The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 "to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense.. " With an annual budget of $7.3 billion (FY 2015), it is the funding source for approximately 24 percent of all federally supported basic research conducted by America's colleges and universities.

NSF's goals--discovery, learning, research infrastructure and stewardship--serve to advance the frontiers of knowledge through research, educate a world-class, broadly inclusive science and engineering workforce and expand the scientific literacy of all citizens, and build the nation's research capability through investments in advanced instrumentation and facilities. NSF's mission also includes support for science and engineering education, from pre-K through graduate school and beyond.

NSF has seven directorates that support science and engineering research and education: (i) Biological Sciences, (ii) Computer and Information Science and Engineering, (iii) Engineering, (iv) Geosciences, (v) Mathematical and Physical Sciences, (vi) Social, Behavioral and Economic Sciences, and (vii) Education and Human Resources. Each directorate is subdivided into divisions, e.g., molecular and cellular biosciences, materials research, computer and network systems. There are also several inter- and intra-divisional programs that span disciplines and research areas, such as BioMaPS, a program that promotes research at the interface of the Biological, Mathematical and Physical Sciences.

This talk will present information on NSF funding opportunities of interest to the Albany Conversation community, including tips on proposal preparation, NSF's review criteria (Intellectual Merit and Broader Impact) and process, as well as cross-disciplinary and special interest programs and new initiatives.

http://www.nsf.gov
http://www.nsf.gov/bfa/dias/policy/outreach.jsp