One of the key objectives of Boundless Possibility, the University’s 2030 strategic plan, is the creation of transdisciplinary centers in areas where we can conduct consequential research that is uniquely Rochester. Early last year, the Office of the Provost, in cooperation with Office of the Vice President of Research, jumpstarted this aspiration with a request for transdisciplinary research proposals. The first phase of this initiative garnered 42 submissions, of which 10 received planning grants to further develop their ideas. After a subsequent phase welcomed additional refined proposals, four proposals were selected for funding consideration.
On Monday, June 9, the finalists presented their proposals. “It’s clear that the spirit of innovation and collaboration is alive and well at Rochester,” says President Sarah Mangelsdorf. “Each project represents ideas and frontiers that have great potential and deserve our attention and support.” With input from external reviewers, University leaders decided on the following awards:
- Soundspace, $4 million over five years
- Extended Reality Research and Application, $2 million over five years
- University of Rochester Resilience Center, $2 million over five years
- Center for Coherence and Quantum Science, $500,000 over two years
The awards culminated a first-of-its-kind initiative to internally fund research based on input from external experts. The process didn’t go unnoticed by a reviewer from Duke University who said, “It was great to see the enthusiasm of so many faculty for this initiative. I can’t overstate what a wonderful idea this is. The courage and commitment of the whole leadership team do something bold right now is inspiring.”
If you have questions about the process or results, please contact the Office of the Vice President of Research.