RDA-US is pleased to announce the launch of the RDA-US 2026 Cohort, an exciting opportunity for U.S.-based participants interested in engaging more deeply with the Research Data Alliance (RDA) and leveraging it to advance their work, projects, and international collaborations.
This cohort is designed for people who want to move beyond observing RDA and into active participation, contributing to Working Groups (WGs) and Interest Groups (IGs), building relationships across the global research infrastructure community, and strengthening U.S. engagement within RDA.
Applications are open now and will be reviewed on a rolling basis through February 15, 2026.
What Is the RDA-US 2026 Cohort?
The RDA-US 2026 Cohort is a facilitated engagement program that supports up to 15 US-based participants through structured, in-person participation in two key RDA events:
- Spring 2026: A Washington, DC-based RDA Plenary watch party and RDA-US community convening
- Fall 2026: In-person participation in the RDA Plenary in London
Travel support is provided for both the Washington, DC, and London activities, either through prepaid travel or reimbursement. Participation in both events is required. More info available on our FAQ
Who Should Apply?
The cohort is open to anyone based in the United States who is:
- Interested in RDA and motivated to engage actively
- Looking to use RDA as a platform to further their own work or international collaborations
- Willing to contribute to RDA Working Groups or Interest Groups
You do not need to be an RDA member at the time of application, and prior RDA experience is not required. However, applicants should be familiar enough with RDA to realistically engage with its community and structures.
Early-career applicants are encouraged, but not required. Participants at other career stages are welcome to apply if they are ready to contribute meaningfully.
What Will Cohort Members Do?
At the heart of the program is the development of a community engagement plan. As part of the cohort, participants will:
- Identify one or more RDA Working Groups or Interest Groups aligned with their interests
- Articulate how they plan to engage and contribute
- Refine that plan through facilitated sessions during the Washington, DC, convening
- Receive support through pairing with experienced RDA community members who can help provide context, introductions, and guidance
This is not a passive training program. Instead, it is designed to help participants learn by doing, engaging directly with RDA work while being supported by a structured community framework and one-on-one discussions with RDA-US Steering Group members.
Why Participate?
The RDA-US 2026 Cohort offers participants:
- Funded access to RDA community gatherings
- Practical experience navigating international research infrastructure communities
- Opportunities to build relationships with WG/IG leaders and contributors
- A pathway to sustained engagement within RDA
- Exposure to global conversations shaping research data and infrastructure
For many participants, this cohort will serve as a bridge, connecting their existing work to the broader international RDA ecosystem.
Community Gathering in Washington, DC
The Spring 2026 convening in Washington, DC, will be held March 17-18 in conjunction with a broader RDA-US community gathering, including shared plenary viewing, an RDA-US session, and social events. Cohort members are required to attend structured program activities during this time, while other portions of the gathering are open to the wider RDA-US community.
See our Save the Date post for more details about the community gathering and open participation.
How to Apply
To apply:
- Complete the application form
- Review the FAQ for full details on eligibility, expectations, and travel support
- Submit your application by February 15, 2026
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and selection is competitive.
Learn More
- Save the Date: RDA-US Community Gathering in Washington, DC
- FAQ: RDA-US 2026 Cohort Program Details
- Apply: RDA-US 2026 Cohort Application Form
If you have questions, you can also connect with the RDA-US community via rda-us.slack.com.