Synthetic Plant Biology
Supports high-risk research using engineering approaches to develop new tools and gain insights into plant biology, including sensor development, resilience engineering, and genetic modification.
Funder: Simons Foundation
Due Dates: July 30, 2026 (Full application submission, 12:00 p.m. Eastern)
Funding Amounts: Up to $360,000 per year (including indirect costs), for 3 years; 3–5 awards expected
Summary: Supports exploratory, high-risk research applying engineering principles to advance plant biology and develop innovative tools for future research.
Description
This opportunity supports research that leverages engineering approaches to advance the understanding of plant function and biology. Projects of interest include, but are not limited to, developing sensors for plant physiological monitoring, engineering plants for resilience to harsh environments, and creating genetic modifications to explore trade-offs in plant growth and development. The program emphasizes both the generation of fundamental insights and the development of innovative tools and techniques that will empower future plant biology research. Proposals should be exploratory and high-risk; preliminary data are not required at the application stage and are considered an expected outcome of the award.
