Structure and Physics of the Solid Earth
Grant supports research on Earth's structure, dynamics, geohazards, and formation using diverse methods to enhance natural hazard understanding.
Funder: U.S. National Science Foundation
Due Dates: Proposals accepted anytime
Funding Amounts: Estimated total program funding: $22,000,000; 60–75 awards expected per year; typical award size varies by project scope.
Summary: Supports fundamental research on the structure and physics of the solid Earth, including geodynamics, tectonics, seismology, and related fields.
Description
The Structure and Physics of the Solid Earth (SPSE) Program supports research to advance understanding of the dynamic processes shaping Earth’s structure from the core to the crust. The program encompasses laboratory, field, theoretical, and computational studies across a broad range of disciplines including structural geology, tectonics, geophysics, geodynamics, geomagnetism, seismology, mineral physics, and related fields. Research funded by SPSE aims to improve knowledge of geohazards (such as earthquakes and mass flows), planetary formation, and the Earth’s magnetic field.
Projects may be single- or multi-investigator, collaborative, or involve international partners. The program also welcomes proposals for community workshops, planning activities for large-scale efforts, and interdisciplinary projects that integrate Earth science questions across fields and methodologies.
