National Science Foundation Research Traineeship Institutional Partnership Pilot (NRT-IPP) Program

Nationwide Science Basis

Directorate for STEM Schooling
     Division of Graduate Schooling

Directorate for Know-how, Innovation and Partnerships

Full Proposal Deadline(s) (due by 5 p.m. submitting group’s native time):

     July 22, 2024

Vital Info And Revision Notes

This Nationwide Science Basis Analysis Traineeship Institutional Partnership Pilot (NRT-IPP) Program represents a collaboration between the Directorates for STEM Schooling (EDU) and Know-how, Innovation, and Partnerships (TIP). The important thing purpose of this program is to pilot a brand new partnership method that may assist analysis and schooling initiatives with excessive {industry} relevance and which will subsequently be built-in as a separate Observe of the NRT program.

Proposals submitted in response to this solicitation should symbolize an efficient partnership amongst: (a) a non-R1 Establishment of Greater Schooling (IHE) (lead establishment), (b) an non-lead IHE (an R1 or non-R1) that has both an ongoing or accomplished NRT program in a minimum of one of many focus areas outlined for this pilot (see under), and (c) two to 3 {industry} companions in the identical focus space(s). For R1 and non-R1 IHE classifications, please check with Carnegie Fundamental Classifications: https://carnegieclassifications.acenet.edu/carnegie-classification/classification-methodology/basic-classification/.

The NRT challenge on the collaborating non-lead IHE associate ought to have efficiently accomplished a minimum of three years of labor, as demonstrated by three permitted annual studies on the time of submission. The lead establishment mustn’t have an current grasp’s diploma within the chosen focus space(s). Investigators from a lead establishment that has an current graduate certificates, a observe inside an current grasp’s program that’s broader than or distinct from the chosen focus space(s), or a Ph.D. program in a number of of the chosen focus areas are inspired to contact the Program Officers to inquire about eligibility.

Focus Areas:

Synthetic intelligence, machine studying, autonomy, and associated advances.
Excessive efficiency computing, semiconductors, and superior pc {hardware} and software program.
Quantum info science and engineering.
Robotics, automation, and superior manufacturing.
Pure and anthropogenic catastrophe prevention or mitigation.
Superior communications know-how and immersive know-how.
Biotechnology, medical know-how, genomics, and artificial biology.
Information storage, information administration, distributed ledger applied sciences, and cybersecurity, together with biometrics.
Superior power and industrial effectivity applied sciences, resembling batteries and superior nuclear applied sciences, together with however not restricted to, for the needs of electrical technology (in step with part 15 of the Nationwide Science Basis Act of 1950 (42 U.S.C. 1874)).
Superior supplies science, together with composites 2D supplies, different next-generation supplies, and associated manufacturing applied sciences.

Please notice restrictions on institutional eligibility detailed in Part IV of this solicitation. The variety of NRT proposal submissions allowed per lead establishment is proscribed to 2 (2) submissions complete in response to this solicitation. A non-lead IHE NRT challenge associate can take part in just one (1) proposal in response to this solicitation. The variety of NRT proposal submissions per PI or co-PI is proscribed to at least one (1) submission complete. Eligible non-R1 establishments might submit proposals as both lead establishments, non-lead establishments, or each, with a complete institutional restrict of three (3) proposals per establishment.

Any proposal submitted in response to this solicitation ought to be submitted in accordance with the NSF Proposal & Award Insurance policies & Procedures Information (PAPPG) that’s in impact for the related due date to which the proposal is being submitted. The NSF PAPPG is repeatedly revised and it’s the duty of the proposer to make sure that the proposal meets the necessities specified on this solicitation and the relevant model of the PAPPG. Submitting a proposal previous to a specified deadline doesn’t negate this requirement.

Abstract Of Program Necessities

Common Info

Program Title:

Nationwide Science Basis Analysis Traineeship Institutional Partnership Pilot (NRT-IPP) Program

Synopsis of Program:

The NSF Analysis Traineeship (NRT) Program seeks proposals that discover methods for graduate college students in research-based grasp’s and doctoral diploma packages to develop the abilities, data, and competencies wanted to pursue a spread of science, know-how, engineering, and arithmetic (STEM) careers. This solicitation describes a pilot for a possible new observe for the prevailing NRT Program that may assist analysis and schooling initiatives that may lead to a brand new grasp’s diploma, certificates, or a observe inside an current grasp’s or Ph.D. program with excessive {industry} relevance in a minimum of one focus space recognized on this pilot. This shall be achieved via an efficient partnership amongst: (a) a non-R1 Establishment of Greater Schooling (IHE) (lead establishment), (b) an non-lead IHE (an R1 or non-R1) that has both an ongoing or accomplished NRT program in a minimum of one of many focus areas outlined for this pilot (see under), and (c) two to 3 {industry} companions in the identical focus space(s). The general function is to coach the STEM workforce in focus areas specified on this solicitation by stimulating collaborations amongst non-R1 establishments, establishments with current or accomplished NRT initiatives, and {industry} companions.

Cognizant Program Officer(s):

Please notice that the next info is present on the time of publishing. See program web site for any updates to the factors of contact.

Relevant Catalog of Federal Home Help (CFDA) Quantity(s):

47.041
— Engineering
47.049
— Mathematical and Bodily Sciences
47.050
— Geosciences
47.070
— Laptop and Info Science and Engineering
47.074
— Organic Sciences
47.075
— Social Behavioral and Financial Sciences
47.076
— STEM Schooling
47.079
— Workplace of Worldwide Science and Engineering
47.083
— Workplace of Integrative Actions (OIA)
47.084
— NSF Know-how, Innovation and Partnerships

Award Info

Anticipated Sort of Award: Persevering with Grant

Estimated Variety of Awards: 5

NRT-IPP awards (roughly 5 awards every year) are anticipated to be as much as 5 (5) years in length with a complete funds as much as $4,500,000.

Not more than 30% of the overall award funds could be supplied to the non-lead IHE associate. Collaborative proposals might solely be submitted as a single proposal, by which a single award is being requested (with subawards administered by the lead group). Simultaneous submission of collaborative proposals from totally different organizations, with every group requesting a separate award, just isn’t permitted.

Anticipated Funding Quantity: $15,000,000

Estimated program funds, variety of awards and common award measurement/length are topic to the provision of funds.

Eligibility Info

Who Could Submit Proposals:

Proposals might solely be submitted by the next:

Proposals submitted in response to this solicitation should symbolize a partnership amongst: (a) a non-R1 Establishment of Greater Schooling (IHE) (lead establishment), (b) a non-lead IHE (an R1 or non-R1) that has both an ongoing or accomplished NRT program in a minimum of one of many focus areas outlined for this pilot (see under), and (c) two to 3 {industry} companions in the identical focus space(s). For R1 and non-R1 IHE classifications, please check with Carnegie Fundamental Classifications: https://carnegieclassifications.acenet.edu/carnegie-classification/classification-methodology/basic-classification/. The NRT challenge on the collaborating non-lead IHE associate should have efficiently accomplished a minimum of three years of labor, as demonstrated by three permitted annual challenge studies on the time of proposal submission. The lead establishment mustn’t have an current grasp’s diploma within the chosen focus space(s). Investigators from a lead establishment that has an current graduate certificates, a observe inside an current grasp’s program that’s broader than or distinct from the chosen focus space(s), or a Ph.D. program in a number of of the chosen focus areas are inspired to contact the Program Officers to inquire about eligibility.

Who Could Function PI:

The PI should maintain a tenured school appointment on the Affiliate/Full Professor rank or equal at an eligible non-R1 group.

Restrict on Variety of Proposals per Group:
2

Eligible non-R1 IHEs might submit as much as two (2) proposals as lead establishment.

Eligible R1 and non-R1 IHEs might take part in a single (1) proposal as a non-lead associate.

Eligible non-R1 establishments might submit a complete of as much as three (3) proposals per establishment no matter whether or not they’re a lead or non-lead.

Restrict on Variety of Proposals per PI or co-PI:
1

A person might function Principal Investigator (PI) or co-PI on just one (1) proposal submitted to this program solicitation.

Proposals that exceed the PI/co-PI eligibility restrict (past the primary submission primarily based on timestamp), shall be returned with out overview whatever the particular person’s function (PI or co-PI) within the proposal.

Proposal Preparation and Submission Directions

A. Proposal Preparation Directions

Letters of Intent: Not required

Preliminary Proposal Submission: Not required

B. Budgetary Info

Different Budgetary Limitations:

Different budgetary limitations apply. Please see the total textual content of this solicitation for additional info.

C. Due Dates

Proposal Evaluate Info Standards

Benefit Evaluate Standards:

Nationwide Science Board permitted standards. Further advantage overview standards apply. Please see the total textual content of this solicitation for additional info.

Award Administration Info

Award Situations:

Commonplace NSF award situations apply.

Reporting Necessities:

Commonplace NSF reporting necessities apply.

