National research center on advanced education: improving gifted education

The Institute of Education Sciences (IES) awarded The Johns Hopkins University a $999,990 Project Grant on September 30, 2025, under the Education Research, Development and Dissemination program (CFDA 84.305) to establish the National Research Center on Advanced Education: Improving Gifted Education. The award, which extends through September 29, 2026, supports rigorous research designed to expand knowledge of educational practices and outcomes related to gifted education. As the prime awardee, Johns Hopkins University will lead the center's research activities, with American Institutes for Research in the Behavioral Sciences (AIR) serving as a sub-grantee providing intellectual leadership and technical expertise in research design, measurement, national outreach, and dissemination strategies.

Under this award structure, AIR contributes quantitative research expertise through co-principal investigators Ben Backes and James Cowan, who will oversee quantitative studies, while Dan Goldhaber serves as an Advisor. The AIR team will collaborate on written research reports, policy briefs, dissemination activities, and regular engagement with center partners and state stakeholders. The center's deliverables are expected to generate evidence-based findings and products that advance understanding of gifted education policy and practice, supporting educators, policymakers, and practitioners in making informed decisions regarding identification, instruction, and support for gifted students.