Applicants are invited to propose a new project aligned with the program’s research themes or emerging themes relevant to the program. We particularly encourage collaborative proposals that span multiple disciplines, and proposals that involve partners from the Bridging Divides university network.
Applicants who hold funds from Bridging Divides from the University of Alberta are also welcome to apply to either extend their current work or propose a new theme. A one page long progress report must be attached to demonstrate meaningful progress and achievement of deliverables in their current project(s).
Value: Each proposal can request a research amount up to $100,000.
Duration: 2 years with possibility of 1 year non-monetary extension.
Application deadline: April 17, 2026
Results announced: May 2026
All faculty members (tenured or tenure-track) at the University of Alberta are eligible to apply as primary applicants. Applicants must collaborate with existing member(s) of the Bridging Divides team at any of the four partner institutions.
Work in the Bridging Divides program is structured into four thematic research streams, each focusing on a specific area of migrant integration. We welcome applications for all four research themes or a new, emerging theme.
Applicants may also propose research that explores an emerging theme that does not fit under the four research themes, but broadly aligns with the Bridging Divides Program.
Emerging themes can synthesize any of the existing research themes, or propose an “emerging theme” that relates to migrant integration. Applicants will be asked to expand on the emerging theme in the application.
We welcome proposals that focus on Advanced Digital Technologies (ADT) or digital communication tools as factors influencing migrant integration, as well as proposals that use ADT for data generation, analysis, and/or knowledge dissemination.
Advanced Digital Technologies (ADT) refer to tools, systems, and platforms that leverage technological innovations in computing, data processing, and automation. Examples include Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Big Data analytics.
Digital communication tools are software, platforms, or systems that facilitate real-time or asynchronous communication, enabling people to exchange information, collaborate, and interact over digital networks. Examples include social media, instant messaging and chat applications, and platforms that support virtual meetings, webinars, and collaborative workspaces.
I need to submit my application and budget to RAS before applying?
No. Everything will be set up internally by the Bridging Divides U of A team.
Can my research assistants be recent graduates?
While the funds will not prohibit you from hiring recent graduates or students from other institutions, we would prefer for the funding to be used to provide positions for U of A students, currently registered.
Do proposals have to involve an existing Bridging Divides team member?
No. Applications are open to all researchers at the University of Alberta.
Are trainees allowed to be co-PIs?
We would like the co-PI to be a tenure-track faculty member at the U of A.
Where do I submit references and additional documentation?
You can attach any additional relevant documentation under “Additional documentation” on the application form.
Do I need permission from Bridging Divides to hire a postdoctoral fellow?
No, you don't. You can advertise and hire as long as you have funding to support the PDF.
Does my application need to go through Researcher Homepage for RAS approvals?
No it does not. The application will go directly through U of A Bridging Divides.
Is the funding subject to ICRs
No it is not.