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Research Proposal Basics

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    For faculty, staff, and students new to finding, writing, and submitting proposals, this page offers guidance and instruction in the creation of research proposals at Tennessee Tech.

    The information below provides a roadmap for a step by step understanding of the process.

    For further guidance, and any questions, please contact the Office of Research.

    Derryberry Hall
    Campus Box 5164
    Cookeville, TN 38505
    Phone: (931) 372-3374
    Fax: (931) 372-6374 
    Email:  research@tntech.edu
    Office Hours:  8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

    Links to Proposal Building

    • Grants and Funding
      Definition of a Sponsored Grant or Contract

         Sponsored grants and contracts have a statement of work to be implemented in exchange for something of value, such as data, results, intellectual property, and/or a mandatory report. Criteria, but not limited to:  

        • Any funding provided by U. S. Government agencies at the federal, state, or local level in support of Tennessee Tech activities is treated as sponsored grant or contract funding. Government funds are not treated as gifts. 
        • In general, a sponsored grant or contract has one or more of the following characteristics: restrictions on date use imposed by the sponsor; sponsor right to audit the project, program or financial records; and a penalty for non-performance. 
        • Financial accountability for sponsored projects typically involves detailed line-item expense reporting, effort reports, etc., and the projects are often subject to financial audit.  
        • Involves a verbal or written agreement specifying terms and conditions, a specific scope of work, and possibly reporting requirements
        • Includes release of informtion restrictions, such as the delay in publishing research results, confidentiality or approval to release information.

      Find Funding

       GrantForward is a search engine dedicated to helping institutions and individuals find grants to fund their research.

        • GrantForward’s powerful search system helps to reduce the burden of searching for grants with advanced search filters and specialized search features.
        • GrantForward researcher profiles allow researchers to highlight their research achievements and interests to receive personalized grant recommendations that match their research needs.
    • Creating a Proposal

      Identifying funding for a project is only the first step in a long, and often complicated process. From proposal development, to submission, to award and beyond, the Office of Sponsored Programs can assist with every step. Visit our RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT page for proposal creation steps, forms, and information.

      Steps to Writing a Strong Proposal

      • Choose the Right Topic: Match the topic with your expertise and desire to find solutions. 
      • Formulate a Well-Constructed Research Question: The question should be interesting, serve a purpose, and open innovative areas of research.
      • Research the Topic: Conduct a thorough review of the need to ensure the proposal is grounded in existing knowledge and offers a solution.
      • Organize and Write: Make sure the proposal tells a coherent story. Each section should build on the previous one to make a compelling case for why your project should be funded.

       

      PROPOSAL ASSISTANCE

      Writing a grant proposal requires a balance of creativity,  an attention to detail, and strategic thinking. Focus on creating a clear, compelling story that lays the foundation for a successful research project.

    RETURN TO MAIN RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT PAGE

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