In an unprecedented move that pushes the boundaries of modern science, the National Science Foundation has announced a new funding opportunity titled “Designing Synthetic Cells Beyond the Bounds of Evolution”. With an estimated total program funding of $6,000,000, this initiative seeks to propel the field of synthetic biology into uncharted territories. This grants notice, numbered 24-505, is not just a routine funding opportunity; it is a clarion call for researchers and institutions to explore the essence of life through synthetic cells.
The opportunity, categorized as Discretionary with Grant as the funding instrument type, is dedicated to unraveling the minimal requirements for life’s processes. The NSF has made it clear that proposals are expected from a diverse range of eligible applicants, including non-profits, institutions of higher education, and tribal governments. Those fortunate enough to be awarded will be at the forefront of addressing fundamental questions in life’s evolution and expanding the understanding of biological diversity beyond existing natural parameters.
The program, which also intends to tackle social, ethical, and safety issues related to the creation of synthetically modified cells, has set the original and current closing date for applications on February 1, 2024. With this groundbreaking initiative, the National Science Foundation is not only funding research but also investing in the potential for revolutionary biotechnological applications that could reshape our world.
Opportunity ID: 350848
General Information
- Document Type: Grants Notice
- Funding Opportunity Number: 24-505
- Funding Opportunity Title: Designing Synthetic Cells Beyond the Bounds of Evolution
- Opportunity Category: Discretionary
- Funding Instrument Type: Grant
- Category of Funding Activity: Science and Technology and other Research and Development
- Expected Number of Awards: 7
- CFDA Number(s): 47.041 — Engineering, 47.074 — Biological Sciences, 47.075 — Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences
- Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement: No
- Version: Synopsis 1
- Posted Date: Nov 03, 2023
- Last Updated Date: Nov 03, 2023
- Original Closing Date for Applications: Feb 01, 2024
- Current Closing Date for Applications: Feb 01, 2024
- Archive Date: Mar 02, 2028
- Estimated Total Program Funding: $6,000,000
- Award Ceiling: $2,000,000
- Award Floor: $500,000
Eligibility
- Eligible Applicants: Others (see text field entitled “Additional Information on Eligibility” for clarification)
- Additional Information on Eligibility: Proposals may be submitted by non-profit, non-academic organizations, institutions of higher education, and tribal governments as detailed in the full announcement.
Additional Information
- Agency Name: National Science Foundation
- Description: The solicitation supports research that develops cell-like systems to identify life processes, designs synthetic cells for evolutionary research, and builds novel systems for biotechnology applications. Consideration of social, ethical, and safety issues is integral.
Grantor Contact Information
- If you have difficulty accessing the full announcement electronically, please contact:
- NSF grants.gov support
- grantsgovsupport@nsf.gov