This program supports research partnerships that empower those who have historically been the subjects of anthropological research, rather than researchers themselves. Designed in alliance with individuals who have borne the impact of marginalization, these partnerships bring together scholars and their interlocutors in an effort to expand anthropological knowledge, combat inequality, and help communities flourish. The program supports projects that will make a significant contribution to anthropological conversations through collaboration and engagement.
Anthropological research involves forging ethical relationships. Researchers must acknowledge the contributions of interlocutors and compensate them appropriately for their labor and time. Projects funded by Engaged Research Grants go even further. Not only are interlocutors participants in the research, but they have an active role in determining the problems explored. This grant program targets projects that show greater potential when undertaken as a partnership, beginning with the formulation of research questions and extending to data gathering, skill sharing, scholarly communication, and public mobilization. Engaged research occurs in a broad range of settings, including communities, courtrooms, government offices, and laboratories. It results in findings that are meaningful and potentially transformative for research participants and others with a stake in the collaboration. Through this program, the Foundation seeks to demonstrate how engagement can foster innovation and further anthropological knowledge.
Deadline: August 1.
This program is open to applicant teams without regard to nationality or institutional or departmental affiliation. In addition to scholars at varying levels of training in anthropology and related disciplines (including faculty members, postdoctoral fellows, and doctoral students), applicant teams must include individuals with lived experiences in the places where research is underway. At least one of the team members must have a doctorate or currently be enrolled in a doctoral degree program in anthropology or a related field.
Applicants enrolled in doctoral programs must apply jointly with an academic mentor. The mentor should be the dissertation supervisor or other individual qualified to provide scholarly supervision. Note that the Foundation will not release grant funds to an applicant who has not successfully completed all requirements for their doctoral degree other than the dissertation/thesis. Students may apply before completing these requirements; however, they must have firm plans to fulfill them before the start date listed on the application form.
The maximum Engaged Research Grant is $25,000. Grants are nonrenewable. There is no limit to the duration of the grant, and applicants may request funding to cover distinct research phases (for example, two summers) if this is part of the research design. Wenner-Gren awards do not include funds to cover institutional overhead or any fees related to the administration of our grants and fellowships.