Advancing the Science of Engagement in Research PCORI Funding Announcement -- Cycle 2 2026
Funds research to develop and validate measures and methods for effective stakeholder engagement in health research, aiming to advance the science of engagement.
Funder: Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute
Due Dates: April 28, 2026 (Letter of Intent) | September 1, 2026 (Full application)
Funding Amounts: Up to $1 million (Category 1, 24 months) | Up to $1.5 million (Category 2, 36 months); total funding up to $36 million in this cycle
Summary: Funds research to develop, validate, and test measures and methods for effective stakeholder engagement in the research process, aiming to advance the science of engagement in health research.
Key Information: LOI required; projects focused on engagement in research (not clinical care); individuals may not apply.
Description
This opportunity supports studies that advance the evidence base on engagement in research, specifically focusing on the development and validation of measures to capture the structure, context, process, and outcomes of engagement, as well as the development and testing of techniques that lead to effective engagement in research. The initiative addresses significant gaps such as the lack of consensus on defining or measuring engagement and a limited understanding of which engagement methods are most effective. Applicants are expected to define and measure engagement activities and behaviors, investigate causal mechanisms, and explore how engagement techniques should be adapted for various contexts, settings, and communities. The ultimate goal is to improve understanding of how stakeholder engagement throughout the research process enhances the relevance, efficiency, and impact of health research.
