Organisation Name:

Russell Sage Foundation (RSF)

Application Deadline:

21 October 2026

About Organisation

The Russell Sage Foundation (RSF) is a leading American research foundation dedicated to improving the understanding of social, economic, and behavioral issues through high-quality social science research. It funds investigator-led studies that generate evidence to address public policy challenges and strengthen academic knowledge. The Foundation supports scholars at different stages of their careers while encouraging diversity, inclusion, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Through the Sheldon Danziger Pipeline Grant Program 2026, RSF invests in the professional development of early-career researchers by combining research funding with expert mentorship, helping scholars produce impactful research and build successful academic careers.

About the Grant

The Sheldon Danziger Pipeline Grant Program 2026 supports early-career scholars conducting investigator-led research aligned with the Russell Sage Foundation’s research priorities. The programme offers grants of up to USD 65,000 to cover salary support and eligible research expenses while pairing each recipient with an experienced mentor. The mentorship component helps researchers refine their projects, strengthen academic skills, and expand future funding opportunities. Originally launched in 2020 and renamed in 2025, the programme promotes disciplinary diversity, encourages participation from underrepresented scholars, and strengthens research capacity at under-resourced universities through high-quality social science research.

Who can Apply?

Applications are open to Assistant Professors, Adjunct Assistant Professors, and Lecturers who meet the programme’s eligibility requirements. Applicants must not have previously received an RSF research grant, excluding Dissertation Research Grants. There are no nationality or institutional location restrictions, making the programme accessible to eligible scholars worldwide. Applications from researchers who are underrepresented in the social sciences or employed at under-resourced universities are strongly encouraged. Postdoctoral fellows cannot serve as Principal Investigators but may participate as research assistants. Full Professors and Associate Professors may join as Co-Principal Investigators but are not eligible for salary or conference travel support.

How to Apply?

Review the Russell Sage Foundation’s research priorities and confirm your eligibility before preparing an investigator-led research proposal. Develop a realistic budget covering salary support and research expenses, ensuring compliance with programme guidelines. Submit the completed application before 21 October 2026. Successful applicants will be paired with experienced mentors who provide guidance throughout the research project and support long-term academic career development.