The Division of Diversity and Engagement, the Office of the Provost and the Office of Research and Engagement are teaming up to offer the Research Development Academy to support the development of tenure-track faculty, who have yet to be tenured, from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, sex, gender, and LGBTQ+ populations, who have the potential to contribute to the University of Tennessee’s discovery mission; advance the University Tennessee’s values of diversity, equity, and inclusion; and retain underrepresented faculty by providing guidance and support to refine and further their research agenda in ways that align with promotion and tenure guidelines.

The Research Development Academy (RDA) is a year-long program, with opportunities to continue engagement after program completion. It offers support for research, one-on-one and group coaching sessions, mentoring, community building opportunities, professional development sessions, engagement with upper administration, and participation in the National Center for Faculty Development and Diversity’s Faculty Success Program.

Please visit our webpage to learn more about the program, application process, and schedule. Please be sure to share this information with all tenure-seeking faculty in your units.

Applications are due on April 23 and the program starts in August.