Enabling Program FAQs

Question: I have never done any hazards research before. Should I still apply?

Answer: Yes, if you have an interest in conducting hazards projects, you should apply. The program supports researchers who are interested in transitioning into hazards research. Be sure to address this in your written response to the prompts in the application.

Question: I don’t have any experience writing NSF grants. Will I still be competitive for selection?

Answer: Yes, this might be perfect for you. The program helps you to develop your grant writing skills. Be sure to articulate your interest in developing these skills in one of your essays.

Question: I started my assistant professor position before the fall 2016 semester, but I’d really like to do this. Should I still apply?

Answer: No, unfortunately you do not qualify.

Question: I have a Ph.D. in a discipline not listed above and I’m not sure that I would be considered. Can I still apply?

Answer: We have no requirements in terms of specific disciplinary degrees and will pair you with a faculty mentor who fits your expertise. The key is to express an interest in hazards, disaster, and risk related research.

Question: I can’t make it for the full duration of one of the required Workshops. Should I still apply?

Answer: You are required to attend all workshops. Those who cannot attend the full duration of all workshops should not apply unless there are extraordinary extenuating circumstances (e.g., the birth of a child). Please contact Dr. Tom Cova (cova@geog.utah.edu) if you believe you may have an exception.

Question: What do I have to do in order to apply?

Answer: You will be asked to submit a CV, the contact information for three academic references (not letters), and written responses to the following 4 prompts: (1) Describe your current research and teaching interests. (≤500 words); (2) Describe your interest in hazards/risks/disasters research. (≤300 words); (3) The aim of this fellowship is to enable the next generation of hazards, risks, and disasters researchers. Why do you need to be enabled? In other words, why should we select you for this fellowship program? (≤300 words); (4) How would this fellowship help you to achieve your long term professional or personal goals? (≤300 words); and (5) How do you (personally) and/or your work contribute to enhancing participation and diversifying the hazards and disaster field? (≤150 words)

Question: How many faculty fellows will be selected to participate in the program?

Answer: A total of 20 fellows will be selected!

Question: What if I began as an assistant professor in July 2015, but then took another assistant professor job at a different university in July 2017. Do I still qualify?

Answer: Yes. As long as you began your current assistant professor position on or after July 2016, you can apply!

Contact Dr. Tom Cova at the University of Utah if you have any questions: cova@geog.utah.edu