The American Genetic Association is excited to announce a funding opportunity for Researcher Community Engagement (RCE). RCE Award grants may be used to provide financial support for community engagement activities that fall outside typical research funding, including extended stays, cultural participation, gift-giving (cash gifts not allowed), and other relationship-building expenses.

Overview
Building meaningful relationships between scientists and the communities connected to their research is essential for trust, ethical research practice, and long-term collaboration. Research shows that distrust in science often stems from perceived institutional authority and inaccessible expertise (Yearly, 2000). In biodiversity genomics and related fields, strong partnerships with local and Indigenous communities are now recognized as critical—but are rarely provided dedicated funding sources through traditional research grants.
The Award for Researcher Community Engagement is a pilot program from the AGA to support the relational work that enables responsible science and development of trust in the broader scientific enterprise. Funding covers activities that strengthen trust, foster communication, and encourage more co-created understanding between researchers and local (defined as rural and under-resourced urban communities) and/or Indigenous communities.
Eligible Applicants
AGA members at any career stage working in biological, ecological, or genomic sciences who demonstrate a commitment to ethical, culturally respectful engagement with a specific community.
Award Details
Learn more about the award and application process at: https://www.theaga.org/rce-awards-form
Applications are due June 30, 2026

(to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to
evoldir@evoldir.net)