Desk Of Contents

Abstract of Program Necessities

Introduction
Program Description
Award Info
Eligibility Info
Proposal Preparation and Submission Directions

Proposal Preparation Directions
Budgetary Info
Due Dates
Analysis.gov/Grants.gov Necessities


NSF Proposal Processing and Evaluate Procedures

Benefit Evaluate Ideas and Standards
Evaluate and Choice Course of


Award Administration Info

Notification of the Award
Award Situations
Reporting Necessities


Company Contacts
Different Info

I. Introduction

Science, know-how, engineering, and arithmetic (STEM) graduate schooling is in want of main transformations. There are a number of components driving the necessity for change together with: (i) current main nationwide studies on the state of STEM graduate schooling; (ii) the accelerating tempo of science and engineering discoveries and technological improvements; (iii) nationwide STEM workforce and demographic tendencies; (iv) the rising globalization of science and engineering; (v) the potential to align graduate schooling practices and fashions with an understanding of how individuals be taught; and (vi) calls for brand new fashions for graduate schooling on the nationwide and worldwide ranges leveraging the excessive influence instructional practices that improve scholar engagement and enhance scholar success. [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11] As well as, there’s growing recognition that addressing the grand challenges in science and engineering requires approaches which are interdisciplinary and convergent, (e.g., the place data, theories, strategies and information and analysis communities from a number of disciplines more and more mingle and the place new frameworks, paradigms, and even disciplines might emerge), broader geographic distribution of analysis and academic alternatives shaping the U.S. STEM workforce together with in EPSCoR jurisdictions, in addition to broader skilled coaching than is presently attribute of most graduate packages. [11][12][13]

Employment in STEM occupations has grown 79% since 1990, and the final decade has seen a gradual upward development within the p.c of STEM doctoral diploma recipients in the US pursuing careers in {industry} or enterprise. Trade internships and associated experiential studying alternatives present an vital type of skilled improvement for these careers that require interdisciplinary downside fixing, crew science, and efficient communication expertise. To acknowledge the growing enchantment and availability of profession paths in {industry} for at present’s STEM grasp’s and PhDs, and to construct the nationwide STEM workforce wanted to steer, innovate and meet nationwide priorities in essential fields, new approaches to STEM graduate schooling are wanted. Accordingly, this pilot for a possible new observe for the NRT Program encourages proposals to check, develop, and implement revolutionary and efficient STEM graduate schooling fashions resulting in industry-relevant graduate packages (a grasp’s diploma, certificates, or observe inside an current graduate program) at non-R1 establishments in collaboration with: (i) {industry} companions, and (ii) companions at establishments of upper schooling (IHEs) who’ve efficiently applied/are implementing NRT initiatives within the chosen focus space(s) recognized for this pilot for a brand new observe for NRT. [14][15][16][17][18][19]

[1] The Path Ahead: The Way forward for Graduate Schooling, Fee on the Way forward for Graduate Schooling in the US, 2010

[2] Advancing Graduate Schooling within the Chemical Sciences, American Chemical Society, 2012

[3] Biomedical Analysis Workforce Working Group Report, Nationwide Institutes of Well being, 2012

[4] Understanding PhD Profession Pathways for Program Enchancment, Council of Graduate Colleges, 2014

[5] Revisiting the STEM Workforce: A Companion to Science and Engineering Indicators 2014, Nationwide Science Board, 2015

[6] Skilled Improvement: Shaping Efficient Packages for STEM Graduate College students, Council of Graduate Colleges, 2017

[7] Graduate STEM Schooling for the twenty first Century, The Nationwide Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medication, 2018

[8] The Science of Efficient Mentorship in STEM, The Nationwide Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medication, 2019

[9] Promising Practices for Addressing the Underrepresentation of Girls in Science, Engineering, and Medication: Opening Doorways, The Nationwide Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medication, 2020

[10] “PhD coaching is now not match for function — it wants reform now”, Editorial, Nature, 613, 414 (2023).

[11] Convergence: Facilitating Transdisciplinary Integration of Life Sciences, Bodily Sciences, Engineering, and Past, The Nationwide Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medication, 2014

[12] Enhancing the Effectiveness of Workforce Science, The Nationwide Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medication, 2015

[13] Kuh, G.D., Excessive-Affect Instructional Practices: What They Are, Who Has Entry to Them and Why They Matter. Report from the Affiliation of American Faculties and Universities, 2008

[14] Girls and Males in STEM Typically at Odds Over Office Fairness, Pew Analysis Middle, 2018

[15] Survey of Earned Doctorates (SED) 2022, Nationwide Middle for Science and Engineering Statistics, Nationwide Science Basis, September 2023

[16] Juskewitz, E, Heck, Okay.A., Banono, N.S., ‘Why {industry} internships could be your golden ticket to a affluent profession’, Nature (2021), March 18, 2021

[17] Jain, H., City, N., Calabrese, G.S., ‘PhD coaching: exposing obstacles to reform’, Nature, 615, 216 (2023)

[18] Jain, H., Dierolf, V., Jagota, A., Pan, Z., City, N., ‘Redesigning US STEM doctoral schooling to create a nationwide workforce of technical Leaders’, Proc. 2023 Annual Convention of the American Society for Engineering Schooling. June 25-28, Baltimore, MD

[19] Funk, C. and Parker, Okay. Range within the STEM Workforce Varies Broadly Throughout Jobs, Pew Analysis Middle, 2018

II. Program Description

A. Focus and Objectives

The NRT Program is devoted to shaping and supporting efficient coaching of STEM graduate college students in excessive precedence interdisciplinary or convergent analysis areas utilizing complete traineeship fashions which are revolutionary, evidence-based, and aligned with altering workforce and analysis wants. The targets of this system are to:

Catalyze and advance cutting-edge interdisciplinary or convergent analysis in high-priority areas;
Improve the capability of U.S. graduate packages to supply various cohorts of interdisciplinary STEM professionals with technical and transferable skilled expertise for a spread of analysis and research-related careers inside and outdoors academia; and
Develop revolutionary approaches and data that may promote transformative enhancements in graduate schooling.

The pilot program described on this solicitation advances these targets with an emphasis on particular focus areas. The general function of the pilot program is to stimulate collaborations amongst non-R1 establishments, present or former NRT awardee establishments, and {industry} companions. This system is predicted to develop sustainable programmatic capability on the lead establishments for coaching members of the STEM workforce within the particular focus areas. This system will even result in improvement of profitable fashions of collaboration between non-R1 establishments and establishments with energetic/profitable NRT packages.

B. NRT Traineeships and Trainees

NRT traineeships are devoted to the excellent improvement of graduate college students as versatile STEM professionals for a spread of analysis and research-related careers inside and outdoors academia. This pilot for a possible new observe for the NRT program seeks proposals that concentrate on offering experiential studying experiences to trainees along with their analysis and schooling actions by leveraging experiences of (i) the challenge management crew (lead non-R1 IHE establishment and R1 or non-R1 non-lead IHE associate) and (ii) 2-3 {industry} companions recognized for the challenge. Proposed curricula and experiences ought to put together trainees to resolve interdisciplinary and/or convergent analysis issues, work in various groups, and be capable of talk details about issues and options successfully.

The NRT program is meant to profit a inhabitants of STEM graduate college students past those that obtain an NRT stipend. An NRT trainee is thus outlined as a STEM graduate scholar, no matter funding supply, who’s accepted into an establishment’s NRT program and completes this system’s required NRT components (e.g., programs, workshops, initiatives, and different coaching actions particular to the NRT expertise). Usually, a profitable NRT challenge consists of each funded and non-funded trainees.

To additional maximize the variety of college students benefiting from NRT actions, proposers are anticipated to make NRT program components accessible to different STEM graduate college students who aren’t NRT trainees (inside the capability and funds limitations of the award).

NRT trainees for this pilot ought to be graduate college students with an curiosity within the focus space(s) chosen for the challenge. NRT stipends and assist for customary prices of schooling (tuition and required charges) are restricted to U.S. residents, nationals, and everlasting residents. Nevertheless, college students who aren’t eligible for stipend and tuition assist can take part as non-stipend-supported NRT trainees or as non-trainees and might obtain a lump sum assist for analysis provides, journey, or different NRT-project-relevant exercise inside the limitations of the funds.

C. Key Options of NRT Tasks

NRT initiatives display complete approaches to graduate coaching, and this pilot for a possible new observe for NRT seeks proposals that embody the next key options which are central to the NRT Program:

Improvement of revolutionary and probably transformative interdisciplinary approaches to STEM graduate schooling (for the needs of this solicitation, in a number of focus areas recognized above);
Extension of NRT challenge components to non-stipend-supported NRT trainees and to non-trainees to profit a bigger inhabitants of STEM graduate college students throughout an establishment;
Dissemination of insights gained and outcomes from NRT coaching approaches;
Complete coaching of STEM graduate college students, together with the event of technical {and professional} expertise for careers (for this solicitation, in industries associated to a number of focus areas);
Incorporation of evidence-based methods to broaden participation of scholars from various backgrounds; and
Implementation of strong program evaluation and analysis that’s central to the traineeship and routinely informs and improves follow.

