Gallatin Co-Lab (Collaboration Lab) Grant Proposal

Overview

NYU Gallatin invites applications for the Gallatin Co-Lab (Collaboration Lab) Grant, an experimental program designed to support the fusion of student learning and faculty research. The Co-Lab provides resources and a community of practice for faculty interested in using the classroom as a vehicle for the articulation of new research and creative projects. The Co-Lab supports experimental pedagogies, undergraduate research, experiential learning, and collaborations between Gallatin faculty, broader NYU, and external organizations.

Proposal Guidelines

Faculty are invited to submit proposals for inventive courses to begin in AY 2025-26 that center new research and involve students as collaborators in its creation. Meeting patterns and enrollment caps may be requested outside of normal parameters if appropriate and will be reviewed for feasibility.

Funds not to exceed $25,000 are available to support course development and execution. Funds can be used, for example, to support undergraduate or graduate project assistants, summer course development stipend for faculty, specialty supplies/ materials, technology or software, class trips, guest lecturers, space rentals, teaching resources, final project/event expenses. Courses taught as part of the Co-Lab initiative form part of faculty members’ normal course load. 

While all project models will receive equal consideration, faculty may wish to propose a model in which one semester or one year is dedicated to course development, one semester to teaching the Co-Lab course, and a further semester to outcomes. 

Gallatin will work with grantees to realize their vision for a Co-Lab, within reasonable parameters. To ensure feasibility, faculty may wish to consult with the following:

• Curriculum Committee Chair Hallie Franks (hmf2@nyu.edu) about requirements for credit bearing courses.
• Senior Director of Experiential Learning Janet Gomez (jeg387@nyu.edu) for project proposals with an experiential learning component.
• NYU Director of Undergraduate Research Ethan Youngermann (ewy200@nyu.edu) on University-level support for undergraduate research.

Eligibility Criteria

All full-time Gallatin faculty are eligible to apply for a Co-Lab Grant. Co-teaching proposals are also eligible.

It is expected that successful applicants will participate in the selection of future Co-Lab participants. Grant awardees will also be asked to submit a short report on their activities upon the conclusion of the award period.

Selection Criteria

Successful proposals will:

• Articulate a course model in which research and teaching are mutually supportive.
• Describe how students will participate in proposed research projects, and the benefits for student learning at the undergraduate or graduate level.
• Specify project outcomes and milestones and their impact on students.
• Provide a realistic budget that leverages the funding available.
• Have the potential to become sustainable.

Application Process 

For projects beginning in AY25-26, submit the following materials by no later than December 2, 2024. Applicants will be notified no later than Feb 1, 2025. Applications should include:

• Project proposal of no more than 1200 words, including a course description and explanation of how the proposed course integrates faculty research and student learning in a team-taught, interdisciplinary framework.
• Budget outline. Please be as specific and realistic as possible. 
• Short CV for faculty member(s)
• If applicable, a statement of support from any external organizations identified as part of the project.

All Co-Lab courses will eventually undergo Gallatin Curriculum Committee review independently of selection, and must meet Curriculum Committee requirements for new course proposals.