GROWING CONVERGENCE RESEARCH
Research grant for multidisciplinary teams engaging in convergence research to tackle complex problems with innovative solutions, offering up to $3.6M over 5 years.
Funder: U.S. National Science Foundation
Due Dates: April 12, 2024 | February 10, 2025 | February 8, 2027 (annual, second Monday in February; due by 5 p.m. local time)
Funding Amounts: $1,200,000 max for Phase I (2 years); up to $3,600,000 total over 5 years; 6–10 awards anticipated; $16M total program funding (pending availability)
Summary: Supports bold, multidisciplinary research teams developing innovative, deeply integrated approaches to address complex scientific or societal challenges through convergence research.
Key Information: PIs/co-PIs may only participate in one active or pending GCR project; eligibility and research scope restrictions strictly enforced.
Description
This opportunity funds multidisciplinary research teams aiming to develop new, deeply integrated approaches—across NSF directorates and disciplines—to tackle complex scientific or societal challenges not currently supported by other NSF programs. The program emphasizes "convergence research," characterized by (1) a focus on a specific, compelling problem and (2) deep integration of knowledge, methods, and expertise from diverse fields. Projects must propose a five-year plan split into two phases, with initial funding for two years (Phase I) and potential for up to three additional years (Phase II) contingent on demonstrated progress and available funds. The goal is to catalyze paradigm-shifting advances, establish new scientific communities, and foster transformative technologies or frameworks with broad impact.