D. Focus Areas

The main target areas for this pilot for a brand new observe for NRT are listed under. The main target space(s) of the proposal and the nationwide workforce want within the chosen focus space(s) ought to be clearly recognized.

Synthetic intelligence, machine studying, autonomy, and associated advances.
Excessive efficiency computing, semiconductors, and superior pc {hardware} and software program.
Quantum info science and engineering.
Robotics, automation, and superior manufacturing.
Pure and anthropogenic catastrophe prevention or mitigation.
Superior communications know-how and immersive know-how.
Biotechnology, medical know-how, genomics, and artificial biology.
Information storage, information administration, distributed ledger applied sciences, and cybersecurity, together with biometrics.
Superior power and industrial effectivity applied sciences, resembling batteries and superior nuclear applied sciences, together with however not restricted to for the needs of electrical technology (in step with part 15 of the Nationwide Science Basis Act of 1950 (42 U.S.C. 1874)).
Superior supplies science, together with composites 2D supplies, different next-generation supplies, and associated manufacturing applied sciences.

III. Award Info

Anticipated Sort of Award: Persevering with Grant

Estimated Variety of Awards: 5

NRT IPP awards (roughly 5 awards every year) are anticipated to be as much as 5 (5) years in length with a complete funds as much as $4,500,000.

Not more than 30% of the overall award funds could be supplied to the non-lead IHE associate. Collaborative proposals might solely be submitted as a single proposal, by which a single award is being requested (with subawards administered by the lead group). Simultaneous submission of collaborative proposals from totally different organizations, with every group requesting a separate award, just isn’t permitted.

Anticipated Funding Quantity: $15,000,000

Estimated program funds, variety of awards and common award measurement/length are topic to the provision of funds.

IV. Eligibility Info

Who Could Submit Proposals:

Proposals might solely be submitted by the next:

Proposals submitted in response to this solicitation should symbolize a partnership amongst: (a) a non-R1 Establishment of Greater Schooling (IHE) (lead establishment), (b) a non-lead IHE (an R1 or non-R1) that has both an ongoing or accomplished NRT program in a minimum of one of many focus areas outlined for this pilot (see under), and (c) two to 3 {industry} companions in the identical focus space(s). For R1 and non-R1 IHE classifications, please check with Carnegie Fundamental Classifications: https://carnegieclassifications.acenet.edu/carnegie-classification/classification-methodology/basic-classification/. The NRT challenge on the collaborating non-lead IHE associate should have efficiently accomplished a minimum of three years of labor, as demonstrated by three permitted annual challenge studies on the time of proposal submission. The lead establishment mustn’t have an current grasp’s diploma within the chosen focus space(s). Investigators from a lead establishment that has an current graduate certificates, a observe inside an current grasp’s program that’s broader than or distinct from the chosen focus space(s), or a Ph.D. program in a number of of the chosen focus areas are inspired to contact the Program Officers to inquire about eligibility.

Who Could Function PI:

The PI should maintain a tenured school appointment on the Affiliate/Full Professor rank or equal at an eligible non-R1 group.

Restrict on Variety of Proposals per Group:
2

Eligible non-R1 IHEs might submit as much as two (2) proposals as lead establishment.

Eligible R1 and non-R1 IHEs might take part in a single (1) proposal as a non-lead associate.

Eligible non-R1 establishments might submit a complete of as much as three (3) proposals per establishment no matter whether or not they’re a lead or non-lead.

Restrict on Variety of Proposals per PI or co-PI:
1

A person might function Principal Investigator (PI) or co-PI on just one (1) proposal submitted to this program solicitation.

Proposals that exceed the PI/co-PI eligibility restrict (past the primary submission primarily based on timestamp), shall be returned with out overview whatever the particular person’s function (PI or co-PI) within the proposal.

Further Eligibility Information:

Collaborative proposals might solely be submitted as a single proposal, by which a single award is requested (with subawards administered by the lead group). Simultaneous submission of collaborative proposals from totally different organizations, with every group requesting a separate award, aren’t permitted.

The lead establishment mustn’t have an current graduate program (grasp’s diploma) within the chosen focus space. Investigators from lead establishments which have an current graduate certificates or a observe inside an current graduate program within the chosen focus space are inspired to contact the Program Officers to inquire about eligibility. The non-lead associate’s NRT program should have efficiently accomplished a minimum of three years indicated by three permitted annual studies on the time of submission.

Participation consists of serving as a lead group or non-lead associate on any proposal. Organizations collaborating solely as evaluators on initiatives are excluded from this limitation. Proposals that exceed the organizational eligibility restrict shall be returned with out overview no matter whether or not the group on such a proposal serves as lead or non-lead IHE associate. Solely US IHEs are eligible to submit as a lead or non-lead associate. Potential PIs are suggested to contact their sponsored analysis workplace concerning institutional processes used to pick proposals for submission.

V. Proposal Preparation And Submission Directions

A. Proposal Preparation Directions

Full Proposal Preparation Directions: Proposers might decide to submit proposals in response to this Program Solicitation through Analysis.gov or Grants.gov.

Full Proposals submitted through Analysis.gov: Proposals submitted in response to this program solicitation ought to be ready and submitted in accordance with the overall pointers contained within the NSF Proposal and Award Insurance policies and Procedures Information (PAPPG). The whole textual content of the PAPPG is offered electronically on the NSF web site at: https://www.nsf.gov/publications/pub_summ.jsp?ods_key=pappg. Paper copies of the PAPPG could also be obtained from the NSF Publications Clearinghouse, phone (703) 292-8134 or by e-mail from [email protected]. The Put together New Proposal setup will immediate you for this system solicitation quantity.
Full proposals submitted through Grants.gov: Proposals submitted in response to this program solicitation through Grants.gov ought to be ready and submitted in accordance with the NSF Grants.gov Utility Information: A Information for the Preparation and Submission of NSF Functions through Grants.gov. The whole textual content of the NSF Grants.gov Utility Information is offered on the Grants.gov web site and on the NSF web site at: (https://www.nsf.gov/publications/pub_summ.jsp?ods_key=grantsgovguide). To acquire copies of the Utility Information and Utility Kinds Package deal, click on on the Apply tab on the Grants.gov website, then click on on the Apply Step 1: Obtain a Grant Utility Package deal and Utility Directions hyperlink and enter the funding alternative quantity, (this system solicitation quantity with out the NSF prefix) and press the Obtain Package deal button. Paper copies of the Grants.gov Utility Information additionally could also be obtained from the NSF Publications Clearinghouse, phone (703) 292-8134 or by e-mail from [email protected].

See PAPPG Chapter II.D.2 for steering on the required sections of a full analysis proposal submitted to NSF. Please notice that the proposal preparation directions supplied on this program solicitation might deviate from the PAPPG directions.

The next directions complement or deviate from the steering within the PAPPG:

Proposal Set-up: Choose “Put together New Full Proposal” in Analysis.gov. Seek for and choose this solicitation title in Step One of many Full Proposal wizard. Within the proposal particulars part, choose “Single proposal (with or with out subawards).” Individually submitted collaborative proposals aren’t permitted and shall be returned with out overview.

Undertaking Title: Present a brief informative title that should start with “NRT-IPP:”.

1. Cowl Sheet: If worldwide actions are proposed, whether or not or not they are going to be funded through the NRT award, the worldwide actions field ought to be checked and the person international locations listed. For planning functions, use September 15, 2024 for the requested beginning date for the FY2024 competitors.

2. Undertaking Abstract: The Undertaking Abstract should embody the next sections: Overview, Mental Benefit, and Broader Impacts. Overview: Present a abstract description, in a bit labeled Overview, that addresses the main target space and justification for selecting the non-lead IHE associate and the way this collaboration with the non-lead associate will assist develop analysis and traineeship actions on the non-R1 lead establishment. The choice and engagement of the {industry} companions ought to be clearly highlighted. This part ought to embody a succinct assertion about regional or nationwide workforce wants within the proposed focus space, and describe why workers with STEM graduate credentials are wanted. The Overview should embody the anticipated variety of NRT trainees who will obtain an NRT stipend, the variety of further NRT trainees who won’t obtain an NRT stipend, and the estimated complete variety of graduate college students that may take part in project-funded actions at each lead establishment and non-lead IHE associate. The quantity ought to be disaggregated between the lead establishment and non-lead associate. The Overview ought to be written in a fashion that shall be informative to STEM professionals working in the identical or associated fields and comprehensible to a scientifically literate lay reader. Key phrases: The final line of the Overview part should additionally embody 8-10 key phrases that describe the challenge’s analysis and/or schooling focus space(s). This info is meant to help in figuring out reviewers with the data and experience wanted to overview the proposal. The key phrases ought to describe the primary scientific/engineering areas explored within the proposal. Key phrases ought to be prefaced with the phrase “Key phrases” adopted by a colon and every key phrase set ought to be separated by semicolons. For instance, they could seem as, Key phrases: semiconductors; biotechnology; robotics; superior supplies; quantum info science and engineering; fairness.

