Earth Sciences Program
The U.S. National Science Foundation's Earth Sciences Program funds research on Earth's structure, dynamics, and surface processes, supporting studies from the planet's core to its environmental and landscape evolution.
Funder: U.S. National Science Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): August 2026 (Full proposal target date, projected)
Funding Amounts: Typical NSF Earth Sciences awards range from 1–5 years in duration and vary in size depending on project scope; see program page for details.
Summary: Supports fundamental research to advance understanding of Earth's physical, chemical, and surface processes, with an emphasis on the planet's structure, dynamics, and environmental evolution.
Description
The Earth Sciences Program from the U.S. National Science Foundation funds foundational research that deepens scientific understanding of Earth's interior and surface processes, both past and present. The program supports investigations into the physical and chemical mechanisms shaping Earth's structure, dynamics, and composition—from the core to the crust—including tectonics and high-temperature phenomena. It also encourages research into the interactions among hydrologic, geomorphic, and geochemical processes in near-surface environments, with particular focus on water systems and landscape evolution. Projects exploring how these dynamic processes have transformed Earth's life and environments over time, as recorded in the geologic record, are also supported. While the primary focus is on terrestrial processes, proposals related to extra-terrestrial materials or environments may be considered if they advance understanding of Earth-related phenomena.
