Cornfield/CSTV Climate Adaptation Coop Research Funding Application

The Cornfield/CSTV Sustainability Coop Research Funding is designed for faculty members in the Department of Systems Design Engineering to hire a UW coop student to conduct research relating broadly to sustainability and ethics in Spring or Fall 2025.

Funding priorities

The priority for coop research projects is enhancements in sustainability.  At a high level, projects may relate to one or more of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.  Projects may aim at social, environmental, or economic outcomes via technological, policy, or educational improvements. Projects emphasizing pedagogical research and course development are encouraged, as well as those that propose innovative research approaches. All applications should emphasize interdisciplinary student research opportunities in areas of public importance and community interest.

Up to six proposals will be selected, to be used in Spring or Fall 2025.

Application Timeline

Applications are due November 30. Results will be announced by December 15. Successful applicant faculty members may be expected to be available to meet with David and Linda Cornfield during a future visit.

Eligibility

Any full-time faculty member in the Department of Systems Design Engineering, including tenure stream or research professors or lecturers, is eligible to submit up to two proposals. Adjuncts are not eligible.

Joint applications with non-Systems Design faculty are eligible and encouraged.

The coop funding can be used to hire any UW student from any Faculty.

Eligible Amount

Each faculty member selected can hire one coop student at standard UW coop rates, commensurate with home Faculty and experience (see coop earnings).

Hiring Process

Faculty recipients will be responsible for engaging with Co-operative Education and WaterlooWorks to advertise the position, interview applicants, and select the successful candidate. They should then complete the departmental short-term and casual appointment request form to initiate the hiring process by departmental administration. All salary amounts are subject to review and approval by the SYDE Administrative Officer.

Evaluation & Criteria

Applications will be evaluated according to the following criteria:

  • Clear research question and plan, viability and appropriateness
  • Innovative methods, data or approaches
  • Student training and outcomes

The review committee will be chaired by Scott Campbell, Director of the Centre for Society, Technology & Values.

Outcome and Reporting Requirements

The coop student is expected to work with the Ojala Communications Professional-in-Residence to produce a short report (1500-2000 words) or recorded video or presentation (15-20 minutes) summarizing their research, methods, and results. This report may be featured on the department homepage and social media.

Submission Instructions

Please complete the below application form by November 30, 2024. Additional questions can be sent to Scott Campbell