W. M. Keck Research Program
The W. M. Keck Foundation Research Program supports innovative, high-risk basic science and engineering projects that aim to transform their fields through pioneering discoveries and novel methodologies.
Funder: W. M. Keck Foundation
Due Dates: June 15, 2026: Concept counseling deadline (optional) — June grant cycle | November 1, 2026: Phase I application deadline — June grant cycle (due by 4:30pm PT) | February 15, 2027: Phase II proposal deadline — June grant cycle (due by 4:30pm PT) | December 15, 2026: Concept counseling deadline (optional) — December grant cycle | May 1, 2027: Phase I application deadline — December grant cycle (due by 4:30pm PT) | August 15, 2026: Phase II proposal deadline — December grant cycle (due by 4:30pm PT)
Funding Amounts: Typical awards: $1M–$1.3M over 3 years; no indirect costs allowed; salary and tuition caps apply.
Summary: Supports pioneering, high-risk basic science and engineering research projects with the potential to transform their fields.
Key Information: Application must be submitted by your institution’s designated liaison; up to three applications per institution per cycle.
Description
The W. M. Keck Foundation Research Program funds innovative, high-risk research in the basic physical, life, and biomedical sciences, as well as engineering. The program seeks projects that are distinctive, challenge existing paradigms, or open new research frontiers—especially those unlikely to receive support from public agencies. Supported research often involves the creation of new technologies, instrumentation, or methodologies, and aims for transformative outcomes, such as founding new fields or enabling previously impossible scientific observations. The emphasis is on fundamental basic science with high potential impact; translational research, clinical trials, and projects focused solely on tools or efficiency improvements are not supported.
