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Launch of SAI Fellows Program

  • January 19, 2019
  • Posted by: Team SAi
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We believe in supporting innovative ideas in science education, outreach, or communication that address issues of access in science particularly in underserved areas and/or underrepresented populations around the world. In order to provide additional support for individuals, SAI has launched the SAI Fellows Program through the generosity of individual donors to enable the partial support of the Fellows’ individual projects. SAI hopes the program will serve as a launching point for  new ideas. 

WHAT THE PROGRAM LOOKS FOR:

  1. Passion for Science – We look for individuals that are passionate about science.
  2. Problem Focused Proposals– We are looking for proposals that clearly articulate the problem of interest and have a well thought out plan for solving the problem.  
  3. Data Driven Ideas – We are looking for projects that have a clear plan to assessing the impact of their projects.
  4. Innovation-driven – We are looking for people who are able to challenge the status quo and not afraid to think outside the box in trying out new ideas.

SOME QUESTIONS FOR APPLICANTS TO THINK ABOUT:

  1. Describe the problem or community need that your project addresses.
  2. Describe what other organizations are doing to address this problem. 
  3. Describe the project’s mission and objectives and how they will be met.
  4. What is unique and innovative about your proposal?
  5. Provide a brief history of the project. What makes you the ideal person/team to lead this project?
  6. Who will benefit from this solution? (what specific population of individuals) Where?
  7. Provide an analysis of the project’s risks and limitations, including how these factors will be addressed or minimized.
  8. Describe the project timeline. What is your sustainability plan?
  9. Please describe how impact will be assessed. How will you know you are successful? 

BENEFITS TO THE FELLOWS:

  1. Access to the SAI community of advisors to give you feedback on your project.
  2. Get access to the GrantStation online database to search for tools and grants to secure other funding for your project.
  3. Make new connections with SAI’s wider member network.
  4. Access to some SAI funding (up to $100) to assist in the execution of your project/event.

APPLICATION PROCESS

  • Online Application: The application is online and includes several questions about the applicant and the project proposal.
  • Review: A SAI committee of both internal and external members will review all applications.
  • Interviews: Some of the applicants will be invited to participate in an interview via phone or Skype.
  • Notification: All applicants will be notified within 3-4 weeks after submission.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

  • Fellow appointments are unpaid and will last for 3, 6 or 12 months with the option to extend. Fellows must submit a summary report at the conclusion of the project no later than 2-weeks after the end of the project/event launch.
  • Depending on progress, some of the Fellows may be invited to join SAI.
  • Fellows are expected to keep regular communication (at-least weekly) on their progress during the appointment.