General Events

The Interdisciplinary Health Sciences Institute (IHSI) is now accepting nominations for the 2026-27 Emerging Research Leaders Academy (ERLA). The program provides vital leadership and team science training that will help mid-career faculty pursue large, multi-PI grants, lead campus research initiatives, enhance their own research programs, and ultimately position Illinois for research excellence.

Throughout the Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 semesters, a series of monthly, in-person workshops will support development of leadership and management skills and encourage the application of those skills to research. Participants must attend the orientation and at least five of the six workshops, which will include presentations and an interactive discussion or activity.

• Sept. 9 | Orientation
• Oct. 14 | Leading and Managing Teams
• Nov. 11 | Building Diverse and Inclusive Teams
• Jan. 13 | Strategic Leadership and Management
• Feb. 10 | Mentoring
• Mar. 10 | Effective Research Communication
• Apr. 14 | Presentation of Action Plans and Graduation

Each participant will develop a 5-year action plan and receive recognition as an Emerging Research Leadership Scholar upon completion of the program.

We are seeking associate professors and newly promoted full professors who have not yet led a large, multi-PI grant or campus initiative. Non-tenure track faculty and research scientists with a record of independent funding as single-PIs who are now looking to lead larger efforts will also be fully considered for the cohort. A financial commitment of $500 from the department of each person selected is required to participate in the program. This fee will help cover program expenses and materials.

Participants must be nominated by a department head, dean, or director before applying. Immediately following their nomination, nominees will receive an email with a unique link to apply. Nominations are due May 29, 2026, and applications are due June 8, 2026.

More about the Emerging Research Leaders Academy