UIDP Webinar: 2026 Sony Research Award Program
Sony is accepting proposals for its 2026 Sony Research Award Program, which supports cutting-edge academic research and helps faculty members build collaborative relationships with Sony researchers. The program provides awards of up to $100,000 through the Faculty Innovation Award track and up to $150,000 through the Focused Research Award track. Proposals are due Sept. 15, 2026. View prior award recipients here.
UIDP and Rakesh Pandit, Sony’s manager of strategic collaboration, provided an overview of the 2026 program and practical guidance on developing a competitive submission. The webinar helped researchers and the university professionals who supported them understand the differences between the two award tracks and how to prepare a clear and compelling application.
Program Eligibility
Full-time professors or researchers authorized to supervise PhD students at institutions in the United States, Canada, India, and select European countries are eligible to apply for research awards.
During the webinar, participants:
- Reviewed the two award tracks, current research topics, proposal process, and funding timelines.
- Gained practical guidance on developing a clear and compelling application.
- Explored how Sony worked with academic researchers to advance innovative technologies.
The session concluded with a live question-and-answer period, giving attendees the opportunity to ask Sony directly about program fit, application requirements, and the 2026 award cycle.
Originally aired,
Tuesday, August 18, 2026
Speaker
Rakesh Pandit, Sony
Resources
Submission Guidelines
FAQs
