Guide to Programs Fiscal Year 1997 A compilation of NSF funding opportunities How to Use This Publication The NSF Guide to Programs is a compilation of funding opportunities for research and education in science, mathematics, and engineering. General descriptions of NSF programs, research areas, and deadline and target dates for proposal submission are provided in each chapter. Many NSF programs offer announcements concerning specific proposal requirements. To obtain additional information about these requirements, contact the appropriate NSF program offices listed in this Guide. Any changes in NSF's fiscal year 1997 programs occurring after press time for the Guide to Programs will be announced in the NSF Bulletin, available monthly (except July and August) at no charge, and in individual program announcements. The Bulletin is available as a printed publication and can be accessed electronically. To receive a sample printed copy of the Bulletin, write to: Editor, NSF Bulletin, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 1245, Arlington, VA 22230. Below are further instructions on how to obtain electronic or printed copies of NSF publications. How to Obtain NSF Publications Many NSF publications are available electronically on the NSF Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov/. We highly recommend that you use this electronic method for fast, easy access. Copies of publications in printed form are also available, at no charge, and may be ordered by writing Forms and Publications, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room P15, Arlington, VA 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1130, by Fax, (703) 644-4278, or by e-mail, pubs@nsf.gov. In your request, include the NSF publication number and title, your name, and your complete mailing address. Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) The CFDA provides the user with a comprehensive, up-to-date, descriptive listing of assistance programs administered by federal departments and agencies. Information contacts with telephone numbers and addresses are included. The catalog is published by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the General Services Administration (GSA). Copies can be ordered from the Government Printing Office (GPO). The assigned CFDA numbers for each NSF directorate are as follows: 47.041 Engineering 47.049 Mathematical and Physical Sciences 47.050 Geosciences 47.070 Computer and Information Science and Engineering 47.074 Biological Sciences 47.075 Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences 47.076 Education and Human Resources 47.077 Academic Research Instrumentation CONTENTS Introduction Criteria for the Selection of Research and Education Projects Biological Sciences Biological Infrastructure Environmental Biology Integrative Biology and Neuroscience Molecular and Cellular Biosciences Computer and Information Science and Engineering Computer and Computation Research Information, Robotics, and Intelligent Systems Microelectronic Information Processing Systems Advanced Scientific Computing Networking and Communications Research and Infrastructure Cross-Disciplinary Activities Education and Human Resources Educational System Reform Elementary, Secondary, and Informal Education Undergraduate Education Graduate Education Human Resource Development Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research Research, Evaluation, and Communication Engineering Bioengineering and Environmental Systems Chemical and Transport Systems Civil and Mechanical Systems Design, Manufacture, and Industrial Innovation Electrical and Communications Systems Engineering Education and Centers Geosciences Atmospheric Sciences Earth Sciences Ocean Sciences Mathematical and Physical Sciences Astronomical Sciences Mathematical Sciences Physics Chemistry Materials Research Polar Programs United States Antarctic Research Arctic Research Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences Social, Behavioral, and Economic Research Science Resources Studies International Programs Other Programs and Activities Major Research Instrumentation Recognition Awards for the Integration of Research and Education International Programs Research Opportunity Awards Underrepresented Populations Activities Undergraduate Activities Other Activities NSF Postdoctoral Fellowships Crosscutting Areas of Research and Education Advanced Materials and Processing Biotechnology Civil Infrastructure Systems Environment and Global Change High Performance Computing and Communications Manufacturing Modeling of Biological Systems Science, Mathematics, Engineering, and Technology Education Faculty Early Career Development NSF Component of the Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers Learning and Intelligent Systems Grant Opportunities for Academic Liaison with Industry Life in Extreme Environments INTRODUCTION NSF is an independent federal agency created by the National Science Foundation Act of 1950, as amended (42 U.S.C. 1861-75). Its aim is to promote and advance scientific progress in the United States. The idea of such a foundation was an outgrowth of the important contributions made by science and technology during World War II. From those first days, NSF has had a unique place in the federal government: It is responsible for strengthening the overall health of science and engineering across all disciplines. In contrast, other federal agencies support research focused on specific missions, such as health or defense. The Foundation is also committed to ensuring the Nation's supply of scientists, engineers, and science educators, as well as providing a high quality education for every individual sufficient to enable them to pursue technical careers at all levels and meet the needs of the high performance workplace of the future. NSF funds research and education in science and engineering. It does this through grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements to more than 2,000 colleges, universities, and other research institutions in all parts of the United States. The Foundation accounts for about 20 percent of federal support to academic institutions for basic research. NSF receives approximately 30,000 new proposals each year for research, graduate and postdoctoral fellowships, and math/science/engineering education projects; it makes approximately 10,000 new awards. These typically go to universities, colleges, academic consortia, nonprofit institutions, and small businesses. The agency operates no laboratories itself but does support National Research Centers, certain oceanographic vessels, and Antarctic research stations. The Foundation also supports cooperative research between universities and industry and U.S. participation in international scientific efforts. The Foundation is led by a presidentially appointed Director and governed by the National Science Board (NSB). The Board is composed of 24 members, representing a cross section of American leadership in science and engineering research and education; appointed by the President to 6-year terms, with one-third appointed every 2 years; and selected solely on the basis of established records of distinguished service. The NSF Director is a member ex officio of the Board. In addition to governance of the Foundation, the Board serves the President and the Congress as an independent advisory body on policies affecting the health of U.S. science and engineering and education in science and engineering. The NSF organizational structure reflects academic organization, with divisions for the various disciplines and fields of science and engineering and science education. However, NSF recognizes that the excitement of science and engineering transcends disciplinary boundaries and that new fields are constantly emerging. NSF staff share review of proposals and funding of awards across programs, divisions, and directorates. NSF also uses a formal management process to coordinate research in selected areas that cross traditional disciplinary boundaries. The Foundation is helped by advisors from the scientific and engineering community and from industry who serve on formal review panels or review proposals by mail. This advisory system, which focuses on both program direction and specific proposals, involves more than 59,000 scientists and engineers a year. NSF program officers who are experts in a certain field or area use reviewer input to make award recommendations; applicants get anonymous verbatim copies of peer reviews and the program officer's explanation of the decision. Awardees are wholly responsible for doing their research and preparing the results for publication; the Foundation does not assume responsibility for such findings or their interpretation. NSF welcomes proposals on behalf of all qualified scientists and engineers and strongly encourages women, minorities, and people with disabilities to compete fully in its programs. In accordance with federal statutes and regulations and NSF policies, no person on grounds of race, color, age, sex, national origin, or disability shall be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subject to discrimination under any program or activity receiving financial assistance from NSF. CRITERIA FOR THE SELECTION OF RESEARCH AND EDUCATION PROJECTS To provide for the fair and equitable selection of the most meritorious research and education projects for support, the National Science Foundation has established criteria for their review and evaluation. These criteria are meant to be applied to all proposals in a balanced and judicious manner, according to the objectives and content of each proposal. Four criteria for the selection of projects by the National Science Foundation are listed below, together with the elements that constitute each criterion. (1) Competent performance of the research-This criterion relates to the capability of the investigator(s), the technical soundness of the proposed approach, and the adequacy of the institutional resources available. (2) Intrinsic merit of the research-This criterion is used to assess the likelihood that the research will lead to new discoveries or fundamental advances within its field of science or engineering or have substantial impact on progress in that field or in other scientific and engineering fields. (3) Utility or relevance of the research-This criterion is used to assess the likelihood that the research can contribute to the achievement of a goal that is extrinsic or in addition to that of the research field itself and thereby serve as the basis for new or improved technology or assist in the solution of societal problems. (4) Effect of the research on the infrastructure of science and engineering-This criterion relates to the potential of the proposed research to contribute to better understanding or improvement of the quality, distribution, or effectiveness of the Nation's scientific and engineering research, education, and workforce base. Criteria (1), (2), and (3) constitute an integral set that is applied in a balanced way to all proposals according to the objectives and content of each proposal. Criterion (1), competent performance, is essential to the evaluation of the quality of every proposal. The relative weight given criteria (2) and (3) depends on the nature of the proposed research. Criterion (2), intrinsic merit, is emphasized in evaluating basic research proposals, while criterion (3), utility or relevance, is stressed in evaluating applied research proposals. Criterion (3) also relates to major goal-oriented activities that the Foundation carries out, such as those directed at improving the knowledge base underlying science and technology policy, furthering international cooperation in science and engineering, and addressing areas of national need. Criterion (4), effect on the infrastructure of science and engineering, permits the evaluation of proposals in terms of their potential for improving the scientific and engineering enterprise and its educational activities in ways other than those encompassed by the first three criteria. Included under this criterion are questions relating to scientific and engineering personnel, including participation of women and minorities and persons with disabilities; the distribution of resources with respect to institutions and geographical area; stimulation of quality activities in important but underdeveloped fields; and the use of interdisciplinary approaches to research in appropriate areas. Any specific criteria that apply to individual programs, while falling within general criteria presented in this section, are contained in relevant program announcements or solicitations. Chapter 1 BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES The Directorate for Biological Sciences (BIO) promotes scientific progress in biology largely through grants to colleges, universities, and other institutions. In addition, support is provided for the following: early development of academic faculty as both educators and researchers through programs such as CAREER (Faculty Early Career Development); research workshops, symposia, and conferences; the purchase of scientific equipment for research purposes; maintenance and improvement of research collections; active research participation grants for undergraduates, research training groups, and postdoctoral research fellowships; and in selected areas, doctoral dissertation improvement grants. The following programs allow NSF grantees to apply for supplemental funding to support research experiences for faculty, undergraduate students, and high school students. For more information, contact the cognizant program director or refer to the program announcement listed for each activity. Research Opportunity Awards (ROA)-These supplemental awards are designed for faculty at 2- or 4-year colleges who want to participate in NSF-supported research projects. A request letter should briefly outline the nature of the planned research and include an expression of interest from the host scientist and the curriculum vitae of the guest scientist. These supplements may include (if applicable) summer or partial sabbatical salary and a modest amount for supplies and travel for the participant. For more information, see page 17 in the Grant Proposal Guide (GPG) (NSF 95-27). Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Supplements-These supplemental awards allow undergraduate students to participate in NSF-supported research projects by providing support for stipends, supplies, and other reasonable costs. To be eligible for support, a student must be either a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and must be an undergraduate who will not have received a baccalaureate degree prior to the receipt of the stipend. An REU request letter should be specific with regard to the student's qualifications and role in the research project. We particularly encourage requests that include students from groups traditionally underrepresented in science. For more information, see the program announcement Research Experiences for Undergraduates (NSF 96-102). REU also offers special training programs through the REU Sites Program. For more information, see the section on "Training" under the Division of Biological Infrastructure, located in this chapter. Research Assistance for Minority High School Students (RAMHSS)-The purpose of these supplemental awards is to encourage high school students from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in U.S. science, to participate in NSF-supported research projects. Please be specific in your letter about the student's minority status, qualifications, and nature of participation in the research. For more information, see the program announcement Research Assistantships for Minority High School Students (NSF 89-39, currently in revision). Additional details on these and other cross-directorate programs can be found in Chapter 9, "Other Programs and Activities." Deadlines and Target Dates Proposals for research projects may be submitted at any time and will be reviewed within 6 months if submitted by the target date listed. The earliest possible effective date for an award would be approximately 6 months after the target date. Multiuser instrumentation and instrument development proposals, postdoctoral research fellowships, doctoral dissertation improvement grants, and other special competitions have annual deadline dates. Potential applicants are encouraged to contact program staff concerning questions about target and deadline dates. Unless there is a program announcement stating otherwise, proposals must conform to all format requirements in the Grant Proposal Guide (GPG) (NSF 95-27), with special attention to page limitations, font size, and appendix materials (see pages 3 and 10). Some programs or specific competitions have program announcements that provide more details about their activities described in this Guide. These publications can be obtained through the NSF Forms and Publications office or through the program itself. Areas of Research The BIO Directorate is organized into four divisions: the Division of Biological Infrastructure (DBI), the Division of Environmental Biology (DEB), Integrative Biology and Neuroscience (IBN), and Molecular and Cellular Biosciences (MCB). Incoming proposals are assigned to program officers within these divisions for merit review and recommendation. Support is normally not provided for bioscience research with disease-related goals, including work on the etiology, diagnosis, or treatment of physical or mental disease, abnormality, or malfunction in human beings or animals. Animal models of such conditions or the development or testing of drugs or other procedures for their treatment also are not eligible for support. Review of proposals that have been sent to another federal agency will be suspended until the other agency takes final action. Exceptions are made for proposals from beginning investigators, for conferences or workshops, or for fellowships, and in cases where a proposer and a federal program manager have previously agreed to a joint review and possible joint funding. A beginning investigator is defined as an individual who has not previously been a principal investigator on any federally funded award except a doctoral dissertation improvement grant, fellowship, or research planning grant. Applicants are encouraged to contact a program officer by phone or e-mail concerning their proposals. Eligibility The most frequent recipients of support for basic scientific research in the biological sciences are academic institutions and nonprofit research groups. In special circumstances, grants are awarded to other types of institutions and to individuals. In these cases, preliminary inquiry should be made to the appropriate program officer before a proposal is submitted. Support may be provided for projects involving a single scientist or a number of scientists. Awards are made for projects confined to a single disciplinary area and for those that cross or merge disciplinary interests. For more information on cross-disciplinary activities, see Chapter 9, "Other Programs and Activities." Biological Infrastructure The research programs in the Division of Biological Infrastructure (DBI) are arranged in three clusters: Instrumentation-Related Activities, Research Resources, and Training Opportunities. The following briefly describes the activities and programs in each of these clusters. The program deadline or target date for submission of proposals is also listed. Instrument-Related Activities Multiuser Biological Equipment and Instrumentation Resources-Provides cost-shared support for the acquisition of major items of specialized multiuser instrumentation, thereby providing access to state-of-the-art instruments. The instrumentation must be used in the conduct of research that falls within the purview of the BIO Directorate. Cost-sharing of the capital cost by the institution is required. The annual deadline date for submission of proposals is the last Monday in July. For more information, see the program announcement Multiuser Biological Equipment and Instrumentation Resources (NSF 96-91). Joint NSF/NIH Multiuser Instrumentation Activity-Offers support for the purchase of a single instrument with a total purchase cost exceeding $500,000. Proposals that would normally be eligible for submission to both National Institutes of Health (NIH) and NSF may be submitted to NIH for joint funding with NSF by including necessary NSF documentation as summarized in the program announcement Multiuser Biological Equipment and Instrumentation Resources (NSF 96-91). The agencies will evaluate such proposals in a special review group that will be convened by NIH as a special NIH study section with NSF participation. A program announcement for shared instrumentation grants will be published in the January issue of the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts. There is one annual deadline date (usually in the last week of March) for receipt of applications. Instrument Development for Biological Research-Supports the development of new instrumentation that will increase the accuracy, range, or sensitivity of observations for BIO research fields. Funding is also offered for related activities that enhance the value of existing instrumentation, including the development of software to extend the range or improve the performance of specialized instrumentation; research demonstrating proof of concept and the development of working prototypes; and, in special cases, technical improvements associated with the use of new and very expensive commercial instruments. The annual deadline date for submission of proposals is the last Monday in August. For more information, see the program announcement Instrument Development for Biological Research (NSF 96-90). Improvements in Facilities, Communications, and Equipment for Research at Biological Field Stations and Marine Laboratories (FSML)-Support the refurbishment, rehabilitation, enhancement, acquisition, construction, and planning of field stations and marine laboratories. Sites are required to have a plan for archiving data in electronic form and for making these scientific data bases available to the community. Support can be provided for necessary computer equipment, connectivity, and development of scientific data bases and communication systems. Significant cost-sharing is required. The annual deadline date for submission of proposals is the first Friday in April. For more information, see the publication Improvements in Facilities, Communities, and Equipment at Biological Field Stations and Marine Laboratories (NSF 96-11). Research Resources Computational Biology Activities (CBA) in the Biological Sciences-Promote, support, and facilitate the development and use of computational tools, algorithms, community software, and related research that will enhance biological sciences research and infrastructure. To achieve these goals, CBA encourages collaboration between biological scientists and computer, computational, and mathematical scientists and engineers on research, workshops, and training at all levels. Research activities supported by this program are expected to have a large impact on the biological science community by (1) providing tools to help solve problems in the biological sciences or (2) developing novel computational or mathematical approaches to these problems, particularly approaches that involve high performance computing environments and techniques. The deadline date for submission of proposals is January 10. Data Base Activities in the Biological Sciences-Provide support for cross-disciplinary efforts to design, develop, implement, and use information resources. Research collaboration among biologists, computer scientists, and information retrieval specialists from both academic and commercial organizations is strongly encouraged. To facilitate access to current information technology, support is provided for planning, designing, prototyping, implementing, and distributing biological data bases, algorithms, and software relevant to analysis of biological information and of new methods and software supporting construction, operation, and access to biological data bases. Other focus areas include research on the development of new data structures and data management systems for biology; development of data dictionaries and common nomenclature for biology; activities that will facilitate the exchange of ideas among those engaged in data base work; and activities that promote the development and use of biological information resources. The target date for submission of proposals is January 10. For more information, see the program announcement Data Base Activities in Biological Sciences (NSF 96-6). Plant Science Initiatives-Currently support the DOE/NSF/USDA Collaborative Research in Plant Biology (CRPB) Program and the Arabidopsis genome research initiative. CRPB, a program funded jointly by the Department of Energy, the National Science Foundation, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, supports interdisciplinary and multiinstitutional research collaborative networks and other collaborative projects in all fields of plant biology. For more information, see the program announcement DOE/NSF/USDA Joint Program on Collaborative Research in Plant Biology (NSF 93-115). The division provides both national and international coordination of the multinational Arabidopsis genome research project. For more information, see the annual progress report, Arabidopsis thaliana Genome Research Project Progress Report: Year Five (NSF 96-43). (Past issues are available from the division.) Support of Living Stock Collections-Supports repositories for research organisms, genetic stocks, cell lines, seeds, and clones that are essential resources for national or international scientific research in the biological sciences. Funds are also provided for curatorial data bases and for linking the information associated with the collection to other information resources or scientific data bases. Long-term support of a collection or repository will require the development and use of such data bases. Proposals are accepted at any time. For more information, see the program announcement Guidelines for Proposals for Support of Living Stock Collections (NSF 90-107, in revision). Training Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Sites-Provide opportunities for undergraduate students to experience hands-on participation in research or related scholarly activities. BIO provides support to grantees who involve students in either special training programs through the REU Sites Program or ongoing research through the REU Supplements Program. For more information on either program, see the program announcement Research Experiences for Undergraduates (NSF 96-102), or contact the program officer in your area of research interest. The deadline date for submission of proposals for the REU Sites Program is September 15. Collaborative Research at Undergraduate Institutions-Supports multidisciplinary collaborative research groups at predominantly