Since 2025, the Center for Middle East Studies has invited proposals for short-term thematic initiatives (lasting one or two semesters), encouraging proposals that are collaborative across discipline and rank, and go beyond the range of subjects represented by the Center’s existing research areas. 

To date, CMES has funded two thematic research initiatives: American-Islamic Exchanges in the Long 19th Century (2025-26) and A Seat at the Table: Making Space for the Middle East and North Africa in Global Food Studies (Fall 2026).

Please continue to check back here for future calls for proposals and details about the funds available for thematic initiatives within CMES.