Bold Challenges is a new initiative, led by the Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR), that integrates social and technical sciences from across the University of Michigan to address societal challenges that intersect equity, health, infrastructure and sustainability. In an effort to develop and refine solutions to the six research challenges below, OVPR designed a four-phase research accelerator program that will support up to 12 interdisciplinary teams during year one of the initiative. The research accelerator will leverage, connect and supplement existing programs across U-M to generate momentum and provide continuity for teams as they develop their research agendas and seek external support. The six research challenge areas include:
- Resilient, equitable and carbon-neutral physical infrastructure
- Sustainable and equitable solutions for the housing crisis
- Healthy adaptation to climate change
- Universal access to healthy water
- Smart health care systems for equitable access
- Better health outcomes through better built environments
In the Incubation phase, a cohort of established teams working in one of the six research challenge areas will participate in a semester-long value creation forum. This workshop will help maturing teams develop and articulate the value and potential impact of their shared vision toward creating compelling narratives for funders, policymakers, thought leaders, and other external stakeholders.
Deadline for application: November 17, 2021