undergraduate institutions. These groups are composed of at least three faculty members representing at least two disciplinary areas and up to 10 undergraduates who will work on a biological research project that requires a cross-disciplinary approach. Submission of a preproposal is required before a full-length proposal will be accepted. The deadline date for preproposals was October 1, 1996. The deadline date for final proposals is February 7, 1997. Future competitions will be on a biennial cycle. For more information, see the program announcement Collaborative Research at Undergraduate Institutions (NSF 96-116). BIO Research Training Groups-Support the establishment of programs designed to train biologists in research areas that cross traditional disciplinary lines. Typically, awards provide stipends for graduate students and also support the training of undergraduate and postdoctoral students. Awards are for 5 years and provide funds for training expenses and instrumentation. The next competition will be during 1997 through 1998. The program announcement will be revised prior to the next competition for awards in fiscal year 1998. Future competitions will be held on a biennial cycle. For more information, see the program announcement BIO Research Training Groups (NSF 95-114). Postdoctoral Research Fellowships-Are offered in selected areas to U.S. citizens, nationals, and lawfully admitted permanent resident aliens. Applicants choose a sponsoring scientist and present a research and training plan. These fellowships are awarded to individuals for research and training at any appropriate U.S. or foreign institution, total $80,000 for 2 years, and require a change from the Ph.D. institution. Specific activities and deadline dates for submission of applications are described below. Minority Postdoctoral Research Fellowships-Seek to prepare minority scientists who are within 4 years of receipt of their doctoral degree for leadership positions in academe and industry. The term "minority," as used here, refers to those racial or ethnic groups that are significantly underrepresented at advanced levels of science and engineering in the United States. These include American Indians or Alaskan Natives (Native Americans), Blacks (African Americans), Hispanics, and Pacific Islanders. Foreign tenure can be followed by an additional third year of support at a U.S. institution. Fellows are invited to an annual meeting at NSF and are eligible to apply for research starter grants. Minority graduate students within 18 months of their doctoral degree are eligible for travel awards to visit prospective sponsors prior to preparing a fellowship application. The deadline date for applications is the first Friday in December. For more information, see the program announcement Minority Postdoctoral Research Fellowships and Supporting Activities (NSF 94-133). Postdoctoral Research Fellowships in Biosciences Related to the Environment-Support research and training in any field of biological science that studies the fundamental mechanisms underlying the interactions between organisms and their environment at the molecular, cellular, organismal, population, community, and ecosystem levels. Foreign tenure can be followed by an additional third year of support at a U.S. institution. Applicants must be within 3 years of having received their doctoral degree. Fellows are eligible to apply for research starter grants at the end of the fellowship. The deadline date for applications is the first Friday in November. For more information, see the program announcement Postdoctoral Research Fellowships in Biosciences Related to the Environment (NSF 94-114). Postdoctoral Research Fellowships in Molecular Evolution-Are administered jointly by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation and NSF as part of a 5-year program to encourage and train recent Ph.D. scientists in molecular evolution. Applicants must be within 4 years of earning their doctoral degree and are expected to submit research plans that differ from those of their doctoral training or current postdoctoral research. The first deadline date for applications was November 1, 1996; the second will be November 4, 1997. For more information, see the announcement Postdoctoral Research Fellowships in Molecular Evolution (NSF 93-151). Environmental Biology The Division of Environmental Biology (DEB) supports fundamental research on the origins, functions, relationships, interactions, and evolutionary history of populations, species, communities, and ecosystems. Scientific emphases include biodiversity, molecular evolution, mesoscale ecology, computational biology (including modeling), data base development, conservation biology, global change, and restoration ecology. DEB also supports (1) the curatorial improvement and computerization of research collections; (2) a network of long-term ecological research sites; (3) doctoral dissertation research; (4) research conferences and workshops; and (5) a variety of NSF-wide activities. Target Dates Unless otherwise stated, June 15 and December 15 are the target dates for submission of proposals to all DEB programs listed below. Proposals mailed by a target date will be considered in the next panel review cycle-April or May panel meetings for the December target date and October or November panel meetings for the June target date. Areas of Research The research programs in DEB are arranged in three clusters: Systematic and Population Biology, Ecological Studies, and Long-Term Projects in Environmental Biology. The following briefly describes the activities and programs in each of these clusters. Systematic and Population Biology-Supports research on the patterns and causes of diversity within and among populations and species. Research projects may involve any group of organisms, including terrestrial, freshwater, and marine taxa, and range in subject from microbes to multicellular plants, animals, and fungi. Research areas are arranged in the following groups. Population Biology-Focus areas include (1) molecular population studies including analyses of the causes and consequences of variation and change in biochemical characteristics; RNA and DNA sequences; the population genetics of mobile elements; the evolution of genic and genomic organization and functioning; and the evolution of organismal development; (2) population and quantitative genetics directed at understanding the genotypic and phenotypic variation of populations during microevolution; geographical differentiation; organismal adaptation to changing environments; natural hybridization; and speciation; and (3) studies from an ecological and evolutionary perspective of the life history and life cycle phenomena of terrestrial, freshwater, and wetland organisms; animal and plant demography of age- and stage-structured populations; and population dynamics including linear, nonlinear, and stochastic approaches. Systematics-Focus areas include (1) phylogenetic analyses that produce or test phylogenetic hypotheses or models and the use of derived phylogenies to elucidate patterns of structural, developmental, or molecular evolution; (2) studies that lead to improved classifications, better methods of taxonomic identification, contributions to classificatory theory, and nomenclatural reform; (3) understanding of processes that underlie the origin and maintenance of taxonomic diversity; and (4) theoretical and empirical studies of biogeographical, co-evolutionary, and paleobiological patterns to develop models of the origin, diversification, distribution, and extinction of species and evolutionary lineage and to determine the tempo and mode of evolutionary change. Ecological Studies-Support research on natural and managed ecological systems, primarily in terrestrial, wetland, and freshwater habitats. Research areas include experimental, theoretical, and modeling studies on the structure and function of complex biotic-abiotic associations and the coupling of small-scale systems to each other and to large-scale systems. Current areas of emphasis include the role of biological diversity in ecological systems, the ecological effects of global change, and the ecological basis of sustainability. Projects are encouraged that develop conceptual and synthetic linkages such as theoretical and modeling studies, that are conducted at one or more scales of ecological organization, and that synthesize empirical and theoretical findings into new ecological paradigms. Research areas are arranged in the following groups. Ecosystems Studies-Support mechanistic or empirical investigations of whole-system ecological processes and relationships in the following areas: (1) biogeochemistry, such as studies of decomposition, global and regional elemental budgets, and biotic versus abiotic controls of nutrient cycles; (2) primary productivity, particularly ecophysiology within an ecosystem framework; and (3) landscape dynamics with an emphasis on quantitative models of disturbances, ecosystem resilience, and successional patterns. Ecology-Supports community ecology and population interactions in such areas as (1) dynamics and processes within specific communities or habitats; (2) food-web structure and landscape patterns formed by community dynamics; (3) paleoecology; and (4) organismal interactions such as mutualism, plant-animal interactions, competition, predation, co-evolution, and chemical or evolutionary ecology. Long-Term Projects in Environmental Biology-Support research that requires a longer time frame to complete and infrastructure that is essential to support longer time scale projects. Research includes surveys of biodiversity ranging from regional to world-wide with the appropriate curatorial and data management theory and infrastructure. Also supported are a wide range of long-term experiments and monitoring-from individual population studies to landscape scale dynamics-that evaluate the cumulative impact of natural and anthropogenic perturbations. Research areas are arranged in the following groups. Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER)-Supports investigations of whole ecosystems and their component organisms and processes at sites that represent major biomes. Projects are multidisciplinary and actively encourage collaborative research with nonecological investigators. The deadline date for submission of proposals is announced via special solicitations. Long-Term Research in Environmental Biology (LTREB)-Supports smaller studies that focus on evolutionary or ecological phenomena and require long-term investigation. LTREB proposals are reviewed by disciplinary panels. The deadline dates for submission of proposals are June 15 and December 15. Land-Margin Ecosystem Research (LMER)-A joint activity with the Biological Oceanography Program aimed at understanding land-margin ecosystems and their links with adjacent terrestrial and marine ecosystems. Competitions are announced via special solicitations. Research Collections in Systematics and Ecology-Support projects for the improvement and preservation of research collections. The program particularly encourages the development of computerized data bases that will be openly available and easily accessible to the research community via electronic networks. The deadline dates for submission of proposals are January 15 and July 15. Biotic Surveys and Inventories-Focus on collecting and recording the diversity of life on Earth. Collections that are well curated and permanent and the development of computerized data bases are strongly encouraged as end-products of the program's support. The deadline date for submission of proposals is November 15. Integrative Biology and Neuroscience The Division of Integrative Biology and Neuroscience (IBN) supports research aimed at understanding the living organism-plant, animal, microbe-as a unit of biological organization. Research focuses on the mechanisms by which plants and animals develop, grow, reproduce, regulate their physiological activity, and respond to their environment; the integration of molecular, subcellular, and cellular approaches to understand the development, functioning, and behavior of organisms in both laboratory and natural settings; all aspects of the nervous system, including its structure, function, development, and integration with the physiological and behavioral systems affected by it; factors influencing the behavior of animals in the laboratory and field; whole-organism approaches to physiological ecology; and the form and function of organisms in relation to their evolution and environmental interactions. Synthetic and analytic approaches that address this integration often require advanced computational techniques and interdisciplinary perspectives involving other areas of biology, behavioral science, physical science, mathematics, engineering, and computer science. In addition, the development and use of a wide diversity of organisms as biological models are encouraged to assist both in identifying unifying principles common to all organisms and in documenting the variety of mechanisms that have evolved in specific organisms. Current scientific emphases include biotechnology, biomolecular materials, environmental biology, global change, biodiversity, molecular evolution, plant science, microbial biology, and computational biology (including modeling). Research projects generally include support for the education and training of future scientists. IBN also supports doctoral dissertation research; research conferences, workshops, and symposia; and a variety of