The U.S. National Science Foundation is an independent federal agency that supports science and engineering in all 50 states and U.S. territories. NSF was established in 1950 by Congress to promote the progress of science, advance the national health, prosperity and welfare, and secure the national defense.
The grant program is designed to enable researchers, especially those in mid-career or later stages (Associate or Full Professor, or equivalent), to explore new research avenues or shift their research focus. By facilitating a sabbatical leave or a similar form of professional development, the program allows these individuals to acquire new scientific or technical expertise that could significantly impact their future research. The funding supports up to six months of the principal investigator's (PI) salary during the initial sabbatical or professional development phase, followed by additional research support for two years after returning to regular academic duties. This initiative seeks to encourage PIs to venture into new areas aligned with the MCB's priorities, enhance their competitiveness in these fields, and contribute to retaining a diverse and engaged scientific workforce. Importantly, priority is given to proposals that show outstanding intellectual merit and broader impacts. Proposals must demonstrate a clear record of achievement, a compelling professional development plan, and a strong rationale for the need for support. Additionally, proposals are required to include backing from the PI’s department, evidenced by a letter from the department chair or equivalent. Projects focusing on the molecular and cellular basis of diseases or treatments are not within the scope of this grant. Instead, preference is given to research that addresses significant questions at the confluence of biology and other disciplines like physics, chemistry, mathematics, computer sciences, and engineering.