The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) will accept applications for its Artist-in-Residence Program starting August 11 with the LOI due August 10. The program allows artists to collaborate with scientists to benefit both science and art, spurring creative thinking and innovation. RIO will select artists for a residency to produce science-based artwork and visuals, display their projects, and participate in a series of public talks to explain their work. We seek projects that bring art and science together to illuminate important questions and big ideas. See our past award recipients.
The program funds art faculty who are drawn to collaboration, interested in interdisciplinary artistic, scientific and technological dialogue, and open to developing new working methods and techniques to share scientific discoveries.
Each award must create an artistic outcome (in-person, virtual, or hybrid experience) to be displayed or performed in the September - December 2027 timeframe. Projects can take myriad forms, such as multimedia performances, theatrical productions, animated film making, immersive installations, sculptures, or music. We welcome diverse interpretations of art and science.
We anticipate that two awards of up to $50,000 will be made in 2026. PIs must be UMN faculty in a creative or artistic discipline which may include (but are not limited to) visual artists, writers, poets, storytellers, dancers, designers, musicians, or video and film artists. PIs must partner with a Co-PI representing a STEM discipline to be eligible.
Deadlines
8/10/26: Letter of intent (LOI) submission due
8/11/26: Application opens
9/08/26: PI submits proposal to approvers (by 11:59 p.m. CT)
9/11/26: Approvers submit proposal to RIO (by 11:59 p.m. CT)
November 2026: Award notification
1/01/27: Award period begins