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

Guidelines for Fall 2026

We are pleased to announce that our Fall 2026 CSM Faculty-Sponsored Student Research Awards (FSSRA) program is now accepting applications!

Here’s what you need to know about applying: 

• This is the first call for proposals of this academic year. The total funding allocated this year is $50K (same as last year), with $25K distributed in Fall ‘26 and the remaining $25K awarded in Spring ‘27. 
• Students may use funds awarded this semester through June 30, 2027. 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.

Check out these important deadlines!

• Student Submission deadline: Wednesday, September 16, 2026 (11:59 PM)
  
  • Note: Faculty Support Letters are also due: Wednesday, September 16, 2026 (11:59 PM)
• Department-ranked proposals deadline: Monday, October 5, 2026 (5:00 PM)
• Award notification: Week of October 8th, 2026

Faculty Support Letter Requirement:

• Your Letter of Support for your sponsored student applicant(s) is due Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at 11:59 PM. This is the same deadline as the student application deadline.
• Faculty are responsible for submitting their Letter(s) of Support by the deadline. Please email completed letters to: csmsa@mail.fresnostate.edu
• Important: 
  
  • Missing the Faculty Support Letter deadline will automatically disqualify the student from consideration for the FSSRA funding opportunity.
    Please make sure your letter(s) of Support are submitted by the deadline to ensure your sponsored student applicant(s) remain eligible for consideration.

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 June 30, 2027, 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.