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Student Research Grant

Welcome

The Student Research Grant Committee (SRGC) accepts and reviews applications for funding to support students conducting independent research while enrolled at MSSU. Funding is available across all disciplines, including Arts, Music, Theater, English, Business, Communications, Criminal Justice, Psychology, Nursing, Kinesiology, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and more.

The main criterion for funding is that students conduct independent research and present their findings in a public venue.

Types of Grants


Student Research Grant

  • Intended for research-related costs, including:

    • Supplies and equipment
    • Postage and printing
    • Software and other direct research costs
    • Travel to research sites outside of Joplin
  • Notes:

    • Any equipment, non-consumable supplies, or software purchased with grant funds becomes property of MSSU and is returned to the sponsoring department.
    • Students must present their research at the Student Research Symposium in the spring semester.
    • Group projects are allowed, but funding is awarded per project, not per individual.

  • Application Sections:

    • Description of research (purpose, abstract, methods, data analysis plan, benefits, prior funding)
    • Projected timetable
    • Itemized budget
    • Use of requested funds

Student Research Grant Form

Student Travel Grant

  • Intended for travel costs associated with attending conferences or events related to the student’s field.
  • Priority is given to travel for research presentations (oral or poster).
  • Travel expenses must follow MSSU guidelines for mileage, food, and lodging. Contact the Business Office for details.
  • Application Sections:
    • Purpose and benefits of travel
    • Itemized budget
    • Type of travel
    • Statement of prior funding

Student Travel Grant Form


Funding Rules

  • Maximum $500 per grant
  • Students may receive one grant per academic year
  • Salaries or wages are not funded

Application Process

  1. Students begin by consulting a faculty member about their project or travel.
  2. If the grant involves human subjects, prior approval from the Institutional Review Board (IRB) is required.
  3. If the grant involves vertebrate animals, prior approval from the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) is required.
  4. Students complete the appropriate grant application and submit it electronically to the committee chair, Dr. Amy Gates.
  5. The SRGC reviews the application, and upon approval by the Vice President of Academic Affairs, the student is notified and receives an award letter.
  6. Approved students receive instructions and forms for reimbursement of expenses.
  7. Denied applications: applicants and faculty advisors are notified. Denied applicants may reapply the following semester.

Deadlines

  • Fall semester: October 1
  • Spring semester: February 15

Contact Us

Dr. Tonya Heavin
Student Research Grant Committee Chair
heavin-t@mssu.edu