SOM Foundation: Structural Engineering Research Fellowship Grant

SOM Foundation: Structural Engineering Research Fellowship Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Skidmore, Owings and Merrill Foundation
Amount: Up to US $20,000
Last Updated: March 08, 2026

Summary

The SOM Foundation's Structural Engineering Research Fellowship offers $20,000 annually to U.S.-based students specializing in structural engineering. Established in 1998, it supports research on how structures can enhance the built environment. This year's focus is on adapting housing strategies to address evolving needs, emphasizing affordable and innovative multifamily housing solutions. Applicants must be graduating in related fields and intend to practice structural engineering, documenting their findings to influence education and professional practice.

Overview

Structural Engineering Research Fellowship The $20,000 Structural Engineering Fellowship is awarded annually to a graduating student based in the United States who specializes in structural engineering to conduct independent travel and research that contributes to the SOM Foundation’s current topic. The Structural Engineering Fellowship was created in 1998 to support research that has the potential to influence the practice and teaching of how structures can positively impact our built environment. Topic: Adapting Housing Strategies to Respond to New Realities This year’s topic seeks to explore affordable, equitable, and innovative modes of multifamily housing that respond to current and future needs. These housing strategies need to consider changing demographics, collectivity, economy, work patterns, and the environment, through the exploration of design strategies, community engagement, economic models, and legal policies. With housing costs continuing to escalate and adequate housing remaining inaccessible for many in our communities, we need to think and build in a smart and sustainable way, update existing housing developments, and foster the adaptive reuse of other existing typologies to create thriving communities and healthy neighborhoods.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Applicants must be graduating with a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or PhD in civil and environmental engineering or architectural engineering with a specialization in structural engineering from a professionally accredited degree program in the United States. US citizenship is not required. Applicants must intend to enter the professional practice of structural engineering. The winning applicant will be required to thoroughly document their research findings and develop conclusions or suggestions for applications to teaching and/or professional practice.