University of North Texas Research Fellows Visit APLU

Earlier this month, 10 early-career faculty from the University of North Texas traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet with program officers at various funding agencies. These researchers, nominated by Deans within their respective colleges, participated in a six-month training experience where faculty learned how to engage and connect with funding agencies and gain valuable skillsets to build a sense of assurance and knowledge in grantsmanship.

During the cohort’s stay in Washington, D.C., faculty members seized the opportunity to engage with the Association of Public Land-grant Universities. Debbie Altenburg, Vice President for Research Policy and Advocacy, presented to the group and provided valuable insight into the need to advance research within public universities, pressing science policy issues, and the federal research budget. Additionally, the faculty had the chance to meet with representatives from The National Endowment for the Arts, The National Endowment for the Humanities, The National Science Foundation (NSF), The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Department of Defense. The trip concluded with a reception on Capitol Hill where faculty networked with the Texas congressional delegation, UNT interns, and alums.

“The Division of Research and Innovation is excited to continue fostering the development of our early career faculty through the connections and relationships built during the Washington D.C Fellows Program.” -Pam Padilla, Vice President of Research and Innovation, University of North Texas.