Seed Grants Available for Graduate Students: Research and Creative Activities Promoting Excellence in Research for Kentucky (PERK)
Promoting Excellence in Research for Kentucky (PERK) Graduate Student Seed Grants Now Available
The University of Kentucky is committed to Advancing Kentucky Together and that includes supporting the next generation of scholars and creators. Through the Promoting Excellence in Research for Kentucky (PERK) program, starter grants are now available for currently enrolled graduate students to fund research and creative project6s that advance the Commonwealth.
Awards: One-time grants of up to $3,000 are available to support your research or creative activity. Funds may be used for participant incentives, software, archive access, travel, lab equipment, professional editing services or research assistance. Applicants must serve as the principal investigator (primary project lead).
Application Requirements
Submit the following material to gsdean@uky.edu by Friday, Nov. 7:
- Project title
- Abstract (250 words or less)
- Anticipated project timeline
- Collaborators (e.g., other students, faculty, community partners)
- Faculty advisor's name and letter of support
- Rationale for how this aligns with Advancing Kentucky
- Student CV
- Proposed budget and disclosure of any other project funding
Expectations of Grant Recipients
- End-of-year Receptions: Share your work at the annual research showcase, even if it’s still in progress.
- Final Report: Submit a final report at the conclusion of your project (a template will be provided).
- Scholarly Dissemination: Present your findings at a conference or submit to a journal as the primary presenter or first author.
This program is a meaningful opportunity to fuel your ideas, elevate your research and make an impact throughout the Commonwealth.