3. Undertaking Description (20-page restrict): The Undertaking Description should include solely Sections 3a via 3o as described under, with the supplied headings used and within the order listed. The Undertaking Description can’t exceed 20 pages, together with tables and illustrations.

3a. Checklist of Core Contributors: Embody a desk on web page 1 of the Undertaking Description that lists as much as 10 core members, together with the PI, co-PIs, and different Senior/Key personnel together with different school, lead evaluator, and exterior collaborators. The core members should be designated as Senior/Key personnel within the proposal and should present the Senior/Key Personnel Paperwork required by the PAPPG. At the least 5 (5) core members ought to be affiliated with the lead establishment. This system will enable one (1) PI and as much as 4 (4) co-PIs, together with a minimum of two (2) co-PIs from the lead establishment and a minimum of one (1) co-PI from the non-lead IHE associate. Remaining core members ought to be listed as Different Senior/Key personnel. Core members might embody one (1) co-PI from an {industry} associate, however this isn’t required. Present every core participant’s title, challenge function, departmental and/or institutional/organizational affiliation, and self-discipline(s). The lead evaluator (inside or exterior) should be one of many 10 core members and ought to be recruited by the lead establishment. It’s acceptable to recruit the lead evaluator related to the continuing or accomplished NRT challenge on the non-lead institutional associate however this isn’t a requirement.

3b. Focus Space(s) and Transient Description of the Accomplishments of the NRT Program on the non-lead Institutional Companion: Clearly determine the main target space(s) of the challenge and justify inclusion of the continuing/accomplished NRT challenge on this proposal by highlighting the accomplishments of the chosen NRT challenge that shall be leveraged to perform the targets of this challenge. The non-lead associate should have demonstrated experience in creating an revolutionary analysis and traineeship mannequin that addresses the main target space that the challenge crew has recognized for this challenge. Moreover, the crew (lead establishment and/or non-lead associate) should display prior profitable collaboration with two to 3 {industry} companions who’re recruited to take part within the challenge. Clearly deal with the experiential studying alternatives that had been or are being supplied to trainees on the non-lead associate in collaboration with {industry} companions within the ongoing/accomplished NRT challenge and the way these alternatives shall be leveraged to develop experiential alternatives for the trainees within the deliberate program on the lead establishment. The dedication of the {industry} associate(s) for the proposed actions within the proposal ought to be clearly articulated within the Trade Help Letters. Further particulars are supplied under.

3c. Imaginative and prescient and Objectives: Describe the overarching analysis theme, imaginative and prescient, and targets of the proposed NRT-IPP with a deal with implementing new approaches to coaching STEM graduate college students within the focused focus space on the lead establishment although a complete traineeship mannequin that may result in creating new graduate-level alternatives (grasp’s program, certificates, or observe in an current grasp’s or PhD program, and many others.) within the focus space on the lead establishment. Clearly describe how: (i) this NRT-IPP will create graduate-level alternatives (grasp’s diploma, certificates, or a observe inside an current grasp’s or PhD program) on the lead establishment, (ii) experiential studying shall be included into the proposed graduate alternative leveraging the profitable experiences of the challenge crew, and (iii) prior {industry} collaboration of the management crew (lead and non-lead associate(s)) shall be leveraged to recruit {industry} companions for this challenge. Proposers ought to describe how the NRT challenge would profit STEM graduate college students past the NRT trainees on the lead establishment and the way coaching improvements from this system shall be communicated broadly past each the lead establishment and non-lead institutional associate. Proposals must also deal with implications of the proposed NRT challenge for broadening participation in STEM packages and careers to incorporate college students from underrepresented teams.

3d. Group and Administration: Current the plans for the group and administration of the NRT-IPP challenge, together with the tasks of key personnel and reporting strains at each the lead establishment and non-lead institutional associate. Describe how the management crew will foster a way of group amongst challenge members (school, trainees, evaluator(s), workers, and collaborators) from the lead establishment, non-lead associate, and {industry} companions. The PI should possess the challenge administration expertise mandatory to steer and administer the challenge; core groups ought to symbolize related experience in the entire main fields engaged via the challenge. Tasks ought to embody a full-time Undertaking Coordinator (75%-100%) on the lead establishment as a member of the administration crew. Proposers from the lead establishment ought to clearly determine formal mechanisms for recurring, substantive communication with directors (e.g., division chairs, faculty deans, graduate college dean(s), provost, and others) about any institutional boundaries in implementing the proposed graduate alternative on the establishment.

3e. Schooling and Coaching: The NRT Program focuses on creating improvements in STEM graduate schooling inside a traineeship setting to organize the scientists and engineers of the longer term. Describe the non-lead associate’s traineeship mannequin and the experiential studying elements that shall be included, together with the justification and rationale for his or her inclusion. Describe how non-lead associate’s experiences shall be leveraged to develop the NRT challenge on the lead establishment. Approaches ought to be revolutionary, evidence-based, and aligned with the wants of the lead establishment within the chosen focus space. Establish what’s missing within the present approaches to STEM graduate schooling nationally and on the lead establishment and the way this NRT challenge will assist deal with these points. Tasks ought to be aligned with the mission of the lead establishment, and proposals ought to embody proof of alignment to assist the anticipated consequence of creating sustainable programmatic capability on the lead establishment.

The proposal ought to describe the STEM graduate inhabitants that shall be served on the lead establishment. Accordingly, the proposal ought to specify the anticipated numbers of NRT trainees on the lead establishment supported with NRT stipends and NRT trainees not supported with NRT stipends. An estimate of the variety of different STEM graduate college students anticipated to take a number of of the NRT challenge’s components must also be supplied. Skilled trainees related to the continuing or accomplished NRT challenge from the non-lead associate will also be funded via the NRT-IPP Program, notably if these trainees assist implement the proposed NRT-IPP challenge on the lead establishment.

Tasks should articulate specific approaches to supply trainees with coaching and vocational counseling for industry-related careers. Moreover, preparation and structured use of annual up to date particular person improvement plans is required and should be licensed in annual and last annual challenge studies. See PAPPG Chapter VII.B.7.

It’s anticipated that the challenge will lead to a sustainable programmatic capability on the lead establishment. Subsequently, all proposals ought to embody a plan to institutionalize efficient coaching components after award expiration and supply acceptable supplementary documentation of institutional assist for such efforts. See Part 6a, under.

3f. Required Expertise and Competencies: Tasks should present specific, formal coaching to challenge trainees in communication, crew science, and ethics. Clearly articulate how the skilled improvement actions developed on the non-lead associate shall be adopted/tailored to supply coaching in these three required expertise (and different expertise as acceptable) to the trainees from the lead establishment. Present separate sub-headings for: 3f(i) Communication, 3f(ii) Workforce Science, and 3f(iii) Ethics when discussing these skilled improvement elements. Moreover, embody one other sub-section (3f(iv)) to debate Further expertise (e.g., interdisciplinary downside fixing, challenge administration, management, organizational, entrepreneurship, and many others.) which are notably related to the proposed profession paths of trainees within the chosen focus space.

3g. Trade Partnership Plan: Lively engagement of the {industry} companions is a essential element of the NRT-IPP Program. The challenge crew should display a confirmed observe report of working with {industry} to supply experiential studying alternatives for the trainees. Experiences of the crew (lead establishment and non-lead associate) ought to be leveraged to develop the traineeship program, together with experiential studying alternatives for the trainees. Clearly describe the experiential studying element of the traineeship program that shall be applied on the lead establishment. Help letter(s) from the {industry} companions should be included that may clearly spotlight the roles and dedication of those companions in implementing the NRT challenge in collaboration with the lead establishment and non-lead associate. See part 9 for extra particulars.

3h. Main Analysis Efforts: Describe examples of the analysis initiatives that the NRT will catalyze on the lead establishment via the proposed collaboration with the non-lead institutional associate and {industry} companions. Clearly describe the linkages between these analysis initiatives and the analysis initiatives of the continuing or accomplished NRT challenge on the non-lead associate. The analysis initiatives are anticipated to fulfill the necessities for a graduate credential (grasp’s diploma, certificates, or a observe inside an current graduate program) on the lead establishment. Trainees on the lead establishment can have mentors from the lead establishment, non-lead associate, and {industry} companions.

