Cottrell Scholar Award
Forecasted
Cottrell Scholar Award supports early-career teacher-scholars in fundamental chemistry, physics, or astronomy research and innovative science education to advance knowledge and educational excellence.
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Funder: Research Corporation for Science Advancement
Due Dates (Anticipated): July 2027 (Proposal deadline)
Funding Amounts: $120,000 over three years
Summary: Supports early-career teacher-scholars combining fundamental research in chemistry, physics, or astronomy with innovative science education initiatives.
Key Information: Applicants may apply only once, and institutional Authorized Organizational Representative approval is required before submission.
Description
The Cottrell Scholar Award, administered by Research Corporation for Science Advancement (RCSA), honors and develops exceptional early-career teacher-scholars recognized for innovative research and potential academic leadership. It supports independent fundamental research in chemistry, physics, or astronomy alongside educational activities at U.S. and Canadian research universities and primarily undergraduate institutions. Awardees join an interdisciplinary, multigenerational community of scholar-educators.
Proposals must combine scientifically significant, innovative, feasible research with an educational plan addressing a meaningful undergraduate or graduate science education problem. Research should pursue new directions distinct from currently funded or pending work. Educational initiatives should fit the institution, offer sustainable impact, and include assessment that improves the project as it progresses. Academic citizenship and future leadership development are also central to the program.
