This month the Office of Vice President for Research (OVPR) brings opportunities for researchers and scholars across campus to build interdisciplinary teams and grow their communities. 

Join a team to tackle Iowa’s most pressing challenge

Researchers can apply for the Reducing Iowa’s Cancer Risk through Novel Collaborations Ideas Lab (Jan. 12–14, 2026). This highly interactive event is designed to spark cross-disciplinary collaborations and novel research directions. No cancer, medical, or genetic expertise is required. 

Nominate high-impact Hawkeyes for the Discovery and Innovation Awards

Help us honor faculty, staff, students, or postdoctoral scholars who have:

• achieved national recognition for research and scholarship;
• disseminated research to broad public audiences;
• advanced research safety;
• administered and coordinated complex research programs; and
• mentored the next generation of researchers, scholars, and artists. 

Submit by Jan. 12, 2026. 

Join a Large Grant Development Networking Session

The OVPR will prioritize applications for the Large Grant Development Opportunity from teams who represent multiple colleges, departments, and disciplines. 

Get help building a team and a competitive application. Join an upcoming networking session:  

• Brain Science and Mental Health (Nov. 4)
• Cancer Research and Patient Care (Nov. 11)
• Writing and Communication
  (Nov. 21)

Mark your calendar for Book Matters on Nov. 5

Join acclaimed authors Melissa Febos, professor of English and director of the Nonfiction Writing Program, and Donika Kelly, associate professor of English, as they read from their latest books and discuss the intimate, transformative themes that shape their work. 

7 – 8:30 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 5
Free and open to the public 

Discover what is on Melissa's bookshelf

Melissa Febos takes the public on a tour of the books in her home and office. Like many writers, Melissa recognizes her book-hoarding tendencies. She knows hard choices must be made before a book earns a spot in her collection.

She says, “On these bookshelves are the books that are dearest to me.”  

Explore the CSSI Annual Report

One year ago, the Iowa Board of Regents approved the establishment of the Center for Social Science Innovation (CSSI). Since then, CSSI has emerged as a community for interdisciplinary collaboration, connecting researchers across colleges. Learn more about their programs and accomplishments.

Apply to direct an Obermann Symposium

The Obermann Symposium Directorship is an opportunity for UI scholars to explore an important topic using an interdisciplinary lens and invite speakers to respond from their unique perspectives. Directors receive $15,000 plus significant staff support. Apply by Oct. 29. 

Learn from awards recipients at the Humanities Award Showcase and Reception

Hear from accomplished UI humanities awardees about their experiences with the application process, need-to-know information, plus much more. It is open to all faculty who would like to learn more about external awards and recognition. 

3:30 – 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 4
Please register by Oct. 27

Subscribe to Funding Focus, the best news source for limited submissions

The Conversation is an independent news organization dedicated to unlocking the knowledge of academic experts. Check out a recent article from a UI author:

Help the public understand your work. To learn how you can get your research published in The Conversation, contact Kristy Nabhan-Warren.