Research Development Academy (RDA) is designed to support tenure-track faculty from historically underrepresented backgrounds who contribute to the University of Tennessee’s discovery mission and advance our land-grant mission. The initiative focuses on empowering diverse tenure-track faculty to advance their own scholarly agenda in research, scholarship, and/or creative activities in a collegial environment with supportive guidance. The Academy provides a positive environment for faculty to network with each other, and secure resources they need to move their research agenda forward in a focused way.

RDA is a collaboration between the Division of Access and Engagement, and the Office of Research, Innovation, and Economic Development. RDA Fellows come from across university disciplines and represent a wide range of interests and goals.

Applications are now open for the 2025-2026 cohort. Faculty who meet the eligibility requirements and are interested in applying to the program should complete an online application by February 21, 2025. Click here to learn more about Research Development Academy and access the application.