Do you have an ongoing group research project at the interface between mathematics and biology that has been on hold because you and your collaborators are scattered in different locations?

Or would you like to get a new team of people together to brainstorm about and tackle some exciting idea? 

If so, apply for an interdisciplinary research retreat in Chicago!

The National Institute for Theory and Mathematics in Biology (NITMB) invites applications for our Focused Research Group Awards (FRGA). We bring small, multi-institutional teams (e.g., 3–6 researchers) for up to 9 days of intense, distraction-free collaboration in our space on the 35th floor of the iconic Hancock Building.

• Funding (subject to NITMB policies): Covers travel, local lodging, subsistence, and dedicated meeting space.
• Breaking disciplinary silos: Open to mathematicians exploring biological contexts, biologists employing advanced theoretical frameworks and, especially, groups with interdisciplinary expertise.
• High-risk, high-reward: Priority is given to projects developing innovative mathematical approaches inspired by biology.

For visits during Summer 2027 (May through August), please apply by 30 November 2026 for full consideration. 

Visit our website to view further information, full eligibility criteria, and to submit your 2-page proposal: nitmb.org/research/focused-research-group-awards