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

March 1, 2026 (Full proposals)

Up to $6,000,000 total annually; 10–15 awards per year; typical project duration up to 3 years.

Supports interdisciplinary research developing innovative mathematical, statistical, or computational approaches to address significant biological and public health questions.

--- ## Description The Emerging Mathematics in Biology (eMB) program stimulates fundamental, interdisciplinary, and potentially transformative research at the intersection of mathematics and biology. The program encourages the development of innovative mathematical, statistical, or computational theories, tools, and models to investigate complex and significant questions in biology and public health. Projects may involve novel applications of traditional mathematical approaches or the development of new theories, including those leveraging artificial intelligence, deep learning, or machine learning (AI/DL/ML). Collaborative proposals from interdisciplinary teams are encouraged, as are efforts to train students and postdoctoral researchers at the interface of mathematics and biology. --- ## Due Dates - Full proposals due: March 1, 2026 (and annually thereafter) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Estimated total program funding: Up to $6,000,000 per year - Expected number of awards: 10–15 annually - Typical award duration: Up to 3 years - No cost-sharing or matching required --- ## Eligibility - Open to all categories of proposers identified in the [NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG)](https://www.nsf.gov/policies/pappg/24-1) - Unaffiliated individuals are not eligible - No restrictions on PI, co-PI, or organizational submissions - International collaborations may be included, but primary funding is for U.S.-based organizations --- ## Application Process - Proposals must be submitted via [Research.gov](https://www.research.gov/) or [Grants.gov](https://www.grants.gov/) - Letters of intent and preliminary proposals are not required - Full proposals should follow the current NSF PAPPG guidelines - Collaborative proposals must be submitted via Research.gov - Proposals should include metrics for assessing project success and describe plans for recruiting and mentoring trainees, especially from underrepresented groups --- ## Additional Information - Projects should focus on innovative mathematical approaches with potential impact on biological sciences, including but not limited to genomics, infectious disease modeling, climate change effects, neuroscience, and biotechnology - AI/DL/ML approaches are encouraged, particularly where they advance foundational mathematics in biology - Results dissemination and broadening participation in STEM are expected components --- ## External Links - [Program Solicitation and Details (NSF 23-537)](http://www.nsf.gov/publications/pub_summ.jsp?ods_key=nsf23537) - [Program Page (latest version)](https://www.nsf.gov/funding/opportunities/emb-emerging-mathematics-biology) - [NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide](https://www.nsf.gov/policies/pappg/24-1) - [Apply via Grants.gov](https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/359636) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Role | Email | Phone | |---------------------|-----------------------------|------------------------------|--------------| | Zhilan J. Feng | Program Director, MPS/DMS | [zfeng@nsf.gov](mailto:zfeng@nsf.gov) | (703) 292-7523 | | Amina Eladdadi | Program Director, MPS/DMS | [aeladdad@nsf.gov](mailto:aeladdad@nsf.gov) | (703) 292-8128 | | NSF Grants.gov Support | Technical Help | [grantsgovsupport@nsf.gov](mailto:grantsgovsupport@nsf.gov) | | | NSF Information Center | General Inquiries | | (703) 292-5111 | ---

Emerging Mathematics in Biology

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