Oak Ridge Associated Universities has awarded competitive research grants totaling $175,000 to 35 junior faculty from ORAU member institutions. The annual grants are made through the Ralph E. Powe Junior Faculty Enhancement Awards program that provides funds to enrich the research and professional growth of young faculty.

The recipients, each of whom is in the first two years of a tenure track position, will receive $5,000 from ORAU for the 2014-2015 academic year to enhance their research during the early stages of their career. Additionally, each recipient’s institution will match the ORAU award with an additional $5,000, making the total grant worth $10,000 for each winner. Winners may use the grants to purchase equipment, continue research or travel to professional meetings and conferences.

Since the program’s inception in 1991, ORAU has awarded more than 555 grants totaling more than $2.775 million. Including the matching funds from member institutions, ORAU has facilitated grants worth more than $5.55 million.

“Providing funding to faculty members early in their careers expands their opportunities to build collaborations while refining their interests.” said Arlene Garrison, ORAU vice president. “ORAU is pleased that we were able to increase the number of grants this year to an exceptional group of young faculty members.” [Read more…]