IRLE supports rigorous interdisciplinary research projects on topics aligned with our mission: to understand the dynamics and policies affecting workers, working life, and employment. Each year, we invite research funding applications from UC Berkeley graduate and doctoral students. Applications for the 2025-26 awards cycle are now open. Apply by April 11, 2025 by 6pm PT. Awardees will be notified by June 20, 2025.

IRLE seeks to fund a broad and interdisciplinary range of research areas that intersect with our mission. In recent years, we have funded projects focused on education, public employment, criminal justice, labor markets, racial equity, gender discrimination, and immigration.

Questions? Refer to our FAQs or contact us at irle@berkeley.edu.

Awards Program Details

Current and Past Awardees