Call for Proposals: RDL Byrne Seminars on the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution (Fall Semester 2026) 

The Rutgers Democracy Lab (RDL), in partnership with the Office of Undergraduate Education, invites faculty to submit proposals for Byrne Seminars to be offered during the Fall 2026 semester in recognition of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. 

Proposed seminars should examine the American Revolution and its enduring legacies, with a focus on the practice of democracy—its ideals, inherent tensions, and contemporary challenges. In keeping with the mission of the RDL, proposals should demonstrate a commitment to equipping future generations with the tools and knowledge necessary to make the ideals of American democracy a lived reality. We particularly encourage seminars that adopt multidisciplinary approaches, engage with evidence, and bridge historical inquiry with present-day democratic practices, civic participation, and accountability. Creativity and innovation in class formats are strongly encouraged, including hands-on learning and teaching by doing—providing students with the tools and guidance to address real-world challenges.

Proposals must meet all current  Byrne Seminar requirements.  

Successful applicants will receive a $1,000 research stipend from the Rutgers Democracy Lab in addition to the $2,500 research stipends faculty and senior administrators receive for their Byrne Seminar. 

Faculty from all disciplines are encouraged to apply. 

Please apply using the Bryne portal and then send a brief cover letter via email to James Register, Senior Program Coordinator at byrneseminars@rutgers.edu and Ava Majlesi, Chief Operating Officer of the Rutgers Democracy Lab at avamaj@rutgers.edu. The subject line for the cover letter should be RDL Byrne Seminar Proposal.

Applications/letters are due on February 6. 

For questions, please contact James Register, Senior Program Coordinator at byrneseminars@rutgers.edu.