Apply Now: Research Training Institute (RTI) 2026!

Submitted by: Debra Cavanaugh

The RTI Fellowship is the only year-long research training program dedicated to librarianship. Participants gain advanced research skills through core modules, mentored projects, and a poster presentation at MLA’s annual conference. Graduates earn 48 MLA CE hours, an RTI Fellow Certificate, and may achieve the prestigious RTIF designation for published research—boosting credibility and career growth.

“The data demonstrates that the Research Fellows program had a transformative and enduring impact on participants’ research capabilities. The breadth and depth of improvement suggest that the training effectively built foundational and advanced competencies, equipping participants for continued success in research environments.”

Program Highlights:

  • An immersive curriculum with 20 core modules, peer coaching, and a supportive online community.
  • New for RTI ’26: expanded curriculum featuring survey validation, AI in research, research reproducibility, and research impact.
  • Graduates earn recognition in MLA Continuing Education credits and the RTI Fellow Certificate. Those who publish peer-reviewed research may receive the Distinguished RTIF designation.

To learn more, register for the last RTI Office Hour Sessions below. Drop in to the session to have your questions answered about submitting to the Research Training Institute (RTI) ’26.

See the RTI website for more information and make sure to apply by the February 16 deadline!!

If you have any questions, please reach out to Susan Lessick, RTI founding director.