Workshops & Events

Upcoming Events

*Virtual events will be labeled*

PI Academy

This series of workshops is designed to empower faculty with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in grant writing. Sessions cover a comprehensive range of topics, from the introductory how to submit proposals at UCSB, to a discussion of effective strategies and resources to craft your data management and sharing plan, to an overview of funding opportunities and initiatives for Minority Serving Institutions, to practical guidance for early career research programs (NSF, NIH, NASA, DOE, DOD). Participants will also gain insights into key elements of competitive grant applications. Additionally, the workshops provide a collaborative environment for faculty to exchange ideas, receive personalized feedback, and stay informed about evolving trends in research funding.

NSF CAREER Program

This training program is specifically designed to support faculty members preparing to submit a proposal for the prestigious CAREER award. The structured program consists of a series of interactive, in-person training modules tailored to the unique requirements of the CAREER program. Sessions cover critical grantwriting topics, such as developing a strong research plan, integrating education and outreach components, and aligning your proposal with NSF’s mission and priorities. In addition to in-person workshops, the program offers focused Zoom sessions that provide deeper dives into essential aspects of your proposal, such as creating a budget, or drafting the institutional letter of support. Curated resources, actionable tips, and reminders are delivered straight to your inbox, ensuring you stay organized and informed throughout the proposal development process.

NSF CAREER Resubmissions                 

Not funded yet? The CAREER Resubmission Support Program is specifically designed for faculty members who are revising and resubmitting their NSF CAREER proposals. This structured program provides tailored guidance to help you refine your previous submission, address reviewer feedback, and strengthen your proposal for success. Key features of the program include virtual group writing sessions, where participants can collaborate with SRI and peers to workshop ideas, exchange feedback, and stay motivated throughout the revision process. Additionally, the program offers comprehensive internal and external reviews of proposal drafts, giving you the opportunity to receive valuable insights from colleagues and experienced reviewers.

Proposal Writing for Success (PROWESS)

Designed for entry-level faculty and new appointees in science and engineering. Spread over nine half-day sessions, it covers a broad range of topics, including proposal writing techniques, a review of prominent funding sources, and proposal preparation practice. Like most of our workshops, PROWESS features presentations from SRI staff and faculty, as well as panels of faculty with particularly relevant experience. Applications are solicited in February and PROWESS is held in June and July.

FUNDamentals

FUNDamentals is a professional development program designed for Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education (HASSE) faculty. Before sitting down to write a research funding proposal, successful grant-seeking requires understanding the culture of your target funding agency, communicating with program directors, and learning to articulate your research to audiences outside of your area of expertise. FUNDAmentals includes a series of workshops – including travel to travel to funding agencies (optional) – for faculty members who are ready to take the first strategic steps in pursuing extramural funding.

Proposal Writing Academy for the Humanities, Arts, Education, and Social Sciences 

This workshop series is for faculty and post-doctoral researchers who have identified a funding opportunity and are ready to systematically write a competitive proposal. The series is relevant for any Humanities, Arts, Social Science, or Education research funding opportunity.