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. The 2025-26 awards cycle applications open on March 19, 2025. Applications close April 11, 2025 by 6pm PDT. Awardees will be notified by May 9, 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.

The application period starts soon. Apply by Friday, April 11 at 6pm PDT.

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

Awards Program Details

Current and Past Awardees