NSF-wide activities. Areas of Research The research programs in the IBN Division are arranged in three clusters: Developmental Mechanisms, Neuroscience, and Physiology and Ethology. The following briefly describes the activities and programs in each of these clusters. Activities are not necessarily limited to the specific areas described. Developmental Mechanisms-Cluster supports research on the nature and control of those processes that comprise the life cycle of organisms. Approaches range from molecular genetic analysis of developmental processes to the experimental manipulation of whole organisms. Research in microorganisms, plants, and animals is supported. Other areas of focus include gametogenesis, fertilization, embryogenesis, differentiation, pattern formation, morphogenesis, seed and fruit development and ripening, incompatibility, and senescence. The target dates for submission of proposals are January 10 and July 10. Neuroscience-Cluster supports research on all aspects of nervous system structure, function, and development. Integrative approaches to basic research range from fundamental mechanisms of neuronal function at the molecular and cellular levels to adaptations of the brain for appropriate behavior in particular environments. A major focus is the development and use of a wide diversity of organisms as biological models for understanding fundamental principles of neuroscience. Multidisciplinary collaborative research projects are encouraged to apply different types of research techniques to single, focused problems in neuroscience. The target dates for submission of proposals are January 10 and July 10. Research areas in this cluster are arranged in the following groups. Behavioral Neuroscience-Focuses on the neural regulation of behavioral events ranging from simple movements to complex adaptive and interactive responses. Major activities are sensorimotor integration, biological rhythms, and cognitive functions such as attention, spatial representation, and learning and memory. Approaches that use novel techniques to study behavior within an evolutionary and ecological context are encouraged. Computational Neuroscience-Focuses on the computational functions of neurons, neural circuits, and nervous systems and encourages the development and testing of mathematical or computer models of neural systems. In addition to experimental studies on animals, the activity also welcomes theoretical approaches for developing innovative, testable concepts that will clarify and extend current experimental observations in all areas of neuroscience. Developmental Neuroscience-Focuses on the development, regeneration, and aging of the nervous system. Use of model systems to elucidate basic mechanisms and principles that typically apply to many neuronal systems is encouraged. Current studies include aspects of axonal navigation and cell migration, cell lineage and determination, neuronal morphogenesis and neuron-glia interactions, synaptic specificity and plasticity, cell death, and the relationship of neural developmental mechanisms with learning. These studies may employ a wide range of approaches, from the use of cellular and molecular techniques to the study of development at the system or behavioral level. Neuroendocrinology-Focuses on understanding the diverse relationships between the central nervous system, hormones, and behavior, especially in relation to environmental factors. Of particular interest is how the brain controls endocrine secretion and what effects steroid and peptide hormones have on the brain. Research ranges from the basic mechanisms underlying neuroendocrine development and regulation to the use of molecular biological tools to examine the interaction between physiologically and behaviorally related events and gene expression. Neuronal and Glial Mechanisms-Uses innovative approaches and techniques such as original model systems to explore the cellular and molecular mechanisms of neuronal and glial cell function, including energy metabolism, ion and substrate transport, and synaptic mechanisms. Major thrusts include the genetic and biophysical bases of a membrane's electrical properties, their regulation by intracellular second messengers, and the integration of metabolism and signaling activity by interactions between neurons and glia in both the peripheral and central nervous systems. Sensory Systems-Focuses on the mechanisms by which the nervous system acquires, encodes, and processes information about the environment. This includes research on neural processes at the molecular, cellular, systems, and behavioral levels and psychophysical correlates of sensory neural processes. Topics include sensory transduction, neural coding and integrative mechanisms, and comparative aspects of sensory capabilities including vision, hearing, touch, taste, smell, equilibrium, electrosensation, magnetic sensation, and other senses. Physiology and Ethology-Cluster supports integrative studies of physiological functions at the cellular, systemic, and organismal levels and animal behavior in both field and laboratory settings. Target dates for submission of proposals are January 10 and July 10. Research areas in this cluster are arranged in the following groups. Animal Behavior-Focuses on the mechanisms, development, functions, and evolution of all animal behavior, studied observationally and experimentally in laboratory and natural settings. Specific areas include behavioral ecology and evolution, nonhuman learning and cognition, behavioral genetics, development of behavior, and behavioral physiology and motivation including behavioral endocrinology, animal communication, and animal orientation. These areas are neither limiting nor mutually exclusive, and interdisciplinary collaborations and other projects that integrate diverse approaches to the study of behavior are particularly encouraged. Ecological and Evolutionary Physiology-Supports research that addresses ecological or evolutionary questions in the areas of evolutionary morphology, comparative physiology, physiological ecology, and biomechanics of plants, animals, protists, fungi, and bacteria, with emphasis on the study of whole organisms, living or extinct. These studies focus largely on how physiological or morphological mechanisms have evolved and how they may influence evolutionary pathways or interactions between organisms and their biotic or physiochemical environment. Integrative Animal Biology-Focuses on the basic physiological mechanisms at the molecular, cellular, tissue, organ, and whole-animal levels. Its encompassing theme is "the whole animal as an integrated system." The program includes research on integrative aspects of comparative physiology, functional morphology, endocrinology, epithelial transport, and biomechanics. Studies that focus on the nervous system are supported by the Neuroscience cluster. Integrative Plant Biology-Supports research on plants as functional units and combines molecular, biochemical, and biophysical approaches to the understanding of plant form and function. Examples include whole-plant, tissue, and organ physiology; sensory mechanisms; and hormonal and environmental regulation of plant function. Examples also include plant physiological interactions with pathogens, nitrogen-fixing organisms, mycorrhizae and other beneficial or pathogenic organisms in the rhizosphere; and interactions with parasites, epiphytes, endophytes, and other commensal interactions. The emphasis is on understanding the physiological and metabolic basis of plant responses to such interactions. Also supported is research on the physiological and biochemical mechanisms through which plant function adapts to accommodate changing environmental conditions. Molecular and Cellular Biosciences The Division of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences (MCB) primarily focuses on research and related activities that contribute to a fundamental understanding of life processes at the molecular, subcellular, and cellular levels. Programs in the division support fundamental research that will lead to technological innovation and multidisciplinary and small group research projects. Other focus areas include biodiversity and biotechnology, microbial biology, plant biology, theoretical or computational aspects of molecular and cellular studies, molecular evolution, and biomolecular materials. Also considered are proposals for the support of special meetings and workshops-both domestic and international-and a variety of NSF-wide activities. Supplemental funding is available for NSF grantees to support research experiences for faculty from 2- and 4-year colleges through the Research Opportunity Awards (ROA) Program; undergraduate students through the Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Program; and high school students who are traditionally underrepresented in U.S. science through the Research Assistantships for Minority High School Students (RAMHS) Program. For more information, contact the program director who administers your grant, or refer to the program announcement listed under each activity. Target Dates The target dates for submission of proposals to the Division of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences are January 10 and July 10. Proposals received by the target date will be considered in the next panel review cycle-April or May panel meetings for the January target date and October or November panel meetings for the July target date. Areas of Research The research programs in the MCB Division are arranged in four clusters: Biomolecular Structure and Function, Biomolecular Processes, Cell Biology, and Genetics. The following briefly describes the activities and programs in each of these clusters. Biomolecular Structure and Function-Supports research aimed at understanding the structure and function of biological macromolecules, including proteins, nucleic acids, polysaccharides, and lipid assemblies. The research supported by this cluster encompasses a broad range of topics and techniques. The cluster encourages multidisciplinary and innovative efforts between biology and physics, chemistry, mathematics, and computer sciences. The cluster supports research in the following areas. Molecular Biochemistry-Emphasizes the correlation of function with the known structure of biological macromolecules and supramolecular structures such as multienzyme complexes, membranes, and viruses. Additional areas of responsibility include ribosomal function; the mechanism and regulation of enzyme and RNA catalysis; biochemical reactions involved in bioenergetic processes and photosynthesis; key biochemical processes involved in protein synthesis and folding; and the synthesis of biomolecular materials. To address these topics, approaches typically include combinations of biochemical, molecular biological, chemical, physical, and genetic techniques that are applied in an integrative manner. Molecular Biophysics-Supports research on the structure, dynamics, and interactions of biological macromolecules. This includes the determination and study of three-dimensional structure of macromolecules; assembly and architecture of supramolecular structures such as multienzyme units, viruses, membranes, and contractile proteins; energy transduction; structure and dynamics of photosynthetic reaction centers; and mechanisms of electron and proton transfer in biological systems. Typical methodologies include theory and computation; x-ray diffraction; magnetic resonance; optical spectroscopy; specialized microscopy such as atomic force; and mass spectrometry. Biomolecular Processes-Supports research on molecular mechanisms by which genetic and metabolic processes occur in plant, animal, and microbial organisms. These processes and related regulatory features are the primary areas of emphasis. The cluster supports research in the following areas. Biochemistry of Gene Expression-Supports research using biochemical and molecular biological methods to investigate mechanisms for the replication, expression, transfer, and stability of genetic information, both DNA and RNA. These studies involve primarily in vitro biochemical approaches. Gene expression mechanisms are a major focus that includes transcription and processing of mRNA regulatory features including chromatin architecture, RNA stability, and translational mechanisms. Other areas of study include DNA replication, mutation, and repair. Metabolic Biochemistry-Supports research on many aspects of the dynamic activities of cells, including characterization of the biochemical pathways and other processes by which all organisms acquire, transform, and utilize energy from substrates and synthesize new small molecules and macromolecular cell components. The diversity of primary and secondary metabolism and mechanisms of metabolic regulation, in response to both internal and external signals, are major topics of interest. Also of interest are biotransformations of environmentally significant compounds; manipulations of metabolism with practical applications; quantitative and temporal aspects of metabolism; integration and subcellular organization of metabolic processes; and the use of new methods and technologies to conduct metabolic studies. Cell Biology-Supports research on the structure, function, and regulation of plant, animal, and microbial cells. Research areas are organized under the following subjects. Cellular Organization-Supports studies of the structure, function, and assembly of cellular elements such as the cytoskeleton, membranes, organelles, intracellular