3i. Broader Impacts: The Undertaking Description should include, as a separate part inside the narrative labeled ‘Broader Impacts’, a dialogue of how each the coaching elements and the main analysis efforts will contribute extra broadly to the achievement of societally related outcomes. Such outcomes within the context of this pilot for a possible new observe for NRT embody however aren’t restricted to: improvement of a various, globally aggressive STEM workforce within the focus space; participation of the total spectrum of various expertise in STEM; enhanced infrastructure for industry-relevant analysis and schooling on the lead establishment; elevated partnerships and collaborations between academia and {industry}. Proposers ought to point out how the challenge will influence the coaching of STEM graduate college students past the disciplines and lead establishment described within the proposal. Additional, potential contributions to the event and adoption of evidence-based instructing and studying practices, and analysis on efficient traineeship fashions for graduate schooling within the focus areas at non-R1 establishments ought to be clearly articulated.

3j. Recruitment, Mentoring, and Retention: Experiences of the non-lead associate ought to be leveraged in creating plans for recruiting, mentoring, and retaining trainees with a specific emphasis on broadening participation of the total spectrum of various expertise in STEM by participating members of teams underrepresented within the focus space. Clearly describe how the teachings realized by the non-lead associate on this space shall be leveraged to develop efficient recruitment, mentoring and retention plans for trainees on the lead establishment.

3k. Efficiency Evaluation/Undertaking Analysis: Tasks ought to embody plans to judge the success of the analysis and traineeship actions. Experiences of the non-lead associate ought to be appropriately leveraged to develop the analysis plan. Analysis ought to be led by an unbiased evaluator recruited by the lead establishment. The proposal ought to determine particular competencies and supposed outcomes together with efficiency measures and an analysis timetable. Particular consideration ought to be given to judge the effectiveness of the partnership (the lead establishment and non-lead associate and the {industry} companions). The analysis plan ought to describe how and when evaluation outcomes could be shared with the challenge members, together with trainees and institutional administration. Describe mechanisms for normal suggestions from the evaluator(s) and the trainees to the management crew and the way that suggestions will inform the challenge implementation practices on the lead establishment. Proposals ought to embody plans for speaking evaluation outcomes each inside the NRT group and extra broadly via publications {and professional} conferences. Awardees ought to be ready to contribute to NRT program analysis, together with participation in systematic information assortment through NRT monitoring methods, contributions at NSF-sponsored PI conferences, and periodic cross-award video conferences to share insights, efficient practices, and analysis findings.

Undertaking evaluator(s) could be from an inside or exterior evaluation unit or consulting entity. If a challenge chooses to contain a person from the lead establishment or non-lead associate within the analysis, then the challenge should present justification and clarify how lack of bias is ensured. The lead program evaluator from the continuing or accomplished NRT challenge on the non-lead associate could be recruited to steer this system analysis. The lead evaluator should be listed as one of many 10 core members. This requirement doesn’t influence institutional eligibility, as organizations collaborating solely as challenge evaluators are excluded from the eligibility restrict (see Part IV).

3l. Unbiased Advisory Committee: An unbiased advisory committee that features people inside to the lead establishment and non-lead-partner, exterior to the establishment(s), and representatives of the {industry} companions is required to supply steering frequently. The committee should meet repeatedly (a minimum of twice/yr) to supply recommendation to the management crew primarily based on the evaluator’s findings and different formal and casual info obtained from the management crew, different members, trainees, and directors.

3m. Deliverables:

3m(i) Lead Establishment: (1) A sequence of analysis initiatives within the focus space(s) which are appropriate for trainees pursuing the proposed graduate alternatives on the lead establishment, (2) An establishment-level graduate-level alternative (a brand new certificates or a brand new observe inside an current graduate program, and many others.) within the focus space that shall be awarded to the trainees collaborating in this system on the lead establishment, (3) A plan demonstrating the demand and feasibility for a brand new grasp’s program within the focus space on the lead establishment on the finish of yr three, and (4) An in depth plan (a) to develop the brand new grasp’s program on the lead establishment together with a plan for sustaining this grasp’s program past the grant interval if the end result of (3) signifies feasibility – or, if the feasibility plan identifies inadequate employer or scholar demand or different vital boundaries, then – (b) to maintain the developed graduate alternative (2) on the lead establishment past the grant interval.

3m(ii) Non-lead Companion Establishment: (1) Inclusion of NRT trainees who actively take part on this partnership for his or her analysis and traineeship actions, (2) A plan for sustaining the profitable components of the partnered NRT challenge and scaling it up at regional and/or nationwide ranges, and (3) Articulation of greatest practices disseminated within the type of a peer-reviewed publication and industry-relevant publication concerning improvement of a profitable NRT collaboration mannequin between an energetic/profitable NRT establishment and a non-R1 establishment.

3n. Latest Scholar Coaching Experiences: Describe the expertise of the PI and co-PIs/senior personnel with main or collaborating in STEM schooling and coaching over the previous 5 years, notably emphasizing classes realized by the non-lead associate implementing NRT program actions at their establishment.

3o. Outcomes from Prior Help: The PI and co-PIs who’ve obtained NSF funding (together with any present funding) from an award with an finish date up to now 5 years should present info on the prior award, together with the challenge’s main achievements and relevance to the proposed NRT challenge. People who’ve obtained multiple prior award should report on the award most carefully associated to the proposal. A whole bibliographic quotation for every publication ensuing from an NSF award should be included in both the Outcomes from Prior NSF Help part or within the References Cited part of the proposal.

Further Proposal Components

The knowledge that follows offers steering concerning further required components of the proposal package deal. These components aren’t a part of the Undertaking Description

4. Finances and Finances Justification: Present an annual funds for as much as 5 years. The system will robotically generate a cumulative funds. The cumulative proposed funds could be as much as $4,500,000 (most). The non-lead IHE associate can request a most of 30% of the overall request quantity. The proposed funds ought to be in step with the prices to develop, provide, administer, and consider this system components (e.g., programs, workshops, internships) and the variety of trainees supported. Requests for trainee assist and programmatic components should be commensurate with the targets specified within the proposal. All journey (each home and overseas) should be justified. For overseas journey, the proposed locations should be included within the funds justification.

4a. Trainee Help: Embody all trainee assist (i.e., stipend, prices of schooling, journey, supplies and provides wanted particularly for trainees) as Participant Help Prices within the funds. The NRT stipend and schooling prices are supposed for these trainees (i.e., graduate college students) whose analysis is aligned with the challenge’s focus space(s). Trainees receiving stipend and cost-of-education assist (i.e., NRT-funded trainees) should be full-time college students and be United States residents, nationals, or authorized everlasting residents. The NSF minimal contribution to NRT stipends is $37K per yr per NRT-funded trainee for a 12-month appointment. Funded trainees are anticipated to obtain at a minimal, the equal of 1 yr of $37K stipend assist that could be distributed over their traineeship tenure. NRT-funded trainees can’t be charged tuition or every other required prices of schooling whereas they’re receiving an NRT stipend. Thus, the funds ought to embody customary prices of schooling (i.e., tuition and required charges) for NRT-funded trainees. Further prices for all trainees (NRT-funded and non-NRT-funded) to take part in programmatic and coaching components ought to be designated as Journey, Subsistence, or Different Participant Help Prices within the funds.

4b. College/Senior Personnel Salaries: Wage assist should be in step with contributions to the traineeship. Help for postdoctoral fellows just isn’t allowed until they explicitly have an educational or different coaching function.

4c. Different Finances Gadgets: Different funds requests (e.g., non-trainee journey, tools, and analysis assist) should mirror the coaching focus of this system, together with programmatic components and non-NRT-stipend-supported trainee assist. Tasks ought to funds for an NRT Undertaking Coordinator (75%-100% appointment) and an evaluator. The funds ought to embody funds for the PI, one trainee, the Undertaking Coordinator, and an evaluator to attend the annual NRT conferences plus funds for the PI to attend a one-day orientation assembly for brand new PIs in Washington, DC in the course of the first yr of the challenge.

5. Amenities, Tools, and Different Assets: Present an outline of the services and main instrumentation which are accessible for coaching functions.

6. Particular Info and Supplementary Documentation: Some supplementary paperwork are required (e.g., institutional assist letter, letters of collaboration for sure organizations that seem within the funds, and Information Administration and Sharing Plan), whereas others are elective (e.g., associate letters of assist [maximum one page]). Letters of collaboration have obligatory eligibility language that should be added. Proposals that lack required supplementary paperwork or that exceed the web page limitations described under shall be returned with out overview.

6a. Letters of Help and Collaboration: (i) Institutional Letters of Help: Two letters are required, every as much as two pages in size; one from the suitable senior college administrator(s) on the lead establishment and the second from the suitable senior college administrator(s) on the non-lead IHE associate. These letters ought to be submitted as a Supplementary Doc and will describe institutional assist for the traineeship program and the way profitable programmatic components and any related institutional insurance policies and infrastructure shall be sustained after award closure. The letter from the lead establishment should describe institutional assist that shall be supplied to the challenge crew for the event and approval of the graduate alternatives this system creates. Moreover, each Institutional Help letters ought to describe the assist that shall be supplied to the challenge crew for enhancing the collaborative actions between the lead establishment and non-lead institutional associate. (ii) Letters of Help (Different): As much as eight different letters of assist, every no multiple web page lengthy, could also be supplied from associate organizations or establishments, together with worldwide entities, that may play a major collaborative function within the challenge. Every {industry} associate recognized within the proposal should present a letter. These letters of assist ought to element particular commitments and contributions (e.g., internships, laboratory entry, mentorship, time dedication, and many others.) to the NRT challenge. (iii) Letters of Collaboration: A letter of collaboration (see the PAPPG) is required from every NRT-eligible associate group that seems within the funds. A letter of collaboration from the non-lead IHE NRT associate just isn’t wanted since they’ll present an institutional assist letter. Every letter of collaboration should embody the next acceptable assertion on the conclusion of the letter: “We comply with associate on this NRT challenge as a sub-awardee.” No letters ought to embody endorsements or advocacy for the challenge.

