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

Guidelines for Fall 2025

We are pleased to announce that the Fall 2025 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: 

• The student must write the proposal using Google Forms, and a budget summary of their request must be included. ChatGPT or AI cannot be used for the proposal. Please be attentive to word limit counts.
• Applications are open twice during the academic year (once in the Fall and again in the Spring).
• Students who are awarded funding in the Fall may not apply for additional funding in the Spring. 
• After the student applies, the Dean’s Office will request a letter of support from the sponsoring faculty member. 
• Please view this link to an example of a strong FSSRA proposal.

 

Check out these important deadlines!

Application deadline: Friday, September 12, 2025
Department-ranked proposals deadline: Wednesday, October 1, 2025
Award notification: Week of October 6, 2025

Here’s what you need to know about funding:

• Each semester, up to $25,000 in research funding will be distributed.
• Students may request up to $1,000 for materials, supplies, and/or travel related to the research activity.
• All awards are contingent on completing the department’s safety training and any required documentation (e.g., IRB or IACUC approval) for the proposed research activity.
• Applications will be evaluated by the faculty member’s primary department. Evaluated applications with funding recommendations will be forwarded to the College Research Committee, which will provide funding recommendations to the Dean.
• Once awarded, students must expend funds by June 30, 2026. Students are responsible for adhering to internal deadlines and policies for using these funds set by their department.

▶️ Submit your application here. 

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