compartments, intranuclear structures, and the extracellular matrix including cell walls. This encompasses structural and dynamic aspects of cellular and intracellular motility, meiosis and mitosis, and cell shape and polarity, including the mechanisms of endocytosis, exocytosis, and intracellular trafficking of membranes and macromolecules. Signal Transduction and Cellular Regulation-Supports the study of intracellular and transmembrane signal transduction mechanisms and functions. These include signal reception, second messenger and signaling cascades, cellular mechanisms of recognition and defense, and the regulation of cell cycle progression. Genetics-Supports a wide range of studies directed toward answering significant questions of organization, recombination, function, regulation of function, and transmission of heritable information in all organisms, from viruses and microorganisms to plants and animals. Specific areas include but are not limited to mechanisms of gene regulation, chromosome structure and replication, epigenetic phenomena, DNA repair and recombination, sex determination, genetic interactions between genomes, and molecular evolution. The methodology to be used should be appropriate to the questions asked about genetic structure and function. The review process for proposals is organized around the areas described below, although interdisciplinary proposals or proposals that ask genetic questions but use methodology from other scientific disciplines will be coreviewed in a manner that will ensure effective and fair evaluation of each proposal. Eukaryotic Genetics-Supports genetic studies of eukaryotic organisms, with the exception of fungi, as experimental organisms. Other research topics include organelle and nuclear genomes, viruses of eukaryotic organisms, and any parasitic or symbiotic interaction at the genetic level. Epigenetic phenomena and molecular evolution are also areas of interest. Microbial Genetics-Supports genetic studies of eubacteria, archaebacteria, and fungi, including yeast, as experimental organisms. Also supported are studies on the genetics of bacterial viruses and other infectious agents of bacteria and fungi. Investigations of microbial interactions with other organisms are also considered if the emphasis of the study is on the microbe. Studies on molecular evolution of microbial genes are also considered. Special BIO Competitions Doctoral Dissertation Improvement Grants-Provide partial support for dissertation research with an ecological, evolutionary, or behavioral focus. Grants are typically awarded for 24 months and range from $3,000 to $10,000. The guidelines for formatting dissertation proposals are substantially different from those for formatting conventional proposals. For more information on these special guidelines, see the program announcement Doctoral Dissertation Improvement Grants in the Directorate for Biological Sciences (NSF 96-132). The target date for submission of proposals is the second Friday in October. Continuing Activities Investigators seeking funds for any of the following continuing activities should submit proposals directly to the appropriate disciplinary program(s) by the target date(s) announced for these programs. Information about these activities is available on the BIO Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov:80/bio/start.htm. Biosystems Analysis and Control-Supports cross-disciplinary research to develop innovative techniques and approaches for the analyses and control of complex natural and artificial dynamic systems. Such studies will extend our understanding of how biological systems interpret sensory signals, control physiological processes, and adaptively monitor and control motor functions. The expected outcomes of these activities include (1) the development of software and hardware models of neural circuits involved in information processing; (2) the design of mathematical tools for understanding nervous systems; and (3) the development of engineering control system architectures based on biological prototypes. Basic Research in Conservation and Restoration Biology-Invites proposals for fundamental research aimed at elucidating the underlying principles of the conservation and restoration of biological diversity. Biological diversity is broadly defined as the variety of life and its processes. There is particular interest in proposals that focus on scientific principles of and approaches to the restoration of biological diversity. Microbial Biology-Encourages proposal submissions (focused on a single project) from individual investigators and small groups of investigators that are directed toward research on microorganisms, especially prokaryotes and filamentous fungi, that occupy diverse habitats. BIO is particularly interested in receiving proposals for basic research studies on previously neglected or presently unknown microbes. The scope of research encouraged includes but is not limited to studies of microbial, metabolic, and structural features that allow growth and survival in unusual, natural environments; studies on the mechanistic basis of interactions among microbes and of microbes with other cohabiting species; studies of genes and environmental factors that influence the frequency of genetic exchange between microorganisms in natural environments; studies of the diversity of microbial processes for anaerobic and aerobic flow of energy and cycling of nutrients in water/water and air/water interfaces of streams, the rhizosphere/phylosphere of plants, and the sediments of lakes and wetlands; and development of instrumentation and chemical, biological, and computational methods that enhance the study of microorganisms in their natural environment and the management and analysis of data. Chapter 2 COMPUTER AND INFORMATION SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING The programs in the Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE) Directorate improve the fundamental understanding of "computing and information processing" in the broadest sense of the terms, enhance the training of scientists and engineers to contribute to that understanding, and encourage and facilitate the use of state-of-the-art information technologies and computational techniques in scientific and engineering research. Computing and information processing include the creation, representation, storage, transformation, and transmission of information. Special attention is given to the computing and communications technologies-including software-employed to manage these processes and to selected areas of application. Parallel processing, automation and robotics, large-scale integrated electronic systems, scientific computing, human-centered systems, high-confidence systems, knowledge networks, and networking are current areas of emphasis. CISE is inherently multidisciplinary. In addition to supporting computer and information scientists and engineers, it also encourages their collaboration with scientists and engineers in all NSF-supported disciplines in research and education. Its fields are unique in combining science and engineering methods and in the close coupling of basic and applied research methods. Support to academic institutions is provided through research awards to individuals, groups, and centers; instrumentation grants; research initiation grants; and infrastructure improvement grants. In addition to supporting research, CISE provides the general scientific community with access to advanced computing and networking capabilities. The national supercomputer centers give access to extremely powerful computing resources, train users, and develop the software required for effective use. Networking activities offer and build a national infrastructure for computer and human interaction, as well as communication for research and education. In addition, CISE supports capabilities for rapid prototyping of microelectronic components and systems for research and education, and educational development through various activities such as educational infrastructure and educational supplements. The Foundation welcomes proposals from all qualified scientists and engineers and especially encourages those initiated by women, minorities, and persons with disabilities. Scientists and engineers initiate proposals that are usually submitted on their behalf by their employing institution, and frequently most recipients of support for basic projects are colleges, universities, and nonprofit research organizations. In special cases (as noted in the introduction to this Guide), grants also go to other types of institutions or individuals. In these cases, a preliminary inquiry should be made to the appropriate program officer before a proposal is submitted. Support may be requested for projects involving one or more researchers. Awards are made for projects in a single discipline and for those that cross or merge disciplinary lines. Deadline and Target Dates Many programs in the CISE Directorate have an established deadline or target date for submission of proposals. To confirm a deadline, refer to the NSF Bulletin, a monthly publication produced by the Office of Legislative and Public Affairs; the CISE Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.cise.nsf.gov; or contact the appropriate program director. Most programs that do not have an established deadline will accept proposals at any time. It takes approximately 6 months to process a proposal. For More Information For further information or answers to specific questions, contact the appropriate CISE division director, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or consult the CISE Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.cise.nsf.gov/. Areas of Research Several CISE programs described below, such as Research Infrastructure, Instrumentation, and Educational Innovations, encompass all fields of computer and information science and engineering and are managed on a cross-divisional basis. Computer and Computation Research The Division of Computer and Computation Research (CCR) supports research through the following programs. Theory of Computing-Supports fundamental research in three areas: (1) Core Theory establishes solid foundations for cryptography, interactive computation, computational learning, parallel and distributed computation, computation on random data, on-line computation, and reasoning about knowledge; (2) Fundamental Algorithms develops combinatorial, approximation, on-line, numerical, geometric, and graph algorithms that transcend application domains; and (3) Application-Specific Theory develops models and techniques for solving problems that arise in areas of science and engineering, such as molecular biology, quantum computation, communications networks, and computational linguistics. Although Theory of Computing is designated as a distinct program, it should be recognized that theory plays an important part in all areas of computer and computation research. Investigators whose use of theoretical techniques is applied to topics within the scope of one of the topic-oriented programs are encouraged to apply to that program. Numeric, Symbolic, and Geometric Computation-Supports research in several areas in which advanced computational techniques are coupled with mathematical methods of analysis. These include numerical computation and modeling of physical processes, computational geometry, computer graphics and imaging, computational mathematics, computational logics, and automated deduction. Innovative applications of advanced computational techniques in areas such as manufacturing and design, proof support systems, and problem-solving environments for science and engineering are welcomed by this program. Software Engineering and Languages-Supports research on technical issues underlying the design, validation, and evolution of software-based systems. Topics include programming languages such as domain-specific language for specification and design; design automation for software; issues of modularity and composition; techniques to enhance confidence and quality; and software design environments. Experimental approaches to concept validation are strongly encouraged. Computer Systems, Architecture, and Software-Supports research to develop new concepts for the architecture of computer systems and the software that runs them. It includes research in processor, memory system, and I/O architecture; multiprocessor architecture; operating systems; distributed computing systems; techniques for design and optimization of compilers; and parallel computing. Some particularly important issues are software for heterogeneous distributed computing systems, network-based computing, system performance and service guarantees, and architectural support for system security. Experimental Software Systems-Supports research projects awarded by any of the CCR divisions that have a significant experimental component and is particularly interested in topics that fall within the scope of any or all of the programs within these divisions. Projects involving small teams of investigators can incorporate expertise from several different subareas of computer science. Interdisciplinary projects are particularly welcomed. Projects may consist of several phases, including planning, building experimental software prototypes, measurement, and evaluation. Successful projects may produce design artifacts that contribute to the infrastructure of further experimentation. Information, Robotics, and Intelligent Systems The Information, Robotics, and Intelligent Systems (IRIS) Division supports research through the following programs. Database and Expert Systems-Supports research essential to the design, development, management, and use of data bases, information retrieval, and knowledge-based systems. Topics include more expressive data/information/knowledge models, including temporal, multimedia, and scientific data bases; enhanced query processing including intelligent answering, interoperability in distributed or mobile heterogeneous systems, and query optimization; reliable storage, access, and manipulation of very large volumes of highly distributed data; and information systems evolution. Information Technology and Organizations-Supports research on the design and use of computer and communications systems that are used to coordinate work and decision-making. Topics include theory and models of information processing in organizations; information systems in networked environments for scientific collaboration; digital libraries; distributed artificial intelligence; and impacts and policy implications of information technology on society. Interactive Systems-Supports research central to the design of systems to support human communication with computers and in using computers. Topics include information access and usability; speech recognition and natural language understanding; alternative input and output modalities such as gesture, facial recognition, and haptics; interfaces for people with disabilities; and virtual environments where natural and artificial entities interact with shared resources. Knowledge Models and Cognitive Systems-Supports the development of "intelligent systems." These are computational systems that produce behaviors characteristic of intelligence in humans, including planning, perception, reasoning, and problem-solving. Research topics include the representation of knowledge within intelligent systems, internal organizations for intelligent systems, and the acquisition of knowledge to modify the behavior of intelligent systems such as learning. Robotics and Machine Intelligence-Supports research essential to the design of automated systems that implement characteristics of intelligence. Topics include computer vision and visual information management, sensor-based control in intelligent robots, and automatic reasoning and planning for complex tasks that involve temporal and spatial relationships. Particular emphasis is placed (1) on the development of more intelligent and robust behavior and (2) on systems of reduced complexity but of advanced capabilities that will minimize the dependency on detailed human intervention, as well as facilitate end-user implementation of robotic systems. Proposals Involving Human Subjects Collectively, the IRIS Division supports research on human-centered information systems and digital libraries. Proposals that involve human subjects or those that use information about individuals must ensure that the subjects are protected from research risks in accordance with the Common Rule on Protection of Human Subjects (45 CFR 690) and must include the appropriate documentation. For more information, see the section titled "Proposals Involving Human Subjects" on page 12 of the NSF Grant Proposal Guide (GPG) (NSF 95-27). Microelectronic Information Processing Systems The Division of Microelectronic Information Processing Systems (MIPS) supports research through the following programs. Design Automation-Supports research on automating the design process for integrated circuit (IC) chips and systems. Exploration of novel approaches that promote automation of design in complex, high-speed, high-density technologies is encouraged. Of particular interest are techniques for design in existing (e.g., CMOS, analog), emerging (e.g., optical, MEMS), and mixed technologies. Research areas include theoretical foundations for the IC design process; models, algorithms, methodologies, tools, and frameworks for IC design; analysis and synthesis automation at all levels of design; simulation, validation, and verification methodologies; and manufacturing test algorithms and techniques. Prototyping Tools and Methodologies-Supports research on technologies, tools, methodologies, and services for prototyping experimental information processing systems. Of particular interest are issues in rapid system prototyping for experimentation and manufacturing, including the use of field-programmable gate arrays; new interconnect technologies for building high performance computing systems such as multichip modules and optoelectronics; and systems issues including interfacing, standards, and tool integration. Current approaches seek to extend the VLSI design paradigm to novel fabrication technologies, including solid free-form fabrication and micro-electromechanical systems. Other activities include design tool research that focuses on implementation issues and the physical level of system design, and the support of microelectronics education including workshops, conferences, the development of curricular and courseware materials, and educational support services such as the Metal Oxide Semiconductor Implementation System (MOSIS). Experimental Systems-Supports research projects that involve building, evaluating, and experimenting with information processing or computing systems. Systems supported by the program may include hardware or software components. These are goal-oriented projects usually undertaken by teams of designers, implementers, and users. Researchers are to implement their system and use it to perform research experiments that address significant and timely research questions. System design and implementation must represent a major intellectual effort that will advance the understanding of information processing systems architecture. The system prototypes should be suitable for exploring applications and performance issues. Computing Systems Research (CSR)-Supports the development of a fundamental understanding of computing systems, including their design, architecture, implementation, and evaluation. The styles of research employed include theoretical studies, simulations, limited proof-of-concept prototyping, and measurement of existing systems. The program scope includes computer architecture, hardware implementation, supporting system software for new architectures, interconnection architectures, storage and I/O architectures, and novel computing structures and technologies that hold the promise of radically new computing systems for the next century. Signal Processing Systems-Supports basic research in the areas of digital signal processing, analog signal processing, and hardware and software systems. This research is typically driven by important applications and emerging technology. A classification of research areas, based on signal characteristics, applications, and technology, includes one-dimensional digital signal processing dealing with the representation of time-varying signals (e.g., audio, EKG, etc.) in digital form and the processing of such signals; image and multidimensional digital signal processing that involves the acquisition, manipulation, and display of multidimensional data using digital technology; statistical signal and array processing that uses statistical techniques for the processing of signals that may arise from multiple sources; and analog signal processing that concerns the processing of data without conversion to sampled digital form. Advanced Scientific Computing The Division of Advanced Scientific Computing (ASC) supports research through the following programs. New Technologies-Supports the range of technologies needed to advance the state of the art in high performance computing and to bring advanced computing and simulation capabilities to bear on fundamental problems throughout science and engineering. In particular, the program supports research in parallel programming environments and tools, advanced algorithms and applications, and computer graphics and visualization. Postdoctoral Research Associateships in Computational Science and Engineering-Provides support across all NSF disciplinary areas for young scientists at academic research institutions to conduct research using high performance computing systems. These awards provide opportunities for recent Ph.D.s to broaden their knowledge and experience and to prepare them for significant research careers on the frontiers of contemporary computational science and engineering. Partnerships in Advanced Computational Infrastructure-This new program builds on and replaces the NSF Supercomputer Centers Program that was established in 1985 and focuses on taking advantage of newly emerging opportunities in high performance computing and communications. The program will provide flexibility to adapt to rapidly evolving circumstances and to meet the need for high-end computation in order to enable continued world leadership in computational science and engineering. It will serve the need of the academic research community by providing researchers access to high performance computing systems and to highly trained staff and researchers necessary to develop and optimize their use. The development of scalable parallel systems, high performance networking and high bandwidth, and large-capacity mass storage systems creates the opportunity for a national infrastructure consisting of a number of geographically distributed sites strongly coupled to high-end computational resources and to each other via high-speed communication networks. NSF envisions an ACI consisting of one or more leading-edge sites joined together with cooperating partners. Leading-edge sites are expected to maintain high-end hardware systems that are one to two orders of magnitude more capable than those typically available at a major research university. The partners will, collectively, complete the overall infrastructure by, among other things, (1) facilitating research and experimentation with new hardware and software; (2) providing scalable resources for applications and applications development that can be done best on mid-level systems; (3) providing access to unique experimental systems and facilities; and (4) promoting education and training. Networking and Communications Research and Infrastructure The Networking and Communications Research and Infrastructure (NCRI) Division supports research through the following programs. Networking Research-Supports research in network theory and technology. Fundamental research pertaining to wide area, regional, or local networks; wireless and wired networks; and internetworking of various types of networks is supported. Other research priorities include video, speech, image, data, and multimedia in a networking context; mobile and fixed network management; protocol theory, design, and engineering; network interface architectures; dynamic network control; optical network architectures; network security; switching and routing systems; reliable networks; and fundamental limits of networking. Communications Research-Supports research in communications and information theory and technology. Fundamental research pertaining to the communications aspects of wide area, regional, or local networks; network transmission links; wireless and wired network access from a communications perspective; and personal communications systems is supported. Other research priorities include coding and coded modulation; video, speech, image, and data compression in a communications context; information theory; storage channels; cellular and mobile communications channels and systems; communications signal processing; and radio systems. Special Projects in Networking and Communications-Supports basic research and experimental projects that focus on networking and communications systems. Examples of research topics supported are wireless access and networks, collaboration technology, especially enabled by active networks, and issues arising from the convergence of computing, communications, and information. The projects are typically submitted by small groups of researchers and include researchers in networking or communications and, as appropriate, researchers from other areas of computer science and engineering, such as operating systems, data bases, software environments, and architecture, or from the social sciences, such as economics, psychology, or sociology. NSFNET-Encourages and facilitates scholarly communication and collaboration by supporting the enhancement of networks connecting U.S. researchers and educators to information resources, computational resources, and special facilities. Other activities include supporting the connection of institutions that are not yet connected to the Internet, to a network supplier; collaboration with other nations in links between U.S. and foreign research and education networks; and promising, experimental, and demonstration networking projects. In addition to funding a very high-speed network that connects the NSF supercomputer centers and Network Access Points, the NSFNET Program provides other very high-speed links for institutions that have demonstrated the requirements for high-speed, high-bandwidth services and foster new high-bandwidth applications for networks. Cross-Disciplinary Activities The Office of Cross-Disciplinary Activities (CDA) supports research through the following activities. Educational Innovations-Supports innovative educational activities that transfer research results into undergraduate curricula in computer and information science and engineering. Projects supported are expected to act as a national