6b. Information Administration and Sharing Plan: All proposals are required to incorporate a Information Administration and Sharing Plan of as much as two pages as a separate Supplementary Doc. The Information Administration Plan ought to describe how the challenge would conform to the NSF coverage on dissemination and sharing of analysis outcomes in addition to any instructional merchandise (e.g., curricular supplies). This plan shall be reviewed utilizing the mental advantage and broader impacts overview standards. Information administration necessities and plans related to Directorates, Places of work, Divisions, Packages or different NSF models can be found on the NSF web site at https://www.nsf.gov/bfa/dias/coverage/dmp.jsp. The PI ought to comply with the information administration necessities and plans for the Directorate, Workplace, Division, Program, or different NSF unit most carefully aligned with the analysis theme of the NRT traineeship.

6c. Mentoring Plan: A Mentoring Plan is required for graduate college students who obtain NRT assist and for proposals that request funding to assist postdoctoral students; the inclusion of postdoctoral students is allowed provided that they take part in an educational or different coaching capability.

No different gadgets or appendices are to be included. Full proposals containing gadgets, aside from these required above or by the PAPPG, won’t be accepted or shall be returned with out overview.

B. Budgetary Info

Price Sharing:

Inclusion of voluntary dedicated price sharing is prohibited.

Different Budgetary Limitations:

Not more than 30% of the overall award funds could be supplied to the non-lead IHE associate.

C. Due Dates

D. Analysis.gov/Grants.gov Necessities

For Proposals Submitted Through Analysis.gov:

To organize and submit a proposal through Analysis.gov, see detailed technical directions accessible at: https://www.analysis.gov/research-portal/appmanager/base/desktop?_nfpb=true&_pageLabel=research_node_display&_nodePath=/researchGov/Service/Desktop/ProposalPreparationandSubmission.html. For Analysis.gov person assist, name the Analysis.gov Assist Desk at 1-800-381-1532 or e-mail [email protected]. The Analysis.gov Assist Desk solutions basic technical questions associated to the usage of the Analysis.gov system. Particular questions associated to this program solicitation ought to be referred to the NSF program workers contact(s) listed in Part VIII of this funding alternative.

For Proposals Submitted Through Grants.gov:

Earlier than utilizing Grants.gov for the primary time, every group should register to create an institutional profile. As soon as registered, the applicant’s group can then apply for any federal grant on the Grants.gov web site. Complete details about utilizing Grants.gov is offered on the Grants.gov Applicant Assets webpage: https://www.grants.gov/internet/grants/candidates.html. As well as, the NSF Grants.gov Utility Information (see hyperlink in Part V.A) offers directions concerning the technical preparation of proposals through Grants.gov. For Grants.gov person assist, contact the Grants.gov Contact Middle at 1-800-518-4726 or by e-mail: [email protected]. The Grants.gov Contact Middle solutions basic technical questions associated to the usage of Grants.gov. Particular questions associated to this program solicitation ought to be referred to the NSF program workers contact(s) listed in Part VIII of this solicitation.

Submitting the Proposal: As soon as all paperwork have been accomplished, the Approved Organizational Consultant (AOR) should submit the applying to Grants.gov and confirm the specified funding alternative and company to which the applying is submitted. The AOR should then signal and submit the applying to Grants.gov. The finished software shall be transferred to Analysis.gov for additional processing.

The NSF Grants.gov Proposal Processing in Analysis.gov informational web page offers submission steering to candidates and hyperlinks to useful sources together with the NSF Grants.gov Utility Information, Grants.gov Proposal Processing in Analysis.gov how-to information, and Grants.gov Submitted Proposals Often Requested Questions. Grants.gov proposals should move all NSF pre-check and post-check validations with the intention to be accepted by Analysis.gov at NSF.

When submitting through Grants.gov, NSF strongly recommends candidates provoke proposal submission a minimum of 5 enterprise days upfront of a deadline to permit enough time to deal with NSF compliance errors and resubmissions by 5:00 p.m. submitting group’s native time on the deadline. Please notice that some errors can’t be corrected in Grants.gov. As soon as a proposal passes pre-checks however fails any post-check, an applicant can solely appropriate and submit the in-progress proposal in Analysis.gov.

Proposers that submitted through Analysis.gov might use Analysis.gov to confirm the standing of their submission to NSF. For proposers that submitted through Grants.gov, till an software has been obtained and validated by NSF, the Approved Organizational Consultant might verify the standing of an software on Grants.gov. After proposers have obtained an e-mail notification from NSF, Analysis.gov ought to be used to verify the standing of an software.

VI. NSF Proposal Processing And Evaluate Procedures

Proposals obtained by NSF are assigned to the suitable NSF program for acknowledgement and, in the event that they meet NSF necessities, for overview. All proposals are fastidiously reviewed by a scientist, engineer, or educator serving as an NSF Program Officer, and normally by three to 10 different individuals outdoors NSF both as advert hoc reviewers, panelists, or each, who’re consultants within the specific fields represented by the proposal. These reviewers are chosen by Program Officers charged with oversight of the overview course of. Proposers are invited to recommend names of individuals they imagine are particularly nicely certified to overview the proposal and/or individuals they would like not overview the proposal. These strategies might function one supply within the reviewer choice course of on the Program Officer’s discretion. Submission of such names, nonetheless, is elective. Care is taken to make sure that reviewers don’t have any conflicts of curiosity with the proposal. As well as, Program Officers might receive feedback from website visits earlier than recommending last motion on proposals. Senior NSF workers additional overview suggestions for awards. A flowchart that depicts all the NSF proposal and award course of (and related timeline) is included in PAPPG Exhibit III-1.

A complete description of the Basis’s advantage overview course of is offered on the NSF web site at: https://www.nsf.gov/bfa/dias/coverage/merit_review/.

Proposers must also pay attention to core methods which are important to the achievement of NSF’s mission, as articulated in Main the World in Discovery and Innovation, STEM Expertise Improvement and the Supply of Advantages from Analysis – NSF Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years (FY) 2022 – 2026. These methods are built-in in this system planning and implementation course of, of which proposal overview is one half. NSF’s mission is especially well-implemented via the combination of analysis and schooling and broadening participation in NSF packages, initiatives, and actions.

One of many strategic aims in assist of NSF’s mission is to foster integration of analysis and schooling via the packages, initiatives, and actions it helps at educational and analysis establishments. These establishments should recruit, practice, and put together a various STEM workforce to advance the frontiers of science and take part within the U.S. technology-based financial system. NSF’s contribution to the nationwide innovation ecosystem is to supply cutting-edge analysis underneath the steering of the Nation’s most inventive scientists and engineers. NSF additionally helps improvement of a robust science, know-how, engineering, and arithmetic (STEM) workforce by investing in constructing the data that informs enhancements in STEM instructing and studying.

NSF’s mission requires the broadening of alternatives and increasing participation of teams, establishments, and geographic areas which are underrepresented in STEM disciplines, which is crucial to the well being and vitality of science and engineering. NSF is dedicated to this precept of variety and deems it central to the packages, initiatives, and actions it considers and helps.

A. Benefit Evaluate Ideas and Standards

The Nationwide Science Basis strives to spend money on a sturdy and various portfolio of initiatives that creates new data and allows breakthroughs in understanding throughout all areas of science and engineering analysis and schooling. To determine which initiatives to assist, NSF depends on a advantage overview course of that comes with consideration of each the technical elements of a proposed challenge and its potential to contribute extra broadly to advancing NSF’s mission “to advertise the progress of science; to advance the nationwide well being, prosperity, and welfare; to safe the nationwide protection; and for different functions.” NSF makes each effort to conduct a good, aggressive, clear advantage overview course of for the collection of initiatives.

