Plasma Physics
The Plasma Physics grant supports research on interactions of charged particles, matter, and systems in physics, space, astrophysics, and engineering.
Funder: U.S. National Science Foundation
Due Dates: November 20, 2023 | November 16, 2026 (current closing date)
Funding Amounts: Expected ~25 awards; award size and duration vary; 3–5 years possible; no cost sharing required.
Summary: 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.
