Advance at the University of New Mexico, in collaboration with the Faculty Research Development Office, is organizing a series of workshops for faculty members during the fall semester. The sessions are open to all faculty and will cover topics such as identifying new funding sources, communicating research to different audiences, applying for National Science Foundation (NSF) funding to translate scientific discoveries into practical solutions, and engaging with Category III research centers at UNM.
The schedule begins on September 10 with a required Faculty Search Workshop for department chairs, search committee chairs and members, and coordinators involved in faculty searches during academic year 2026. Additional dates for this workshop include September 5, 11, and October 3.
On September 11, a session will focus on NSF’s Translation to Practice (NSF 25-540) funding opportunity. This initiative supports efforts to move basic science projects toward commercial applications. Faculty can apply for supplemental funding to existing NSF awards or submit new proposals centered on use-driven innovation. The event will be held virtually.
A discussion titled “You’re an Associate Professor: Celebration, Strategy, and a Little Commiseration” is scheduled for September 19. The event aims to recognize achievements at this career stage while offering strategies for managing new expectations.
“Cultivating Connections: Outreach, Engagement, and Fundraising for Local Change” takes place on September 26 via Zoom. The session will provide information about building partnerships beyond the university and raising funds through connections with offices and organizations both within and outside UNM.
On September 29, Marissa Greenberg, the 2025-2027 CTL Presidential Teaching Fellow and Associate Professor of English, will lead the first meeting in a virtual series called “Academic Pipelines for Lobos with Disabilities.” These conversations are designed for UNM faculty interested in discussing experiences related to disability in academia.
Faculty can also participate in Lightning Lounge events on October 15 and November 19 at the Honors College forum. These gatherings feature short presentations from colleagues about their research and scholarship followed by opportunities for networking.
A panel discussion on October 17 will introduce Category III research centers at UNM. Directors from these centers—which operate across multiple colleges or schools—will explain their work and resources available to faculty. This session is also online.
On October 24, a workshop titled “Using Your Mid-Pro Evaluation to Develop a Roadmap to Tenure” will help faculty navigate the next steps after passing the midpoint of their promotion process.
Finally, on November 7 there will be a session covering annual reviews and milestone evaluations led by AVP for Faculty Affairs Christopher Lyons and Advance Director Julia Fulghum. They will discuss differences between policy and practice regarding key evaluations relevant to both tenure-track faculty and lecturers.
“Advance at the University of New Mexico, in partnership with the Faculty Research Development Office, is offering a variety of workshops open to all faculty,” according to organizers.
