research Teams
Projects must assemble or strengthen a diverse team, including scientists, artists, engineers, and social scientists from multiple OSU colleges and external partners.
Equitable Partnerships
Investments should foster partnerships with community organizations, minority-serving institutions, or tribal governments, promoting positive and enduring collaborations.
How to Prepare a Successful Application
Preparing a compelling application involves several strategic steps:
- Narrative Plan: Clearly articulate your research objectives, methodology, and expected impact.
- Budget Planning: Provide a detailed budget that aligns with your research needs and justifies each expenditure.
- Pitch Presentation: Craft a persuasive oral presentation that highlights the significance of your research and its potential benefits to society.
- Visual Aids: Utilize relevant visuals to enhance understanding, avoiding technical jargon.
“Prosperity Widely Shared” emphasizes the importance of research that benefits a broad range of stakeholders, ensuring that advancements contribute to societal well-being.
Important Dates
Keep track of these crucial deadlines to ensure a timely application:
- March 1, 2025: InfoReady application portal opens.
- April 10, 2025, 5:00 p.m. PST: Written application submission deadline.
- April 14, 2025, 5:00 p.m.: Pitch slides submission deadline.
- April 16, 2025: Public pitch session and presentations.
- May 15, 2025: Award announcements.
- July 1, 2025: Seed fund project start date.
Conclusion
Oregon State University’s Academy Seed Funds represent a significant research funding opportunity for faculty members dedicated to advancing their academic and scientific pursuits. By fostering transdisciplinary collaborations and supporting the development of comprehensive research proposals, these funds play a crucial role in driving innovation and addressing pressing societal challenges.
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