Selection Criteria for Undergraduate Research Expansion Funding:
The purpose of the Undergraduate Research Expansion funding is to expand the number of existing course-based, volunteer, or other unpaid research opportunities for undergraduate students. Undergraduate Research Expansion funds are meant to compensate faculty time for planning and preparation of research projects, and will be dispersed to the Faculty as Other Professional Services (OPS).
Eligible expenses:
The Undergraduate Research Expansion Challenge Grant funding provides faculty compensation in the form of a stipend disbursed as Other Professional Services (OPS). In the case that the faculty member or PI is not eligible to receive OPS, the funding may be used for hourly wages for undergraduate research employment during the 2021-2022 academic year. All expenses must be completed by June 30, 2022. Funds will be dispersed to the department of the awarded faculty member.
Note: At the end of the fiscal year (6/30/2022), award recipients will be requested to submit a brief description of the number of student research opportunities created, the students impacted by these funds, and the research experience gained through the opportunities provided.
Access the online application here: Undergraduate Research Expansion Funding
Please be prepared to submit the following:
- Faculty applicant name/title;
- Project Description (maximum 750 words). Specify the research project(s) and the type of research activities the student employees will be involved in, any prerequisite courses or skills required by the student employee, and how you will expand access to that at least three additional students can participate in the project. Competitive applications will show strength in one or more of the following criteria:
- Clarity of the application narrative;
- Reasonable project and timeline;
- Clear avenue for creating at least three additional research experiences for undergraduate students in an ongoing project;
- Track record of providing an authentic research experience for undergraduate student participants;
- Potential for the project to promote diversity and inclusion among undergraduate research experiences;
- Alignment of the project with values and vision of the Undergraduate Research Partnership
- Potential for the project to sustain the increased number of undergraduate research participants beyond the end of this funding.
- Signed endorsement from the applicant’s business manager confirming the applicant’s ability to receive OPS through SECD's TRIF account (form provided in application).
- The applicant's CV (full or short) that highlights efforts applicable to the proposal.
Questions about the University of Arizona’s Undergraduate Research Partnership or the application process may be directed to Dr. Kelley Merriam-Castro at kmerriam@arizona.edu.