Research Support
The Institute for Social Transformation advances bold, action-oriented research in the social sciences. We are a model for elevating and expanding research through community-centered funding and support—especially for the development and application stages—which are essential to ensuring that research results in transformative change.
Our work produces research that doesn’t remain trapped within an insular world of academic journals and conferences, but instead connects with communities and makes its way into the hands of decision-makers in government and industry.
Catalyze awards
Our Catalyze research funding awards help faculty in UC Santa Cruz’s Social Sciences Division with establishing, developing, or applying research in the public interest. Find eligibility information, application dates, reporting requirements, and learn how to submit a proposal.
Emerging scholar support
We provide a crucial launchpad for early-career faculty in the social sciences who want to make a positive impact. View the types of grants that are available each year, eligibility requirements, application dates, past projects, and more.
Research coordination
Learn about the services our staff provide to support high-impact research projects with grant proposals, project management, events and workshops, data analysis, report writing, and community engagement.
Support for research centers
Our staff help support the operations of several research centers at UC Santa Cruz. These mission-aligned units are our partners in advancing research and practice related to community-engaged research, labor issues, migration, coastal ecology, and more.
Faculty grantees and fellows
Learn about the research projects we’re currently funding and the amazing faculty members leading change on issues like renewable energy, public health, immigration, housing, and poverty. You can also access information about past awardees.