National Science Foundation (NSF)
Fiscal year 2020-2024 facts
The National Science Foundation (NSF) plays a key role in advancing fundamental research across science and engineering disciplines through funding both individual and collaborative research efforts, as well as supporting facilities, equipment and educational programs that contribute to workforce development. Established in 1950, NSF funds approximately 24% of all federally supported basic research conducted at U.S. colleges and universities. For comprehensive guidance on proposal preparation and submission, applicants should consult the NSF Proposal and Award Policies and Procedures Guide (PAPPG), which outlines key policies, submission requirements and award administration procedures.
Process of NSF application
Applying for NSF funding is a multi-step process that requires careful preparation and early action. The NSF Roadmap outlines five crucial stages
Resource table
To support faculty and researchers in securing NSF funding, the research development office offers a range of resources.
| Resources | Details | Resource type |
|---|---|---|
| NSF Grant Academy | A training program that helps faculty work with experts to develop strong proposals and successfully apply for NSF funding | Professional development program |
| NSF proposal library | Provides investigators with examples of successfully funded research grants from VCU faculty. The library includes a broad range of research topics from various funding agencies. | Digital library |
| NSF data management | Document detailing how data will be managed and shared. | Online toolkit |
| SciENcv | A guide explaining how to use SciENcv in myNCBI to create the 2024 Common Forms (Biosketch and Current, Pending, and Other Support reports) for NSF and National Institutes of Health (NIH) in their new formats. | Online guide |
| Collaboration tools | A tool designed to aid in the identification of experts, collaborators and partners for your NSF proposals. | Research support |
| Proposal writing guides | Utilize proposal writing guides for NSF applications or request research development support from our team. | Online guide |
| NSF award database | Provides details on all current and previous NSF grants. Users can perform searches using various criteria and also explore information organized by program type. | Database |
| NSF proposal checklist | Provides guidance on preparing proposals for NSF grants, emphasizing the importance of following specific solicitation guidelines, which may differ from standard requirements. It highlights the need to review relevant chapters (II.D for Research proposals and II.F for other types) to ensure compliance, as non-compliant proposals will be rejected or returned without review. | Guidance document |
| Explore VCU Research (EVR) | For discovery of VCU’s expertise and scholarly output | Discovery platform |
Funding opportunities
Funding opportunities are provided through the NSF website, where researchers can find information on funding mechanisms, eligibility criteria and application guidelines. Additional information regarding specific program requirements can be obtained by contacting the relevant NSF program office. Key proposal deadlines and target dates are regularly updated on the NSF website and within individual funding opportunity announcements. Researchers should also refer to the websites of relevant NSF Divisions and Offices for program-specific deadlines and updates.
Faculty can use the embedded Pivot search tool to find funding opportunities (may need to wait a few seconds to load).
Broader Impacts
The broader impacts of a research project are those components that, beyond the advancement of knowledge, have the potential to benefit society and contribute to achievement of specific desired societal outcomes. The NSF requires proposals to address the broader impacts in addition to the intellectual merit of the project.
Frequently asked questions
Proposals that do not comply with NSF guidelines will be rejected or returned without review. To ensure compliance with sponsor requirements, please collaborate with your departmental and central research administrators, allowing sufficient time for thorough review.
Broader impacts are a key component of NSF proposals, demonstrating how the research will benefit society. Use tools like the ARIS Broader Impacts Toolkit to develop strong broader impact statements.
Common issues include missing or incorrectly formatted biosketches, incomplete current and pending support forms, exceeding page limits and missing required sections. Use the NSF Proposal Checklist to ensure compliance before submission.
Generally, NSF aims to inform applicants within 6 months of proposal submission. However, this can vary by program. You can track your proposal status through Research.gov after submission.
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Directorate for Biological Sciences (BIO)
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Supports research to advance understanding of the principles and mechanisms governing life.
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Directorate for Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE)
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Focuses on advances in computing, communications, and information science and engineering.
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Directorate for Engineering (ENG)
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Promotes the progress of engineering research and education to enhance the nation's economic competitiveness and improve quality of life.
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Directorate for Geosciences (GEO)
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Supports research in atmospheric, Earth and ocean sciences, as well as research in geospatial and related technologies.
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Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences (MPS)
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Funds research in mathematics, statistics, physics, astronomy, chemistry and materials science.
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Directorate for Social, Behavioral and Economic Sciences (SBE)
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Supports research to understand human behavior, social and economic systems, and the interactions between people and their environments.
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Directorate for Education and Human Resources (EHR)
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Focuses on enhancing STEM education and workforce development from pre-K through graduate education and beyond.
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Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (TIP)
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Aims to accelerate the translation of research into practical applications and to foster innovation and entrepreneurship.
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To find the right NSF program officer or contact for your specific research or proposal, visit https://www.nsf.gov/awards/who-to-contact.