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The 6th Annual Student Research Competition on Sustainable Finance and Fixed Income

The Fixed Income Analysts Society (FIASI) has teamed up with Fordham University's Center for Research in Contemporary Finance to host the 6th Annual FIASI-Gabelli School Student Research Competition. This unique initiative offers students—undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate—both in the U.S. and internationally, the chance to showcase their original research on sustainable finance and innovations within fixed income and related markets.

Competition Goals

The primary objective of this competition is to raise awareness and emphasize the importance of integrating relevant Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors into investment decisions, particularly in the fixed income markets. This initiative not only aims to address the challenges and opportunities that come with deploying new technologies but also encourages conversations among students, academics, practitioners, and various stakeholders involved in sustainable finance.

Moreover, participants are urged to connect their findings with practical applications for businesses, government entities, and other stakeholders. The competition is designed to stimulate research and discussions about the opportunities that sustainability and innovation bring to fixed income investments.

Submission Guidelines

Students pursuing degrees in business, economics, or other sustainable finance disciplines can submit their research papers, which can include anything from Ph.D. dissertations to Master's theses and undergraduate honors projects. Each submission must be composed of:

• - A cover page listing the title, authors’ names, email addresses, and affiliations;
• - An abstract limited to 150 words;
• - A research paper up to 60 pages;
• - A copy of each researcher's resume.

Submissions should reflect the student's own analysis and include a disclaimer asserting that the research is not associated with any past or current employer. In the case of co-authored papers, the student must make a significant contribution.

Evaluation Process

Research submissions will be evaluated by a review committee composed of members from the FIASI, the Gabelli School of Business, and the fixed-income industry. The evaluation will focus on the originality and relevance of the research question and the methodologies employed—both qualitative and quantitative.

Awards and Recognition

The competition will not only recognize the winning submission but also highlight runner-up entries, with distinctions made between undergraduate and post-graduate submissions. Winning entries will receive monetary awards up to $5,000 and recognition at the FIASI Sustainable Finance in Fixed Income Conference set for April 16, 2026, in New York City. These awards will be paid directly to the recipients, and winners will be required to acknowledge the grant in all related publications and presentations.

Last year's competition saw 21 submissions, with multiple awards distributed. This previous experience has set the stage for an even more vibrant exchange of ideas and robust research contributions this year.

Deadlines and Further Information

All proposals must be submitted by February 3, 2026, to Ms. Joanna Kondratowicz at the provided email address. Final decisions will be communicated prior to April 7, 2026, ensuring a timely response for participants.

About the FIASI: Established in 1975, the Fixed Income Analysts Society (FIASI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating its members and the broader fixed income community. By facilitating programs, workshops, and recognition ceremonies, FIASI aims to foster growth and collaboration within this area.

To learn more about participation and the significance of ESG factors in sustainable finance, students and interested parties are encouraged to reach out to FIASI or review detailed guidelines available through the organization.