College of Science and Mathematics  Faculty-Sponsored Student Research Awards Programs  

Guidelines for Spring 2026

We are pleased to announce that our Spring 2026 CSM's Faculty Sponsored Student Research Award (FSSRA) program is now accepting applications! Faculty-Sponsored Student Research Awards (FSSRA) give undergraduate and graduate students in the College of Science and Mathematics the chance to work directly with a faculty mentor on research in their area of expertise. With FSSRA, you will:

• Collaborate closely with a faculty mentor who will guide and support your research journey.
• Engage in meaningful faculty-driven projects or design your own in partnership with your mentor.
• Receive funding for research needs such as materials, data collection, or travel to present your findings at conferences.

These awards are more than financial support—they are an opportunity to deepen your mentorship connections, gain hands-on research experience, and grow as a scholar tackling real scientific questions. 

 

Here’s what you need to know about applying: 

• This is the second and final call for proposals this academic year. The total funding allocated this year is $50K (same as last year), with $25K distributed in Fall ‘25 and the remaining $25K awarded in Spring ‘26. Please note that students are eligible to apply for funding in Spring ‘26 if they were not awarded in Fall ‘25.
• Students may use funds awarded this semester through December 31, 2026. We hope this will allow those with research or conference activities during the summer to use their awards more effectively.
• The sponsoring faculty member should provide the student with a supporting letter and note any of the student’s accomplishments from past awards. The Dean’s Office will collect the letters of support. 
• Please view this link to an example of a strong FSSRA proposal.

 

Check out these important deadlines!

Student Submission deadline: Thursday, February 19, 2026 (11:59 PM)
Note: Faculty Support Letters are also due: Thursday, February 19, 2026 (11:59 PM)
Department-ranked proposals deadline: Monday, March 9, 2026
Award notification: Week of March 10th 

Here’s what you need to know about funding:

• Students may request up to $1,000 for materials and supplies to support their research or conference expenses to present a paper or poster. 
• Funds must be expended by December 31, 2026, and it is the responsibility of awardees to check with the department on their internal deadlines and policies for using these funds.  
• The student must write the proposal using Google Forms, and a budget summary of their request must be included. Please be attentive to word limit counts.
• All awards are contingent on completing your department’s safety training and any documentation (e.g. IRB or IACUC approval) required to conduct the proposed research activities.
• Proposals will be ranked by the faculty member’s primary department. Proposals and departmental rankings will then be forwarded to the College Research Committee, which will provide funding recommendations to the Dean.

▶️Submit your application here.

Questions? Concerns? Contact us at csmsa@mail.fresnostate.edu or 559-278-3936.