Multicampus Research Programs and Initiatives (MRPI) Pilot Awards
The MRPI Pilot Awards fund new, multidisciplinary research collaborations across at least three UC campuses to drive scientific innovation and benefit California.
Funder: University of California - Office of The President
Due Dates: March 19, 2026 (LOI, 12:00 noon PT) | August 6, 2026 (Full application, 12:00 noon PT)
Funding Amounts: Up to $250,000/year for 1–2 years; total funding pool approx. $5.8M; non-renewable.
Summary: Supports new, collaborative, multicampus research projects across UC campuses to advance multidisciplinary innovation and benefit California.
Key Information: Requires participation from at least three UC campuses; LOI is mandatory before full application.
Description
The Multicampus Research Programs and Initiatives (MRPI) Pilot Awards provide funding to catalyze new, collaborative research efforts that span at least three University of California (UC) campuses. The program is designed to foster pioneering multidisciplinary or interdisciplinary research, strengthen the UC research enterprise, enhance education and training, and deliver benefits to both the university system and the broader California community. MRPI Pilot Awards are intended for new collaborations not previously supported by MRPI or ongoing UC systemwide/state funds.
