November 26, 2024

NSF GRANTED Program

Transforming Research Administration and Equity in STEM Funding

The National Science Foundation's GRANTED (Growing Research Access for National Transformation and Equity) initiative is transforming the research landscape. This groundbreaking program tackles challenges and inequalities within the research enterprise by funding innovative projects that enhance administrative infrastructure. The goal? To empower more institutions to engage effectively in research and STEM training.

Why Research Administrators Should Care About GRANTED

While groundbreaking experiments and cutting-edge discoveries are the face of research, a robust and equitable administrative framework is its backbone. From ensuring compliance to facilitating technology transfer, and from nurturing future scientists to securing partnerships, research operations are crucial to scientific advancement.

However, many organizations face barriers that limit their contributions to the national research landscape. These obstacles include resource disparities and limited human capital. GRANTED aims to overcome these challenges by supporting:

Improved research operation practices and processes Enhanced human capital development in research administration Scalable models and partnerships to broaden research participation

Spotlight on Recent GRANTED Awards

Let's explore some recently funded GRANTED projects that exemplify the program's objectives:

1. RISE: Research Ecosystem Integration and Siouxland Engagement

PI: Brian McFarland, Morningside University

This project focuses on building research ecosystems in underserved areas, with a particular emphasis on the Siouxland community. By combining administrative resources with community involvement, RISE aims to create a robust and inclusive research infrastructure.

2. Forum on Emerging Research Institutions

PI: Maria Dahlberg, National Academy of Sciences

This initiative creates a platform for emerging research institutions to collaborate and share best practices. The goal is to develop strategies that help these institutions overcome barriers and play a significant role in the research enterprise.

3. Collaborative Research: Revisioning Research Administration at Emerging Research Institutions

PI: Soul Brown, Rhode Island School of Design

This collaborative project across multiple emerging research institutions focuses on innovative approaches to research administration. It aims to create replicable models that foster a more inclusive and equitable research environment.

4. Planning: Research Administration Capacity Building

PI: Kathleen Halvorsen, Michigan Technological University

This planning project evaluates current practices and explores new strategies to enhance administrative efficiency and equity in resource distribution, with the goal of strengthening research administration capabilities.

Getting Involved with GRANTED

The GRANTED initiative welcomes participation from all institutions and organizations involved in or aspiring to contribute to the research enterprise. Proposals should be inclusive, institution-wide, and focused on sustainable solutions. As experts in processes, compliance, and community building, research administrators are ideally positioned to lead these proposals.

Tips for Developing a Strong Proposal:

Engage Broadly: Include diverse stakeholders, from early-career professionals to community organizations. Think Big: Focus on institution-wide impacts and scalable solutions. Seek Guidance: Before submitting, consult with program officers:

• Dina Stroud: dstroud@nsf.gov | (703) 292-5015

• Kimberly Littlefield: klittlef@nsf.gov | (703) 292-4632

Be Part of the Research Transformation

GRANTED is more than just a funding opportunity; it's a call to action for research administrators to drive innovation and equity. By participating, you can help shape the future of research, ensuring it's resilient, diverse, and globally competitive.

For more information, visit the GRANTED Program Page and join the movement to transform the national research enterprise.