A new five-year initiative to establish dynamic interdisciplinary research centers and institutes across the University of Michigan aims to expand the university’s leadership in areas where new, innovative work will have significant social and economic impact.
The launch of Vision 2034 Impact Institutes will increase U-M’s research competitiveness, contributions to the public and national and global visibility in areas integral to the university’s strategic vision.
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The program introduces a structured framework using a lifecycle model approach. New institutes will form with Seed Stage support designed to help develop promising ideas into dynamic centers with the potential to grow and scale. In the first two years, approximately 20 Seed Stage institutes will receive up to $200,000 in funding.
Up to five successful Seed Stage institutes will advance to the Venture Stage, where they will receive additional support to grow and attract larger external funding opportunities. This stage targets institutes demonstrating potential for national or global leadership in key areas of public impact. During the Venture Stage, as many as five institutes will receive $500,000 annually for three years.
“Interdisciplinary research centers and institutes offer universities a powerful means to tackle large-scale challenges and drive transformative outcomes,” said Arthur Lupia, interim vice president for research and innovation. “By combining diverse expertise and resources, these institutes enable us to achieve breakthroughs that wouldn’t be possible in isolation.
“Our Vision 2034 Impact Institutes will advance this approach, propelling the University of Michigan to the forefront of innovation and discovery.”
Faculty across all U-M campuses who qualify as principal investigators on federal awards are eligible to participate. Seed Stage applications for the first year will open in July and are due Sept. 1.
“With the launch of our Vision 2034 Impact Institutes, we are harnessing the spirit of innovation and collaboration that defines the University of Michigan,” said President Santa J. Ono. “These institutes will serve as a catalyst for interdisciplinary research, driving breakthroughs that address humanity’s most pressing challenges.
“Together, we’ll forge new paths in education, health, civic engagement and sustainability, opening new horizons and creating a bright new future of discoveries and opportunities.”
