The Racial Democracy, Crime and Justice Network is now accepting applications for its 2026 Summer Research Institute: Broadening Participation & Perspectives.
Application materials are due by 5:00 p.m. EST February 20, 2026. For more details, check out the PDF version or related google form (link) of the application.
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The Racial Democracy, Crime and Justice Network’s Summer Research Institute (SRI) is designed to promote scholarly success and career advancement among untenured faculty from underrepresented groups working in areas of crime and criminal justice. Faculty pursuing tenure in research-intensive institutions, academics transitioning from teaching to research institutions, and faculty members carrying out research in teaching contexts are encouraged to apply for the three-week intensive institute. The first week will follow a virtual program format and the next two weeks will be in-person at the University of Maryland (UMD), College Park. Transportation, lodging, meals, and office space will be provided to each fellow. During the Institute, each Fellow will complete the project proposed in this application (either a research paper, grant proposal, or book/chapters) in preparation for submission for publication or agency funding review. The SRI will provide support to complete the project including senior faculty mentorship, networking opportunities, professional development workshops, and a culminating, two-day symposium.
The SRI is a three-week intensive program aimed to provide Fellows a unique opportunity to concentrate their time and effort towards their project and professionalization activities including building their cohort comradery. As such, SRI fellows are expected to prioritize their time to meet the demands of the SRI including being in person for the last two weeks of the SRI program, attending all meetings and activities for the duration of the Institute, as contributing members of the Summer Research Institute’s intellectual community. The Summer Research Institute is organized by Professors Rod K. Brunson (UMD-College Park) and María B. Vélez (UMD-College Park).
