The NERRS Science Collaborative is accepting applications to participate in the “Initiative to Understand Impact.” This initiative is all about advancing capacity to explain impacts by exploring them through the lens of prior collaborative science projects. Learn more about this opportunity and review the application guidelines.

Please note, this opportunity is designed to involve two representatives for each project of focus, i.e., teams of two individuals. If you are interested in participating, you will need to identify a second individual with whom you will work and coordinate a single application. Only one project representative should complete an application.

Applications must be submitted by 11:59pm ET on February 27, 2026. 

Prior to beginning your application, please note:

• You will need a U-M Friend Account to start and submit your application. Information on how to create an account can be found here. If you have a Friend Account but have forgotten the password, you may request a password reset here.
• You will be prompted to login with your Friend Account when you click "Apply."
• You will receive a single confirmation email the first time you successfully upload and save your application. The email will include the link you may use to return to your application and make edits until the deadline. 
• Your saved application will be automatically submitted at 11:59pm ET on February 27, 2026. If you do not receive a confirmation email after the first time you save your application, it was not saved properly and you should either resave or contact us directly.

If you have any questions regarding the application process, please email [email protected].