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Faculty Development, Research

How to Write Winning Grant Proposals

A three-part seminar for faculty presented by Dr. John Robertson of Grant Writers’ Seminars & Workshops

Learn the practical, conceptual, and rhetorical aspects of writing competitive grant proposals in this seminar presented by Dr. John Robertson of Grant Writers’ Seminars & Workshops. This three-part seminar will focus on:

  • core principles of effective grant writing
  • writing for the National Science Foundation (NSF)
  • writing for the National Institutes of Mental Health

Participants will attend the core principles component, and can choose to attend either or both the NSF and/or NIH sessions. Regardless of the target agency, participants are taught to write effectively, with special attention given to the "extra" things that can make a difference in funding of a proposal. 

Who should attend?

This seminar is appropriate for postdoctoral scholars and junior through senior faculty members. Experienced faculty may use the seminar as an overall refresher, for new ideas on gaining a competitive edge, and/or for strategies in how to mentor others in proposal writing. Postdoctoral scholars and junior faculty may use the seminar as a primer in proposal writing that will help demystify the components of a proposal and the process of writing one strategically.

The expectation is that any faculty whose work could be funded through NSF or NIH but who have not yet received funding from these agencies will attend this seminar.  Faculty who have already been successful in obtaining NSF and/or NIH funding are also welcome to attend to further enhance their grant writing skills.  The NIH Career Development Award sessions is appropriate for graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and early career faculty. 

Dates & Times

Part 1: Effective Grant Writing: Thursday, March 19, 2026, 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (CDT)  

Part 2a: Writing for the NIH: Thursday, March 19, 2026, 1:00 pm – 4:30 p.m. (CDT) 

Part 2b: Writing for the NSF: Friday, March 20, 2026, 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (CDT) 

Part 2c:  Writing for an NIH Career Development Award, Friday, March 20, 2026, 1:00 pm – 4:30 p.m. (CDT)

Requirements & Deadlines

  • The seminar is free, but registration will be required as the date nears.
  • The sessions are different yet closely linked, so participation in multiple sessions is encouraged
  • Registered attendees will receive a copy of The Grant Application Writer’s Workbook before the first session.
  • Additional details about parking, event locations, and RSVPs will be posted soon.