Updates, resources, and opportunities supporting research at Brown.
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DECEMBER 2025
In the Spotlight
Researchers launch Brown University-based national institute on AI in mental health
Researchers from across the nation with expertise in computer science, psychology, neuroscience and other fields gathered at Brown on Nov. 20–21 to formally launch ARIA, the University’s new National Science Foundation–funded artificial intelligence research institute. The two-day kickoff event was organized by the Research Strategy and Development team in DOR and brought together scholars to foster collaboration and set the institute’s research agenda.
MESSAGE FROM THE VPR
Greetings,
As we come to the close of a challenging year, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the tragedy our community experienced this past weekend. My heart goes out to all those affected, and I know many of us are carrying a heavy weight as we process these events. In times of such profound difficulty, I am reminded of the strength and care we show one another, and I hope we can all find moments of peace and connection as we move toward the break.
I want to extend my sincere thanks for all you do to advance our research mission, even amidst painful circumstances, and to wish you and your loved ones a restorative holiday season and winter break.
Looking ahead: Internal funding opportunities
As we look ahead to the new year, I’m pleased to share that the Division of Research will once again sponsor a number of internal funding opportunities to support your work and catalyze new ideas:
Research Seed Program: Supporting new directions in faculty research.
Richard B. Salomon Faculty Research Awards: These awards were just announced; please visit the 2026 Salomon Guidelines for details.
Humanities Research Funds: Coming in early January (see note below).
Research Achievement Awards
I also want to remind you that nominations for the Research Achievement Awards are due January 20. I hope you will consider nominating colleagues whose research excellence and impact deserve special recognition.
I look forward to all that we will accomplish together in the year ahead.
Best wishes,
Greg Hirth
Vice President for Research
2026 Research Achievement Awards nominations—due Jan. 20
The Division of Research will present eight Research Achievement Awards in 2026—Early Career and Mid-Career honors in Humanities and Social Sciences, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences and Public Health, and Hospital-based Research—each carrying a $5,000 prize. Nominations are invited from deans, department chairs, center directors, colleagues, and self-nominees. See award guidelines. Deadline: Tuesday, January 20, 2026 (noon).
BROWN TECHNOLOGY INNOVATIONS
BTI Fellow Alec McCall: Innovation in action
Brown doctoral candidate Alec McCall is turning lab-bench science into real-world solutions. With support from Brown Technology Innovations and the regional NSF I-Corps program, he’s developing Enzylock — a bacteria-responsive smart wound dressing — aiming to transform biomedical research into impactful care technology.
Whiteboard by The Engine: Supporting faculty entrepreneurs—Jan. 22
The Engine’s one-day Whiteboard program supports faculty exploring Tough Tech entrepreneurship. Through open discussion, peer learning, and networking, researchers can reflect on potential founder roles and connect with others on similar paths. Registration is open until Jan. 15.
RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS
Follow Brown Research on LinkedIn!
The Division of Research has launched a new LinkedIn account to better highlight Brown’s research and strengthen connections across our community. Follow us for updates on research achievements, funding opportunities, job openings, and ways to collaborate.
RESEARCH INTEGRITY
IACUC BIRCH convergence
The BIRCH convergence for the Brown IACUC became effective November 7, making Brown the IACUC of record for RIH protocols. The newly converged committee, composed of both hospital and campus members, streamlines administrative processes and strengthens research support.
IACUC—How funding should be listed in InfoEd
The ACR team is integrating Huron funding into InfoEd. When updating protocols, please confirm that the Proposal/Grant # in InfoEd matches the corresponding Huron Funding Award or Funding Proposal numbers.
IACUC—ARC reminders
IBC approval is required before IACUC approval can be issued. All personnel, including collaborators, must be listed and approved on the protocol with facility access before conducting any animal work. Any changes must be submitted and approved as an amendment before implementation.
New team structure: Research Security and Integrity
Led by Torrey Truszkowski, the new Research Security and Integrity unit will oversee Export Control, Research Security, Researcher Conflict of Interest, and RCR Training. Existing email inboxes: ExportControl@Brown.edu, ResearchSecurity@Brown.edu and COI@Brown.edu will remain in use.
NSF Research Security reminder
Prior to proposal submission, NSF investigators must submit supporting documentation for certain Current and Pending Support and complete Brown’s Research Security Training in Workday Learning.
RESEARCH STRATEGY AND DEVELOPMENT
Now open: Apply for DOR Salomon Research Awards: Due 2/9/26
Richard B. Salomon Faculty Research Awards support excellence in scholarly work for selected faculty research projects deemed to be of exceptional merit. Awards of up to $15,000 are available to all fields, and additional support for larger grants (up to $30,000) will be made available exclusively for faculty in the arts, humanities, and humanistic social sciences. See the 2026 Salomon Guidelines for details.
Limited Submissions resources at Brown
DOR administers limited submission (LS) opportunities at Brown. See our InfoReady portal for opportunities, the curated list of LS in Pivot, as well as our LS Brown Database.
Humanities Research Fund (HRFs) coming soon
For eligible departments/units in the humanities, arts, and social sciences, 2026 HRFs will be formally launched soon. Amounts from 2025 are unchanged and 2026 requests will be due to DOR no earlier than mid-February.
SPONSORED PROJECTS
New Huron Communication Job Aid
Please review the Guide to Huron Communication Methods Job Aid for new guidance on which communication method should be used for different activities, including New Award notification and modification requests.
Advance Accounts update
Advance Accounts may again be created per DOR Guidelines, which may require supporting documentation. Departments should review the guidelines and include all necessary materials when submitting requests.
FEDERAL & AGENCY UPDATES
NIH
NIH updated guidance following government shutdown
Please see the linked Guide Notice NOT-OD-26-012 for information related to NIH’s Reopening of Activities following the recent shutdown.
NIH Research Security Training requirements
Research Security Training will be required effective for proposals submitted on or after May 25, 2026. See Guide Notice NOT-OD-26-017 for details.
NIH Administrative Burden Reduction Effort – Removal of Requirements for Letters of Intent and Unsolicited Applications Requesting $500,000 or More in Direct Costs
Effective Dec. 3, NIH will no longer require advance approvals for proposals requesting $500,000 or more. NIH will also no longer accept Letters of Intent as part of the application process. See Guide Notice NOT-OD-26-019 for details.
NIHs Implementation of Common Forms for Biographical Sketch and Current and Pending (Other) Support for Due Dates on or after Jan. 25, 2026
SciENcv will be required for Biosketch and Other Support in proposals submitted on or after Jan. 25, 2026. NIH expects the updated templates to be available in mid-December, replacing the earlier preview versions. See Guide Notice NOT-OD-26-018 for details.
NSF
NSF updated guidance following government shutdown
NSF has released guidance relating to their resumption of activities.
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