Description
The Institute of Education Sciences (IES) National Center for Special Education Research (NCSER) is soliciting applications for Phase 1 of its Transformative Research in Special Education Grants (ALN 84.324T) for FY 2027. The program seeks bold, high‑risk research that develops transformative solutions to improve pre‑service teacher education systems, aiming to attract, train, and retain high‑quality general and special‑education teachers. Awards may be up to $1.25 million per year for a maximum of three years ($3.75 million total). Projects must include interdisciplinary teams, co‑design partners, a cost‑sharing plan, and required appendices (Engagement & Dissemination Plan, Data Sharing & Management Plan, SEER 27 alignment). Applications are submitted electronically via Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. ET on 11 December 2026; a non‑binding Letter of Intent is encouraged. Review focuses on transformative potential, scientific merit, and alignment with IES standards.
• Target audience: higher‑education institutions, non‑profit, for‑profit, public or private entities capable of rigorous research.
• Funding: up to $3.75 M total, 3‑year project period.
• Required deliverables: project narrative, personnel bios, cost‑sharing plan, co‑design partner strategy, metrics & deliverables plan.
• Evaluation criteria: transformative potential, research approach, metrics, personnel expertise, resources, engagement & dissemination.
• No pre‑bid meeting or site visit; optional Letter of Intent submission.