1. Benefit Evaluate Ideas

These rules are to be given due diligence by PIs and organizations when making ready proposals and managing initiatives, by reviewers when studying and evaluating proposals, and by NSF program workers when figuring out whether or not or to not advocate proposals for funding and whereas overseeing awards. On condition that NSF is the first federal company charged with nurturing and supporting excellence in primary analysis and schooling, the next three rules apply:

All NSF initiatives ought to be of the very best high quality and have the potential to advance, if not remodel, the frontiers of information.
NSF initiatives, within the combination, ought to contribute extra broadly to reaching societal targets. These “Broader Impacts” could also be achieved via the analysis itself, via actions which are immediately associated to particular analysis initiatives, or via actions which are supported by, however are complementary to, the challenge. The challenge actions could also be primarily based on beforehand established and/or revolutionary strategies and approaches, however in both case should be nicely justified.
Significant evaluation and analysis of NSF funded initiatives ought to be primarily based on acceptable metrics, conserving in thoughts the probably correlation between the impact of broader impacts and the sources supplied to implement initiatives. If the dimensions of the exercise is proscribed, analysis of that exercise in isolation just isn’t prone to be significant. Thus, assessing the effectiveness of those actions might greatest be completed at a better, extra aggregated, stage than the person challenge.

With respect to the third precept, even when evaluation of Broader Impacts outcomes for specific initiatives is completed at an aggregated stage, PIs are anticipated to be accountable for finishing up the actions described within the funded challenge. Thus, particular person initiatives ought to embody clearly acknowledged targets, particular descriptions of the actions that the PI intends to do, and a plan in place to doc the outputs of these actions.

These three advantage overview rules present the idea for the advantage overview standards, in addition to a context inside which the customers of the standards can higher perceive their intent.

2. Benefit Evaluate Standards

All NSF proposals are evaluated via use of the 2 Nationwide Science Board permitted advantage overview standards. In some cases, nonetheless, NSF will make use of further standards as required to focus on the particular aims of sure packages and actions.

The 2 advantage overview standards are listed under. Each standards are to be given full consideration in the course of the overview and decision-making processes; every criterion is critical however neither, by itself, is adequate. Subsequently, proposers should absolutely deal with each standards. (PAPPG Chapter II.D.2.d(i). incorporates further info to be used by proposers in improvement of the Undertaking Description part of the proposal). Reviewers are strongly inspired to overview the standards, together with PAPPG Chapter II.D.2.d(i), previous to the overview of a proposal.

When evaluating NSF proposals, reviewers shall be requested to think about what the proposers need to do, why they need to do it, how they plan to do it, how they’ll know in the event that they succeed, and what advantages may accrue if the challenge is profitable. These points apply each to the technical elements of the proposal and the way in which by which the challenge might make broader contributions. To that finish, reviewers shall be requested to judge all proposals in opposition to two standards:

Mental Benefit: The Mental Benefit criterion encompasses the potential to advance data; and
Broader Impacts: The Broader Impacts criterion encompasses the potential to profit society and contribute to the achievement of particular, desired societal outcomes.

The next components ought to be thought of within the overview for each standards:

What’s the potential for the proposed exercise to

Advance data and understanding inside its personal discipline or throughout totally different fields (Mental Benefit); and
Profit society or advance desired societal outcomes (Broader Impacts)?


To what extent do the proposed actions recommend and discover inventive, unique, or probably transformative ideas?
Is the plan for finishing up the proposed actions well-reasoned, well-organized, and primarily based on a sound rationale? Does the plan incorporate a mechanism to evaluate success?
How nicely certified is the person, crew, or group to conduct the proposed actions?
Are there enough sources accessible to the PI (both on the house group or via collaborations) to hold out the proposed actions?

Broader impacts could also be achieved via the analysis itself, via the actions which are immediately associated to particular analysis initiatives, or via actions which are supported by, however are complementary to, the challenge. NSF values the development of scientific data and actions that contribute to achievement of societally related outcomes. Such outcomes embody, however aren’t restricted to: full participation of ladies, individuals with disabilities, and different underrepresented teams in science, know-how, engineering, and arithmetic (STEM); improved STEM schooling and educator improvement at any stage; elevated public scientific literacy and public engagement with science and know-how; improved well-being of people in society; improvement of a various, globally aggressive STEM workforce; elevated partnerships between academia, {industry}, and others; improved nationwide safety; elevated financial competitiveness of the US; and enhanced infrastructure for analysis and schooling.

Proposers are reminded that reviewers will even be requested to overview the Information Administration and Sharing Plan and the Mentoring Plan, as acceptable.

Further Solicitation Particular Evaluate Standards

Integration of Analysis and Schooling

Does the proposal deal with coaching wants that aren’t presently accessible on the establishment(s) and/or in disciplines associated to the proposed challenge’s focus? Are there clear and compelling connections between the coaching components and the main target space? Is there a transparent plan to supply a graduate credential to members earlier than a grasp’s diploma program is absolutely developed and permitted? Is there clear integration of analysis within the focus space with the timeline, necessities, and milestones of the credential-bearing packages, together with the deliberate grasp’s diploma? Is there proof that program actions will persist past the length of the award?

Trade Engagement

What’s the high quality of the challenge crew’s prior engagement with the {industry} companions recognized within the proposal? Do assist letters from the {industry} companions and associated proposal content material clearly determine their function and dedication for the proposed NRT program? Are plans for continued {industry} engagement to assist sustainability inside graduate program(s) on the lead establishment included within the proposal that?

Skilled Improvement

What’s the breadth and high quality of the plan to supply NRT trainees with skilled improvement coaching for a spread of analysis and research-related profession pathways, each inside and outdoors academia, with an emphasis on {industry}? Does the challenge present the coaching in communication, crew science, collaboration, and ethics? Are the coaching expectations adequate, and is the coaching structured in such a approach that they won’t hinder trainee analysis or diploma progress?

Integrating Range into NSF Packages, Tasks, and Actions

Are the recruiting and retention plans prone to broaden participation? Is there proof of adequate engagement of key personnel? Are collaborations and/or current packages appropriately engaged?

Analysis

Does the analysis plan embody supposed outcomes, efficiency measures, benchmarks, and an analysis timetable, in addition to an outline of how formative analysis will enhance follow? Are each analysis and academic actions addressed by the analysis plan? Is there a plan to share insights, practices, and findings broadly? Will the analysis generate proof to tell efforts to maintain this system?

B. Evaluate and Choice Course of

Proposals submitted in response to this program solicitation shall be reviewed by
Advert hoc Evaluate and/or Panel Evaluate.

Reviewers shall be requested to judge proposals utilizing two Nationwide Science Board permitted advantage overview standards and, if relevant, further program particular standards. A abstract ranking and accompanying narrative will typically be accomplished and submitted by every reviewer and/or panel. The Program Officer assigned to handle the proposal’s overview will take into account the recommendation of reviewers and can formulate a suggestion.

After scientific, technical and programmatic overview and consideration of acceptable components, the NSF Program Officer recommends to the cognizant Division Director whether or not the proposal ought to be declined or really helpful for award. NSF strives to have the ability to inform proposers whether or not their proposals have been declined or really helpful for funding inside six months. Massive or notably advanced proposals or proposals from new recipients might require further overview and processing time. The time interval begins on the deadline or goal date, or receipt date, whichever is later. The interval ends when the Division Director acts upon the Program Officer’s suggestion.

After programmatic approval has been obtained, the proposals really helpful for funding shall be forwarded to the Division of Grants and Agreements or the Division of Acquisition and Cooperative Help for overview of enterprise, monetary, and coverage implications. After an administrative overview has occurred, Grants and Agreements Officers carry out the processing and issuance of a grant or different settlement. Proposers are cautioned that solely a Grants and Agreements Officer might make commitments, obligations or awards on behalf of NSF or authorize the expenditure of funds. No dedication on the a part of NSF ought to be inferred from technical or budgetary discussions with a NSF Program Officer. A Principal Investigator or group that makes monetary or personnel commitments within the absence of a grant or cooperative settlement signed by the NSF Grants and Agreements Officer does so at their very own danger.

As soon as an award or declination resolution has been made, Principal Investigators are supplied suggestions about their proposals. In all circumstances, opinions are handled as confidential paperwork. Verbatim copies of opinions, excluding the names of the reviewers or any reviewer-identifying info, are despatched to the Principal Investigator/Undertaking Director by the Program Officer. As well as, the proposer will obtain a proof of the choice to award or decline funding.

VII. Award Administration Info

A. Notification of the Award

Notification of the award is made to the submitting group by an NSF Grants and Agreements Officer. Organizations whose proposals are declined shall be suggested as promptly as doable by the cognizant NSF Program administering this system. Verbatim copies of opinions, not together with the identification of the reviewer, shall be supplied robotically to the Principal Investigator. (See Part VI.B. for extra info on the overview course of.)

B. Award Situations

An NSF award consists of: (1) the award discover, which incorporates any particular provisions relevant to the award and any numbered amendments thereto; (2) the funds, which signifies the quantities, by classes of expense, on which NSF has primarily based its assist (or in any other case communicates any particular approvals or disapprovals of proposed expenditures); (3) the proposal referenced within the award discover; (4) the relevant award situations, resembling Grant Common Situations (GC-1)*; or Analysis Phrases and Situations* and (5) any announcement or different NSF issuance that could be included by reference within the award discover. Cooperative agreements are also administered in accordance with NSF Cooperative Settlement Monetary and Administrative Phrases and Situations (CA-FATC) and the relevant Programmatic Phrases and Situations. NSF awards are electronically signed by an NSF Grants and Agreements Officer and transmitted electronically to the group through e-mail.

