RIVER: Research Immersion through Visits and Exchange Relationships

Program Overview

The NSF ERC EARTH RIVER Program (Research Immersion through Visits and Exchange Relationships) provides up to $5,000 in travel support for graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and research staff to conduct short-term research visits at another EARTH core or affiliate institution. RIVER exchanges are designed to strengthen collaboration, advance research objectives, develop new skills, and provide access to specialized expertise, facilities, and Testbeds. 

Applications are reviewed quarterly, and applicants are typically notified within 30 days of the submission deadline. Award recipients must submit a final report within 30 days of completing their exchange.

Learn more about the program, submit an application, or access reporting materials using the links below.

How It Works

1. Identify a Host Institution and Mentors
Work with your home advisor and a host faculty mentor at another EARTH institution to develop a short-term research exchange.

2. Submit an Application
Complete the online application form and upload all required materials by the applicable deadline.

3. Conduct the Exchange
Selected participants complete a short-term research visit and engage in the proposed research activities.

4. Submit a Final Report
Award recipients submit a final report within 30 days of completing the exchange.

Application Checklist

Applicants must submit:

• Participant Information
• Proposal Narrative (2-page maximum)
• Budget & Budget Justification
• Home Institution Support Statement
• Host Institution Support Statement

Questions

Questions regarding the EARTH RIVER Program should be directed to Jessica Tami, ERC EARTH Research Project Manager at jltami@ku.edu.