The Society for the Advancement of Behavior Analysis (SABA) has opened applications for its 2026 Innovative Student Research Grant in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). This grant is designed to support graduate-level empirical studies and demonstration projects that address critical issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion through a behavior analytic lens.
SABA is looking for methodologically rigorous proposals that evaluate the impact of DEI efforts, particularly within community or organizational settings, to ensure fair treatment and welcome environments for all.
Funding and Scope
This grant provides essential seed capital for high-substance student research:
- Award Amount: Between US$1,000 and US$5,000.
- Frequency: One grant is awarded annually to a project of sufficient scope and substance.
- Duration: Funding is intended to facilitate projects that can be completed within the student’s remaining time in their academic program.
- Continuity: Recipients are eligible to apply for one additional continuation grant in the subsequent year.
Research Focus Areas
Proposals must be informed by a behavior analytic perspective and may involve multidisciplinary approaches. Key areas of interest include:
- Diversity: Researching the traits and characteristics that make individuals unique.
- Equity: Projects ensuring fair treatment and equality of professional or social opportunity.
- Inclusion: Evaluating behaviors and social norms that foster a welcoming environment.
- Organizational Impact: Preference is given to projects measuring the success of DEI initiatives in real-world settings.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements to be considered for funding:
- Academic Status: Enrollment in a graduate program (Master’s or Doctoral) in psychology, education, behavioral science, or an allied discipline.
- Faculty Supervision: Your department must have a sufficient number of behaviorally oriented faculty to supervise the research.
- Commitment: Evidence of a commitment to basic, applied, or translational research in behavior analysis.
- Timeline: You must have enough time remaining in your program to fully execute the proposed project.
Application Requirements
The selection process is rigorous and requires the following documentation:
- Biosketch: Completion of the official SABA biosketch template.
- Five-Page Proposal: Must include Title, Significance, Specific Aims, Approach, Method, Limitations, Timeline, Budget, and Matching Funding.
- Advisor Support: A letter from your academic advisor confirming your timeline and project viability.
- Institutional Verification: A letter from your department chair verifying that the necessary resources are available to conduct the study.
⏳ Important Deadlines
- Application Deadline: January 14, 2026.
- Recipient Notification: June 2026.
- Reporting Requirement: A brief expenditure and progress report is due by April 1, 2027.
🚀 Take Action Now
If you are a graduate researcher ready to bridge the gap between behavioral science and social equity, begin your application today.
- Step 1: Download the official Biosketch template and begin drafting your five-page proposal.
- Step 2: Secure your letters of support from your academic advisor and department chair.
- Step 3: Submit Your Grant Application via the SABA Portal
Deadline: January 14, 2026.
Call to Action: Prepare your submission with a focus on methodological rigor and practical DEI impact. For inquiries, contact saba@abainternational.org.
