The University of Nebraska System, under the will of Mabel Elizabeth Kelly, holds funds to honor her husband Fred J. Kelly to be used to foster research looking to the improvement of teaching at the university.
The NU System is accepting proposals that support Odyssey to the Extraordinary priorities of inspiring all future learners, transforming the learning environment, and/or curriculum innovation and alignment.
The 2026 funding opportunity is designed to facilitate research on integrating AI in courses — spanning effectiveness, ethics, pedagogy, and student experience.
Awards will be for up to $75,000 total for two or three years, with an expectation that the campus, college, and/or department provide an additional $25,000 for a total of $100,000. Proposals impacting larger numbers of students will be given priority.
Proposals must request funds for research that hopes to improve teaching by making significant, transformative changes to the design, pedagogy, learning materials, or special supports associated with existing courses. The proposed project may involve one faculty member or a team; Co-PIs may be from the same campus or skills might be leveraged by using expertise from faculty on other campuses. No funding can be awarded to those outside the NU System. If the PI does not have research experience, it is highly recommended an experienced Co-PI or research mentor be included in the proposal. Proposals related to general education or discipline-based courses will be considered.
Applications are due via NuRamp by 5 p.m. on Oct. 31.
More details at: https://go.unl.edu/kellyfunds