Directed Research Grant
The Directed Research Grant supports faculty and graduate student research on Return to Play within the NSCA’s strength and conditioning mission, with findings presented at the NSCA National Conference.
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Funder: NSCA Foundation
Due Dates: October 15, 2026 (LOI) | February 15, 2027 (invited full proposal)
Funding Amounts: Up to two grants annually, each up to $25,000 USD for projects lasting up to 24 months
Summary: Supports research on Return to Play that advances strength and conditioning.
Key Information: Applicants must be NSCA or International Affiliate members at application and award.
Description
The NSCA Foundation’s Directed Research Grant funds work on a topic selected annually by the NSCA Board of Directors. The 2027 topic is Return to Play. Proposed research must address that topic and fall within the NSCA’s strength and conditioning mission. Faculty members and graduate students may apply, and the NSCA Foundation Grant Committee oversees the grant.
Funding can support research activities, including student salary support, project-related travel and open-access publication fees. Awardees are expected to present their findings during the NSCA Foundation presentations at the NSCA National Conference and must budget for that travel.
