Research Development

Catalyzing research. Enhancing funding success. Bringing new ideas to life.

The Office of the Dean for Research supports strategic, capacity-building efforts to secure external funding for research initiatives across the University. From introducing new faculty members to the research culture at Princeton to developing large-scale collaborative projects, we take a holistic approach to research development by nurturing the entire research ecosystem at Princeton University. We work in ways that are collaborative and inclusive, and ensure equitable access to opportunities and professional support.

Chart showing three people thinking about a common idea

“The Research Development team in the Office of the Dean for Research was professional, proactive, and exceptional throughout the process. I highly recommend them to any faculty member organizing a large collaborative grant.” – Rodney Priestley, Dean of the Graduate School

Resources and Services

Office of Technology Licensing logo

Strategic Project Planning

We gather competitive intelligence, research the agency’s funding strategies, reach out to program officers, and create a strategic plan to encourage success.

collaborative research proposals

Collaborative Federal Proposals

We help you develop collaborative projects for centers and institutes, training grants, equipment grants, as well as initiatives that advance strategic priorities, such as diversity, equity, and inclusion.

dei resources

DEI Resources

Reach out to us for support in brainstorming and creating a strong diversity, equity, and inclusion plan for your next proposal.

 

faculty research forum icon

Faculty Research Forum

This lunchtime series introduces broad topics relevant to launching an independent career, with an emphasis on building relationships and developing your network.

 

Case Studies: Explore ways to work with our team

Case study: Energy Earthshot Research Center

A PPPL-led team was selected to receive an Energy Earthshot Research Center grant as part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Hydrogen Shot initiative.

Case study: Basic plasma science

DOE funding for a highly interdisciplinary, collaborative team to address the fundamental and technological challenges in low-temperature plasma science.

Case study: NSF Engines development award

A two-year $1M award to lay the groundwork for a multi-state, regional collaboration called Advancing Photonics Technologies.

Case study: BioLEC 2

A  $12.6 million grant to fund research on clean energy and low-carbon manufacturing.

Case study: Chemical and Materials Sciences to Advance Clean Energy and Low-carbon Manufacturing

DOE awards for two rising stars at Princeton to advance clean-energy technologies.

Case study: Mid-Atlantic AFRL Regional Hub

A three-year, $8.9M cooperative agreement from the Air Force Research Laboratory to to accelerate the translation of research into economic impact.

Case study: NSF I-Corps Northeast Hub

A collaborative program to train and mentor researchers in launching entrepreneurial startups based on fundamental research.

Case study: Princeton Center for Complex Materials

A six-year $18M grant to fund research and educational activities focused on quantum materials and biology-inspired engineering.

Meet the Research Development Team

Mary Sym
Senior Associate Director for Research Development
Office Phone

Research development, strategic communications

Currently Recruiting Candidates
Associate Director, Research Development

Strategic proposal development