In order to encourage and facilitate greater interdisciplinary research across departments at A&M-Commerce, the Office of Graduate Studies & Research is accepting pre-proposals that demonstrate interdisciplinary research activities, and at the same time have to potential to attract external funding to sustain continued activities.  A major component of the proposed work must be integrative, research-based, and involve graduate and undergraduate education and training activities in emerging areas of research. The project should be organized around an interdisciplinary theme involving a diverse group of faculty members. The interdisciplinary theme must provide a framework for integrating research and for promoting collaborative efforts within and across departments.

Students of this project should gain the breadth of skills, strengths, and understanding to work in an interdisciplinary environment while being well grounded with depth of knowledge in a major field. The experience gained by the student should contribute to their professional and personal development and equip them to understand and integrate scientific, technical, business, social, ethical, and policy issues to confront the challenging problems of the future.  Participation of individuals at the undergraduate level is encouraged especially those that show promise to continue into a graduate program at A&M-Commerce. Demonstration of how PIs presently or previously funded projects can be used to gain leverage for the success of the project is encouraged.

Features of the Integrative Research Projects: Projects are expected to incorporate and integrate the following features and clearly outlined in the proposals: 1) a comprehensive interdisciplinary theme; 2) integration of the interdisciplinary research that demonstrate the involvement, interaction, and training of graduate and/or undergraduate students involved; 3) an environment that exposes students to a broad base of state-of-the-art research instruments and equipment and educational tools and methodologies; 4) professional development opportunities and experiences for the students involved; 5) demonstrated administrative plan and organizational structure that ensures effective management of the project resources; and 6) outline for dissemination of results gained; and 7) clear demonstration of long term sustenance of the project including a description of how additional funds will be gained for the project. Funds up to $30,000 may be requested.  Funds cannot be used for faculty salary.

Submit pre-proposals to Natalie Henderson, Graduate Studies & Research, by last Monday of October. Pre-proposals must include the following:  1) title of project; 2) project goals, significance of research, and expected outcomes; 3) nature of student involvement and training; 4) research personnel; and 5) facilities and resources.  Limit each pre-proposal section to 250 words.

The University Research and Creative Activities Committee will review pre-proposals and invite full proposals, which must be submitted by the last Monday of January. All projects must commence by the start of the summer semester, and funds must be spent or encumbered by the last day of August.

Guidelines

Application Form

Budget Form

Checklist

Graduate Assistant Salary Info

Student Worker Pay Rate