CFAs: The Mary Beth Ruskai Research Fund for Women (US)

Deadline: 10-Apr-2026

The EDGE Program is offering the Mary Beth Ruskai Research Fund to support women in the mathematical sciences in advancing their research careers through travel, collaboration, or other research-related activities. This grant reflects Beth Ruskai’s commitment to supporting women and interdisciplinary research, especially for those not well-established or based outside major research universities.

Key Details

• Grant Amount: $5,000

• Eligible Uses:

  • Travel for research collaboration or conferences

  • Participation in workshops fostering strong research interaction

  • Other research-related expenses that directly support research activities

• Not Permitted: Teaching buyouts, salary supplements

• Tax Considerations: Funds paid directly to the grantee are taxable; reimbursement or institutional administration via EDGE is possible

Eligibility

• Gender: Women only

• Field: Mathematical sciences and related areas (e.g., theoretical physics, physical chemistry, engineering, computer science, quantum information theory)

• Institution: Priority to women not at major research universities; applicants without institutional travel/research funds are prioritized

• Geography: United States-based applicants only

• Exclusions: Current graduate students; previous recipients within the past five years

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

1. Rationale for Funding (1–2 pages) including conference details and anticipated costs if applicable

2. Research Description (up to 2 pages, excluding citations)

3. Curriculum Vitae (up to 2 pages)

4. Budget Outline (up to 1 page)

5. Current and Pending Funding Support

Reporting

Grant recipients must submit a narrative report within 60 days after the one-year grant period describing outcomes and use of funds.

Deadline

• Application Due: April 10, 2026

Conclusion

The Mary Beth Ruskai Research Fund offers a valuable opportunity for women in mathematics and related disciplines to advance their research careers through collaborative and travel-based activities. By prioritizing those with limited institutional resources or outside major research universities, the grant aims to promote equity and career development for women in STEM fields, helping them build networks, participate in workshops, and gain research visibility.

For more information, visit The EDGE Program.