The Social and Behavioral Science Impact Award recognizes a faculty member conducting social and behavioral science research with the potential to provide solutions to a societal challenge (e.g., climate change, educational problems, food insecurity, inequality, mental illness, misinformation, poverty, racism, substance use, workplace bullying, and threats to democracy). With the understanding that there are many forms of excellence, the research should demonstrate conceptual and methodological excellence. The award comes with an honorarium and plaque. 

Eligibility 

All tenure-track faculty members at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign conducting social and behavioral science research are eligible for the award. Up to two awards will be given each year, with at least one award devoted to acknowledging the work of Assistant or Associate Professors. 

Evaluation Criteria and Review Process

Faculty candidates will be evaluated on three key dimensions by the CSBS Steering Committee: 

The potential of their research to contribute to solving a societal challenge, either directly or indirectly. 
The extent to which their research enhances or changes theoretical or conceptual perspectives in the field. 
The methodological and/or analytical excellence of their research, acknowledging that there is a diversity of approaches to conducting research. 

Nominations 

Candidates must be nominated by a University of Illinois faculty member. The nominator should submit the following via the award portal: 

A 2-page (maximum) nomination statement indicating why the candidate should be recognized for the Social and Behavioral Science Impact Award. The nominator should explicitly address the three evaluation criteria outlined above using concrete examples and/or evidence to demonstrate how the candidate meets each criterion.  
An additional letter of support from a faculty member outside the University of Illinois (other than the candidate’s pre- and/or post-doctoral advisor). This 2-page (maximum) letter should explicitly address the three evaluation criteria outlined above using concrete examples and/or evidence to demonstrate how the candidate meets each criterion. 
The candidate’s CV must be submitted. 

Research conducted in collaboration with others across disciplines can make some of the most significant contributions; if the faculty member is involved in such research, their distinctive contribution (e.g., leadership role and conceptual influence) should be made clear in the nomination statement. 

All nominations due November 1, 2024, by 5:00pm CT. Questions may be directed to CSBScience@illinois.edu