To help advance the careers of women in academia, the President's Council of Cornell Women (PCCW) is offering grants to support the completion of dissertations and research leading to tenure and promotion.

The deadline for application for the grants, which can be in any subject, is Feb. 28. Eligible applicants include Cornell women who are either Ph.D. students or assistant or associate professors.

Established in 1992, the PCCW grants have supported research in a wide range of fields. Funded proposals have included projects in mathematics, neurology and behavior, ecology and systematics, linguistics, regional planning and sociology, among other disciplines.

In 1996, 18 applications were approved for funding. Recipients included two faculty members and 16 Ph.D. candidates. Since 1992, PCCW has funded a total of 79 research studies and projects by women.

Applications for funding will be reviewed by university faculty and a committee of PCCW members and will be evaluated on the statement of objective, research design, clarity of writing, feasibility, appropriateness of budget and strength of recommendations. Grant applications up to $2,500 will be considered. The anticipated decision date for applications is April 30, with availability of funds planned for June 2.

PCCW was established in 1990 as an advisory council to the university's president, with the mission of improving the status and advancing the leadership of women faculty, students, staff and alumnae, both on campus and in constituent groups. There are approximately 250 members, invited by the president to serve three-year renewable terms. All current women trustees serve as ex-officio members.

Details about the PCCW grants are available from the PCCW office on the third floor of 626 Thurston Ave., (607) 255-6624.