NM SPARK Scholars Program – Funding Opportunity

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Dear UNM Researchers, 
The Office of the Vice President for Research is pleased to announce the launch of the NM SPARK Scholars Program (Scholars Pursuing Advancement, Research, and Knowledge), which supports UNM assistant and associate professors in advancing their research, scholarship, and creative work in alignment with UNM 2040 strategic priorities. This new WeR1 program is supported by ADVANCE at UNM, the Office of the Vice President for Research, and the Office of Academic Affairs; it includes two award tracks:
SPARK Catalyst Grants, providing up to $10,000 in one‑year seed funding for early-career faculty to stimulate new research directions, launch new collaborations, or respond to shifting funding opportunities; and
SPARK Innovators, a three‑year award of $5,000 per year plus an honorary title for mid‑career associate professors pursuing significant research expansion or redirection with broad institutional or community impact.
All areas of research, scholarship, and creative activity are eligible, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, career advancement, and positioning projects for future external funding or high‑impact outcomes. Proposals must be submitted by 11:59pm on May 19, 2026 through InfoReady. 
See the attached call for applications for more information and email the Faculty Research Development Office at frdo@unm.edu with questions.