model of excellence by being a prototype of educational experiences for use by a broader segment of the CISE community. Proposals may address a variety of educational activities including, but not limited to, the development of courses, instructional technologies, software, and other educational materials. Significant cost-sharing is required, usually at least one-third of the total cost. Only one proposal per institution will be accepted in any one fiscal year. Research Infrastructure-Supports the enhancement of experimental research capabilities in computer and information science and engineering by providing experimental research facilities, technical staff, and maintenance. The program emphasizes support for research groups either within or across departments or institutions and makes no distinction between large- and small-scale activities. Significant cost-sharing is required. A separate element called CISE Minority Institutional Infrastructure focuses on computer and information science and engineering activities at schools with predominantly minority enrollments. Prospective proposers are strongly encouraged to discuss possible proposals with the program officer before submitting a proposal to the program. Instrumentation-Supports the purchase of special-purpose equipment for research in all fields of computer and information science and engineering. The equipment should be necessary for the pursuit of specific research projects, be required by more than one project, and be the kind of equipment that would be difficult to justify for one project alone. The total cost must be at least $30,000. Significant cost sharing is required, usually at least one-third of the total cost. Postdoctoral Research Associateships in Experimental Science-Allows young scientists to conduct research in experimental science within the CISE disciplines at research institutions. Special Projects-Supports activities that expand opportunities for women, minorities, and persons with disabilities in computer and information science and engineering. Support is also provided for special workshops, symposia, and analytical studies of interest to the CISE Directorate. Prospective proposers are strongly urged to discuss possible proposals with the program officer before submitting a proposal. Collaborative Research in Learning Technologies-Supports research at the interface of education and information technology for the future use of technology in education. Challenges in Computer and Information Science and Engineering-Supports research that is focused on a single problem, the solution of which requires scientific advances across two or more subactivities of computer science and engineering. Participation of researchers in disciplines other than computer science and engineering is encouraged; however, successful proposals submitted directly to this program are expected to have a primary focus on computer science and engineering. The program expects to make awards to projects that involve at least two investigators. These awards will be in the range of $250,000 to $600,000 per year although a particular circumstance might justify awards outside this range. It is anticipated that most awards will be for 3 years, but longer periods will be considered if they are clearly required by the research proposed. This program is intended to complement rather than replace existing CISE programs that encourage cooperation among researchers. Chapter 3 EDUCATION AND HUMAN RESOURCES The Directorate for Education and Human Resources (EHR) is responsible for the health and continued vitality of the Nation's science, mathematics, engineering, and technology education and for providing leadership in the effort to improve education in these areas. EHR has five major long-term goals. (1) To help ensure that a high quality school education in science is available to every child in the United States and that it is sufficient to enable those who are interested, to pursue technical careers at all levels, as well as to provide a base for understanding by all citizens. (2) To help ensure that the educational pipelines that carry all students to careers in science, mathematics, and engineering yield numbers of adequately educated individuals who can meet the needs of the U.S. technical workplace. (3) To help ensure that those who select a career in a science or engineering discipline have available the best professional undergraduate and graduate education and that opportunities are available at the college level for interested nonspecialists to broaden their scientific backgrounds. (4) To encourage the development of a cadre of professionally educated and trained teachers to ensure excellence in school education for every student and learner. (5) To support informal science education programs and to maintain public interest in and awareness of scientific and technological developments. These goals provide the focus for the various activities of the directorate's seven divisions/offices described in this chapter. Educational System Reform The Division of Educational System Reform (ESR) manages a cadre of programs that encourage and facilitate coordinated approaches to the standards-based reform of science and mathematics education. Systemic reform relies on partnerships to identify needs, articulate visions, and develop goals, strategies, and activities for improvement of targeted areas. Although each initiative is unique in its approach, all must begin as a collaborative effort among individuals and organizations interested in enhancing educational opportunities for students, and to improve the scientific and technological infrastructure of a State, city, or region. The initiative develops a plan of action that will best utilize existing resources and provide for growth supported by expanding resources. ESR sponsors programs that catalyze change. Activities include the Statewide Systemic Initiatives (SSI), Urban Systemic Initiatives (USI), and Rural Systemic Initiatives (RSI). These cultivate coordination within States, cities, rural areas, school systems, and other organizations involved with education, thereby resulting in a comprehensive impact on curriculum, policy, professional development, assessment, resource allocation, and student performance. Statewide Systemic Initiatives The Statewide Systemic Initiatives (SSI) Program is a major effort by NSF to encourage improvements in science, mathematics, and engineering education through comprehensive systemic changes in the education systems of the states. State-level initiatives are an important way to reach the more than 15,000 school districts that make up the Nation's diverse school system and seed them with proven, effective methods for encouraging the spread of successful change at every level. Systemic and lasting educational improvements in the United States depend on effective State policies, State adoption of high quality materials and curricula, and well-prepared teachers and administrators. Strong State education programs and policies are vital links between national education goals and classroom implementation of the practices that will help us achieve these goals. Eligibility In fiscal year 1996, a competition limited to awardees from the 1991 cohort was held. In fiscal year 1997, a similar competition will be held for awardees from 1992. Currently 17 states and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico are active awardees. For More Information For a detailed description of this initiative, write the Statewide Systemic Initiatives Program, Directorate for Education and Human Resources, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 875, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1682; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Urban Systemic Initiatives The Urban Systemic Initiatives (USI) Program in science, mathematics, and technology education was established in fiscal year 1993 to challenge the Nation's commitment to bring about sustained school reform in its urban centers. Through this initiative, the Foundation targets the cities with the largest numbers of school-age children living in poverty, to launch systemic programs to foster experimentation, accelerate the rate of change, and implement system-wide improvement in mathematics, science, and technology for grades pre-K through 12. "Systemic" refers to fundamental, comprehensive, and coordinated changes in science, mathematics, and technology education through attendant changes in policy, resource allocation, governance, management, content, and pedagogy. The importance of USI is made apparent by the fact that urban school systems in the United States enroll approximately half of all public school students in grades K through 12. Recent studies point to a continued disparity between the academic performance of these students and that of their counterparts in suburban schools. The challenge is to reduce the gap between these groups while supporting an upward trajectory for all. The design and implementation of USI engage several organizational components of the Foundation, as well as private foundations, business and industry, and other federal agencies. Principal participants in urban areas must collaborate to develop a rich array of networks and partnerships that will ensure that all children learn quality science and mathematics. Eligibility USI Program eligibility includes the 25 cities with the largest number of school-age children (ages 5 to 17) living in economic poverty, as determined by the 1990 census. In addition, three cities in Puerto Rico have recently been identified as eligible to become USIs, bringing the total target group to 28. Currently 20 cities have received implementation awards. Deadline A competition among the remaining eight cities is planned for the second half of fiscal year 1997. The proposal receipt dates have not yet been established. For updates on program deadlines and target dates, refer to the NSF Bulletin, a monthly publication produced by the Office of Legislative and Public Affairs. For More Information For further information, write the Urban Systemic Initiatives Program, Directorate for Education and Human Resources, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 875, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1684; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Rural Systemic Initiatives The Rural Systemic Initiatives (RSI) Program completes the trilogy of Educational System Reform efforts. The goal of RSI is to promote systemic improvements in science, mathematics, and technology education for students in rural and economically disadvantaged regions of the Nation, particularly those that have been underserved by NSF programs, and to ensure sustainability of these improvements by encouraging community development activities in conjunction with instructional and policy reform. Students in rural areas, particularly those characterized by high and persistent poverty, typically receive much less instruction in science and mathematics than do students in suburban or advantaged urban classrooms. Moreover, societal conditions in such areas compound the barriers to students' achievement. Taken together, these circumstances negatively affect the children's chances of pursuing postsecondary degrees or careers that can provide a better quality of life. The cycle of poverty continues for these students, condemning them to low-skill jobs and incomes that decrease in real dollars over the course of their lives. The premise of RSI is that a variety of educational, economic, and social factors must be aligned to significantly affect the achievement levels of students in disadvantaged circumstances. Therefore, RSI proposals must be submitted on behalf of consortia formed to address curriculum reform, teacher preservice and in-service education, policy restructuring, assessment, and implementation of national standards as well as the economic and social well-being of the targeted regions. RSI has two programmatic activities: development awards (typically $100,000 to $200,000) and implementation awards (up to $2 million per year for up to 5 years). Only development awardees will be invited to submit proposals for the implementation awards. Eligibility Regions that are eligible under RSI are composed of rural counties that have been designated under the U.S. Department of Agriculture's County Types Code as 6-9, and in which 30 percent or greater of the school-age children (ages 5 to 17) are living in economic poverty, as determined by the 1990 census. Proposing consortia must include representatives from State and local education agencies, business and industry, local school districts, community colleges, health and human service agencies, and economic development agencies. State-level agencies or federally funded research and development organizations are not eligible. Deadline A competition is planned for fiscal year 1997 for development awards. For information on upcoming program plans and deadlines, refer to the NSF Bulletin, a monthly publication produced by the Office of Legislative and Public Affairs. For More Information For further information, write the Rural Systemic Initiatives Program, Directorate for Education and Human Resources, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 875, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1684; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Elementary, Secondary, and Informal Education Programs in the Division of Elementary, Secondary, and Informal Education (ESIE) work together to provide