[U.S. National Science Foundation](https://www.nsf.gov)

November 20, 2023 | November 16, 2026 (current closing date)

Expected ~25 awards; award size and duration vary; 3–5 years possible; no cost sharing required.

Supports fundamental research in plasma physics, spanning laboratory, space, astrophysical, and applied environments.

--- ## Description This program supports research in fundamental plasma physics, with a focus on understanding the collective behavior of large ensembles of free charged particles. Areas of interest include magnetized plasmas, high-energy-density plasmas, low temperature plasmas, strongly coupled plasmas (including dusty and ultra-cold), non-neutral plasmas, and intense field-matter interactions. The program encourages proposals that advance both the theoretical and experimental understanding of plasma phenomena relevant to space physics, astrophysics, materials science, fusion science, accelerator science, and engineering. The program also encourages broader impacts such as increasing diversity in plasma physics and developing or enhancing plasma physics curricula at institutions where such coursework is lacking. Some plasma-related proposals may be better suited for other NSF programs (e.g., atomic/molecular/optical physics, geospace, materials research, manufacturing, environmental engineering), so applicants should review the topical fit before applying. --- ## Due Dates - November 20, 2023 - November 16, 2026 (current closing date for applications) Proposals can be submitted at any time prior to the closing date. --- ## Funding Amount - Approximately 25 awards are expected. - Award size and duration vary depending on the scope and needs of the project. - Typical award durations are 3 years, but proposals for up to 4 or 5 years may be considered for projects requiring extended timelines (consult with the Program Director). - There is no cost sharing or matching requirement. --- ## Eligibility - Eligibility is unrestricted: open to all types of applicants, including higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, government entities, and international collaborators as allowed by NSF policy. - Principal Investigators are encouraged to address diversity, equity, and inclusion in their broader impacts. --- ## Application Process - Proposals must be submitted in accordance with the [NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG)](https://www.nsf.gov/policies/pappg). - Applications are submitted through [Grants.gov](https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/350018) or [Research.gov](https://www.research.gov/). - Proposals should clearly demonstrate the relevance of the research to fundamental plasma physics as outlined by the program. - For projects exceeding 3 years, consult the Program Director before submission. --- ## Additional Information - The Plasma Physics program participates in cross-cutting NSF initiatives such as ECLIPSE, WoU-MMA, and CDS&E. - Proposals may be considered for joint funding with other agencies under existing MOUs. - Proposals governed by other specific solicitations (e.g., NSF CAREER) should be submitted to those programs instead. - The program encourages efforts to broaden participation and curriculum development in plasma physics. --- ## External Links - [Program Details and NSF Description](http://www.nsf.gov/funding/pgm_summ.jsp?pims_id=503252) - [NSF Plasma Physics Program Page](https://www.nsf.gov/funding/opportunities/plasma-physics) - [Division of Physics: Investigator-Initiated Research Projects](https://new.nsf.gov/funding/opportunities/division-physics-investigator-initiated-research) - [NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG)](https://www.nsf.gov/policies/pappg/24-1) - [Apply via Grants.gov](https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/350018) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Email | Phone | Role/Organization | |---------------------------------------- |----------------------------------|-----------------|--------------------------| | Vyacheslav (Slava) Lukin, Program Director | [vlukin@nsf.gov](mailto:vlukin@nsf.gov) | (703) 292-7382 | Division of Physics, NSF | | Jeremiah D. Williams, Program Director | [jdwillia@nsf.gov](mailto:jdwillia@nsf.gov) | (703) 292-4687 | Division of Physics, NSF | | NSF Grants.gov Support | [grantsgovsupport@nsf.gov](mailto:grantsgovsupport@nsf.gov) | — | Technical/Application | | General NSF Info | [info@nsf.gov](mailto:info@nsf.gov) | 1-703-292-5111 | NSF Headquarters |

Plasma Physics

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