Overview

Purpose: The College's Research Intensive Award (RIA) relieves faculty members of teaching their required organized classes for one long semester to devote their attention to a research project.

Effective: This revised policy, implemented September 1, 2022, is currently in effect and supersedes previous College Research Fellowships policies.

COLA Research Intensive Awards (RIA) Policy

I. Eligibility

COLA tenured and tenure-track faculty are eligible to receive an RIA.
RIA's are pre-awarded and provided to faculty as part of hiring contracts, retention offers, or other Dean's Office commitments.

COLA Research Intensive Awards (RIA) Guidelines

Please review the following guidelines and steps to ensure a smooth and complete submission process.

I. Before Applying

Faculty should consult with their Department Chair to confirm their intent to take their RIA, identify the preferred semester, and discuss research plans. Please work with your department chair to ensure that taking a RIA will not result in cancellation of enrolled courses or otherwise negatively impact course offerings.

II. To Apply

Faculty must formally apply for the RIA to confirm the semester they intend to use the award.
Applications must be submitted by March 1st in the year prior to the intended RIA semester (i.e. submit by March 1, 2026 for RIAs planned during academic year 2026-27). Late applications may not be considered.

III. Application Details

Data needed for the online application form includes:

Name
UT-EID
Preferred semester for RIA
Research Proposal Title
Confirmation of department chair’s approval

Files to submit with your application form include*:

Current CV
2-3 page research statement outlining the research project and a description of how this fits into your research trajectory
RIA pre-approval letter or documentation showing RIA pre-approval (i.e. offer letter, email from the dean)
Department chair’s approval to take RIA (i.e. email, letter)

*Please make sure identifying information is included on all files (your full name and UT-EID).

Application form:

Applications and all materials must be submitted in one session via Qualtrics.

For questions, contact: Jennifer Nailos at la-academic@austin.utexas.edu.