Now accepting applications for the 2026 RAPID Graduate Scholars Program
The RAPID Facility is excited to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 RAPID Graduate Student Scholars Program! This annual program is designed to expand the next generation of natural hazards and disaster researchers by providing hands-on training, funding, and direct access to RAPID’s state-of-the-art field instrumentation and data collection resources.
Graduate student scholars receive a unique opportunity to develop expertise in collecting, processing, and publishing high-quality data that advance research across engineering, public health, and the social sciences. Through one-on-one training and supported field deployments, participants gain practical skills that strengthen both their research and future careers.
A RAPID Graduate Scholar flies a drone while two RAPID staff stand by.
Program Support and Benefits
Selected scholars will receive:
$3,750 research grant to support their proposed work
Up to $7,500 in waived equipment use fees and RAPID staff support
Optional $1,500 travel stipend for in-person training at the RAPID Facility
Who Can Apply?
The program is open to all graduate students enrolled in accredited U.S. institutions—including those in U.S. territories—whose work relates to natural hazards and disaster research.
Key Dates
Applications open: November 15, 2025
Deadline: January 31, 2026
Advisor letter + mentoring plan requested: Early February 2026
Award notifications: February 2026
Up to three scholars will be selected through an internal review panel.
Program Requirements
All data collected with RAPID support must be archived and published in the DesignSafe Data Depot within six months of collection, with accommodations made for IRB requirements. Fieldwork must be completed by June 30, 2026, to ensure preliminary data processing is finalized by September 30, 2026.
How to Apply
Graduate students interested in applying should review the full proposal guidelines on the application. For questions, please contact the RAPID team at uwrapid@uw.edu.
We look forward to supporting a new cohort of scholars as they advance the field of natural hazards and disaster research!