*These paperwork could also be accessed electronically on NSF’s Web site at https://www.nsf.gov/awards/managing/award_conditions.jsp?org=NSF. Paper copies could also be obtained from the NSF Publications Clearinghouse, phone (703) 292-8134 or by e-mail from [email protected].

Extra complete info on NSF Award Situations and different vital info on the administration of NSF awards is contained within the NSF Proposal & Award Insurance policies & Procedures Information (PAPPG) Chapter VII, accessible electronically on the NSF Web site at https://www.nsf.gov/publications/pub_summ.jsp?ods_key=pappg.

Administrative and Nationwide Coverage Necessities

Construct America, Purchase America

As expressed in Government Order 14005, Making certain the Future is Made in All of America by All of America’s Employees (86 FR 7475), it’s the coverage of the manager department to make use of phrases and situations of Federal monetary help awards to maximise, in step with legislation, the usage of items, merchandise, and supplies produced in, and providers provided in, the US.

According to the necessities of the Construct America, Purchase America Act (Pub. L. 117-58, Division G, Title IX, Subtitle A, November 15, 2021), no funding made accessible via this funding alternative could also be obligated for an award until all iron, metal, manufactured merchandise, and building supplies used within the challenge are produced in the US. For extra info, go to NSF’s Construct America, Purchase America webpage.

C. Reporting Necessities

For all multi-year grants (together with each normal and persevering with grants), the Principal Investigator should submit an annual challenge report back to the cognizant Program Officer no later than 90 days previous to the tip of the present funds interval. (Some packages or awards require submission of extra frequent challenge studies). No later than 120 days following expiration of a grant, the PI is also required to submit a last annual challenge report, and a challenge outcomes report for most of the people.

Failure to supply the required annual or last annual challenge studies, or the challenge outcomes report, will delay NSF overview and processing of any future funding increments in addition to any pending proposals for all recognized PIs and co-PIs on a given award. PIs ought to study the codecs of the required studies upfront to guarantee availability of required information.

PIs are required to make use of NSF’s digital project-reporting system, accessible via Analysis.gov, for preparation and submission of annual and last annual challenge studies. Such studies present info on accomplishments, challenge members (particular person and organizational), publications, and different particular merchandise and impacts of the challenge. Submission of the report through Analysis.gov constitutes certification by the PI that the contents of the report are correct and full. The challenge outcomes report additionally should be ready and submitted utilizing Analysis.gov. This report serves as a quick abstract, ready particularly for the general public, of the character and outcomes of the challenge. This report shall be posted on the NSF web site precisely as it’s submitted by the PI.

Extra complete info on NSF Reporting Necessities and different vital info on the administration of NSF awards is contained within the NSF Proposal & Award Insurance policies & Procedures Information (PAPPG) Chapter VII, accessible electronically on the NSF Web site at https://www.nsf.gov/publications/pub_summ.jsp?ods_key=pappg.

VIII. Company Contacts

Please notice that this system contact info is present on the time of publishing. See program web site for any updates to the factors of contact.

Common inquiries concerning this program ought to be made to:

For questions associated to the usage of NSF methods contact:

NSF Assist Desk: 1-800-381-1532


Analysis.gov Assist Desk e-mail: [email protected]

For questions referring to Grants.gov contact:

Grants.gov Contact Middle: If the Approved Organizational Representatives (AOR) has not obtained a affirmation message from Grants.gov inside 48 hours of submission of software, please contact through phone: 1-800-518-4726; e-mail: [email protected].

IX. Different Info

The NSF web site offers probably the most complete supply of data on NSF Directorates (together with contact info), packages and funding alternatives. Use of this web site by potential proposers is strongly inspired. As well as, “NSF Replace” is an information-delivery system designed to maintain potential proposers and different events apprised of recent NSF funding alternatives and publications, vital modifications in proposal and award insurance policies and procedures, and upcoming NSF Grants Conferences. Subscribers are knowledgeable via e-mail or the person’s Internet browser every time new publications are issued that match their recognized pursuits. “NSF Replace” additionally is offered on NSF’s web site.

Grants.gov offers an extra digital functionality to seek for Federal government-wide grant alternatives. NSF funding alternatives could also be accessed through this mechanism. Additional info on Grants.gov could also be obtained at https://www.grants.gov.

Associated Packages:

Nationwide Science Basis Analysis Traineeship (NRT) Program

About The Nationwide Science Basis

The Nationwide Science Basis (NSF) is an unbiased Federal company created by the Nationwide Science Basis Act of 1950, as amended (42 USC 1861-75). The Act states the aim of the NSF is “to advertise the progress of science; [and] to advance the nationwide well being, prosperity, and welfare by supporting analysis and schooling in all fields of science and engineering.”

NSF funds analysis and schooling in most fields of science and engineering. It does this via grants and cooperative agreements to greater than 2,000 schools, universities, Okay-12 college methods, companies, casual science organizations and different analysis organizations all through the US. The Basis accounts for about one-fourth of Federal assist to educational establishments for primary analysis.

NSF receives roughly 55,000 proposals every year for analysis, schooling and coaching initiatives, of which roughly 11,000 are funded. As well as, the Basis receives a number of thousand functions for graduate and postdoctoral fellowships. The company operates no laboratories itself however does assist Nationwide Analysis Facilities, person services, sure oceanographic vessels and Arctic and Antarctic analysis stations. The Basis additionally helps cooperative analysis between universities and {industry}, US participation in worldwide scientific and engineering efforts, and academic actions at each educational stage.

Facilitation Awards for Scientists and Engineers with Disabilities (FASED) present funding for particular help or tools to allow individuals with disabilities to work on NSF-supported initiatives. See the NSF Proposal & Award Insurance policies & Procedures Information Chapter II.F.7 for directions concerning preparation of most of these proposals.

The Nationwide Science Basis has Telephonic System for the Deaf (TDD) and Federal Info Relay Service (FIRS) capabilities that allow people with listening to impairments to speak with the Basis about NSF packages, employment or basic info. TDD could also be accessed at (703) 292-5090 and (800) 281-8749, FIRS at (800) 877-8339.

The Nationwide Science Basis Info Middle could also be reached at (703) 292-5111.

The Nationwide Science Basis promotes and advances scientific progress in the US by competitively awarding grants and cooperative agreements for analysis and schooling within the sciences, arithmetic, and engineering.

To get the newest details about program deadlines, to obtain copies of NSF publications, and to entry abstracts of awards, go to the NSF Web site at https://www.nsf.gov

2415 Eisenhower Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22314

For Common Info
(NSF Info Middle):

(703) 292-5111

TDD (for the hearing-impaired):

(703) 292-5090

To Order Publications or Kinds:

Ship an e-mail to:

[email protected]

or phone:

(703) 292-8134

(703) 292-5111

Privateness Act And Public Burden Statements

The knowledge requested on proposal kinds and challenge studies is solicited underneath the authority of the Nationwide Science Basis Act of 1950, as amended. The knowledge on proposal kinds shall be utilized in reference to the collection of certified proposals; and challenge studies submitted by proposers shall be used for program analysis and reporting inside the Government Department and to Congress. The knowledge requested could also be disclosed to certified reviewers and workers assistants as a part of the proposal overview course of; to proposer establishments/grantees to supply or receive information concerning the proposal overview course of, award choices, or the administration of awards; to authorities contractors, consultants, volunteers and researchers and educators as mandatory to finish assigned work; to different authorities companies or different entities needing info concerning proposers or nominees as a part of a joint software overview course of, or with the intention to coordinate packages or coverage; and to a different Federal company, court docket, or social gathering in a court docket or Federal administrative continuing if the federal government is a celebration. Details about Principal Investigators could also be added to the Reviewer file and used to pick potential candidates to function peer reviewers or advisory committee members. See System of Document Notices, NSF-50, “Principal Investigator/Proposal File and Related Data,” and NSF-51, “Reviewer/Proposal File and Related Data.” Submission of the knowledge is voluntary. Failure to supply full and full info, nonetheless, might cut back the potential for receiving an award.

An company might not conduct or sponsor, and an individual just isn’t required to answer, an info assortment until it shows a sound Workplace of Administration and Finances (OMB) management quantity. The OMB management quantity for this assortment is 3145-0058. Public reporting burden for this assortment of data is estimated to common 120 hours per response, together with the time for reviewing directions. Ship feedback concerning the burden estimate and every other facet of this assortment of data, together with strategies for lowering this burden, to:

Suzanne H. Plimpton
Experiences Clearance Officer
Coverage Workplace, Division of Establishment and Award Help
Workplace of Finances, Finance, and Award Administration
Nationwide Science Basis
Alexandria, VA 22314