Summer is a great time for brainstorming research plans and ideas, and for exploring possible sources of support.
Federal funding opportunities, from NSF and other key agencies, continue to appear at unpredictable intervals, often with shortened timelines to submission. NSF insiders tell us that, as the end of the federal fiscal year approaches, some opportunities may be released as Dear Colleague Letters (DCL), with rapid response required. We will be working to stay alert to these opportunities and support COE faculty as these arise.
Private funders have been working to step up their research support. BER is collaborating with the campus Office of Foundation Relations (Illinois Advancement), in conjunction with COE Advancement. Over the summer, we are offering to set up one-on-one appointments, on demand, for faculty interested in exploring possible foundation funding for their project ideas. Please contact Beth Niswander (eniswan1@illinois.edu) if you are interested.
Research Events
Community Conversations welcomes CU Schools Foundation, discussing mission, local impact and meaningful ways to get involved. University of Illinois Philanthropy Center, Thursday 5/14/26. 9-10:30am. Register to Attend.
3rd Wednesd-AI is a Monthly Learning Community for AI Exploration (bring your own lunch). University of Illinois Philanthropy Center, Wednesday 5/13/26, 12-1pm. In person or by Zoom.
Training Opportunities and Resources
Resources for Researchers: The IDEA Lab (Grainger Library). Collaborative technology center provides access to emerging technologies for learning, instruction, research, and play to all Illinois-affiliated i-card holders. Spotlight Session Tuesday 5/19/26, 1-2pm. Join online.
NSF Office of Integrative Activities offers ETAP (Education and Training Application) to connect individuals (e.g., teachers and students) with NSF-funded education and training opportunities. Includes participant data collection and evaluation tools. Free of charge.
Research Funding
AERA Research Grants. Small grants for faculty members, postdoctoral researchers, and other doctoral-level scholars to undertake quantitative research using data from large-scale data sets. Due 5/20/26.
NSF Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU). Intensive research by undergrads in any NSF-funded area of research. REU Sites engage a cohort of students in research projects related to a theme. Supplements engage students in research related to a new or ongoing NSF research award. Due 8/19/26.
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