quality learning opportunities in science, mathematics, and technology (SMT) that comprehensively address the needs of all students, from pre-K through grade 12. Central to its task of promoting quality science, mathematics, and technology (SMT) education is the effective utilization of both formal (classroom) and informal education settings; promotion of collaboration and partnerships among major stakeholders; and development of capacity and resources to support systemic education reform. ESIE seeks to achieve these goals by supporting projects that develop and implement models of high quality instructional materials that are aligned with content, teaching, and assessment standards in science and mathematics, and are designed for the success of all students; strengthen teacher competencies in SMT content and pedagogy and develop a cadre of individuals (teachers and administrators) who can enhance the visibility of the teaching profession, serve as resources, and lead reform efforts; prepare students for the technological workforce and facilitate transitions from secondary school to higher education and the workplace; provide stimulating environments outside of school that increase the appreciation and understanding of science, mathematics, and technology by individuals of all ages, interests, and backgrounds, and that reinforce SMT learning acquired in formal settings; stimulate the development of innovative materials and strategies that actively engage parents in their children's education, and as proponents for quality, universally available SMT education; capitalize on networking so teachers and students can participate in research activities, share ideas, and access resources, regardless of their location, and promote the use of educational technologies to ensure that education is more accessible and adaptable to varied learning styles; and provide opportunities for the integration of research and education by enabling teachers and teacher/student teams to work beside practicing scientists, engineers, mathematicians, and technologists in research settings, in order to deepen their understanding of SMT concepts, and bring their experiences back into the classroom. Proposals are accepted in response to general program announcements and to program solicitations that focus on specific high-priority problems and opportunities. Preliminary interaction with program staff is encouraged. The division supports projects through the following programs. Teacher Enhancement Program The Teacher Enhancement (TE) Program supports professional development projects that lead to new levels of teacher competence, and a supportive school culture that empowers teachers to engage all students in rich and challenging science, mathematics, and technology (SMT) education programs. Projects improve, broaden, and deepen the disciplinary and pedagogical knowledge of teachers, and involve administrators and others who play significant roles in providing quality SMT education for students in grades pre-K through 12. Special emphasis is given to projects that implement systemic change, develop leadership infrastructure, and provide research experiences for teachers and students. Through its Local Systemic Change (LSC) projects, the TE Program enables school systems and their partners to reform the delivery of science and mathematics education in grades K through 8, or mathematics education in grades 7 through 12. These projects represent a shift in focus from professional development of the individual teacher, to that of the teacher within the context of the whole school organization. Teachers become catalysts of change and reflect on their own teaching and learning. New beliefs, skills, and behaviors are learned through inquiry and explored within a supportive culture that itself is engaged in renewal. All LSC projects implement exemplary instructional materials that are consistent with recognized standards for the content and teaching of science, mathematics, and technology. The TE Program supports additional categories of activities. First, leadership projects develop teachers who have the necessary skills to educate their peers and implement science and mathematics education reform. Selected participants (generally those who can benefit from advanced disciplinary and pedagogical enrichment) are provided leadership development and the follow-up activities needed to support them in their roles as agents of change. Second, projects that integrate research and education provide teachers the opportunity to work beside practicing scientists, mathematicians, and technologists in research-rich environments, to deepen their understanding of scientific concepts and processes. Teachers are required to translate their research experiences back to their classrooms. Third, teacher research projects can also incorporate activities for high-potential and high-ability students, engaging them in meaningful research while developing their awareness of scientific ethics and SMT career opportunities. Teacher/student teams engage in research that is relevant to school curricula, and are required to have support of administrators for implementing research experiences upon return to the school environment. Finally, projects are supported that develop training materials for teachers and instructional SMT leaders in grades pre-K through 12, in order to enhance teacher understanding, adoption, and implementation of standards-based materials and pedagogy. Eligibility Any organization with a scientific or educational mission may submit a proposal, including colleges and universities, State and local education agencies, school districts, professional societies, museums, research laboratories, print or electronic media producers, private foundations and industries, and other public and private organizations, whether profit-making or nonprofit. The TE Program especially welcomes proposals that involve the collaboration of individuals or organizations from more than one of these areas. Deadlines The target date for receipt of proposals is September 2. A preliminary proposal is required and may be submitted to the TE Program at any time through April 1. If the full proposal to be submitted is a revision of a proposal declined by a previous TE review panel, a preliminary proposal is not required. Planning and conference grants may be submitted at any time. In all cases, the starting date for a project cannot be earlier than 6 months after the proposal submission date. For More Information For further information, write the Teacher Enhancement Program, Division of Elementary, Secondary, and Informal Education, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 885, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1613; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Instructional Materials Development The Instructional Materials Development (IMD) Program supports the development of materials and strategies to promote the improvement of science, mathematics, and technology instruction at all levels so students can acquire sophisticated content knowledge, higher order thinking abilities, and problem-solving skills. Projects should promote the development and implementation of curricula and materials that are aligned with content and teaching, and assessment standards for science and mathematics, and that incorporate the latest educational technologies. Special emphasis is given to projects that support the development of various strategies and tools to assess student learning, and large-scale assessment instruments that reflect current research on how to measure student progress. All projects supported by IMD are designed for the success of all students, regardless of background, ability, or future educational plans. They promote students' positive attitudes toward science, mathematics, and technology, and positive perceptions of themselves as learners. By incorporating investigative, hands-on science and mathematics, they facilitate changes in the basic delivery of classroom instruction. Although demonstration models may be funded, projects are expected to be national in scope so that, upon completion, materials will be ready for utilization by teachers and students across the Nation. Eligibility Any organization with a scientific or educational mission may submit a proposal, including colleges and universities, State and local education agencies, professional societies, museums, research laboratories, print or electronic media producers, private foundations and industries, publishers, and other public and private organizations, whether profit-making or nonprofit. The IMD Program especially welcomes proposals that involve the collaboration of individuals or organizations from more than one of these areas. Deadlines The target date for receipt of proposals is August 15. A preliminary proposal is required and may be submitted to the IMD Program at any time through May 1. If the full proposal to be submitted is a revision of a proposal declined by a previous IMD review panel, a preliminary proposal is not required. Planning and conference grants may be submitted at any time. In all cases, the starting date for a project cannot be earlier than 6 months after the proposal submission date. For More Information For further information, write the Instructional Materials Development Program, Division of Elementary, Secondary, and Informal Education, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 885, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1614; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Informal Science Education Informal Science Education (ISE) projects provide rich and stimulating opportunities outside a formal school setting where individuals of all ages, interests, and backgrounds increase their appreciation and understanding of science, mathematics, engineering, and technology. Informal learning activities should be self-directed, lifelong, and motivated by intrinsic interests, curiosity, exploration, manipulation, fantasy, task completion, and social interaction. ISE projects take place in diverse environments (e.g., museums of all types, community centers) and involve the use of various media (e.g., broadcast, film, interactive, print). Projects are generally designed to reach large audiences and to have the potential for significant regional or national impact. The goal of the ISE Program is to promote public understanding of science, mathematics, and technology. To broaden its impact, ISE promotes collaborations that link organizations with similar goals, especially when such projects bridge the informal and formal education communities. Through collaborations, partners combine their resources and expertise to develop more effective strategies for reaching diverse target audiences, particularly those from population groups traditionally underrepresented in science, mathematics, and technology (SMT) disciplines including racial/ethnic minorities, women, rural youth, and inner-city youth. The program also strives to stimulate parents and other adults to become proponents for quality SMT education. Eligibility Any organization with expertise in providing informal science education opportunities may submit proposals. These organizations include print or electronic media producers, museums, science and technology centers, zoological parks, arboreta, national community and youth organizations, State and local education agencies, professional societies, private foundations and industries, publishers, and other public and private organizations whether profit-making or nonprofit. The ISE Program especially welcomes proposals that involve the collaborative efforts of individuals or organizations from more than one of these areas. Deadlines The target dates for receipt of proposals are June 2 and November 17. A preliminary proposal is required and may be submitted to the program at any time through march 3 and August 1, respectively. If the full proposal to be submitted is a revision of a proposed declined by a previous ISE review panel, a preliminary proposal is not required. Planning and conference grants may be substituted at any time. In all cases, the starting date for a project cannot be earlier than 6 months after the proposal submission date. For More Information For further information, write the Informal Science Education Program, Division of Elementary, Secondary, and Informal Education, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 885, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1616; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Parent Involvement in Science, Mathematics, and Technology Education In support of its overall mission to support science, mathematics, engineering, and technology research and education, NSF makes a major investment in pre-K through grade 12 education. NSF supports projects that stimulate parents, including those who serve as parent substitutes (e.g., other relatives, foster parents, day care providers), to become informed, active proponents for high quality and universally available science, mathematics, and technology (SMT) education in both school and nonschool settings; and that provide strategies and resources for parents to support their children's SMT education in the home and elsewhere. The ISE, IMD, and TE Programs will support projects to stimulate the development of innovative materials and strategies that will actively engage large numbers of parents in their children's education and in the SMT education reform. All projects should result in effective dissemination models to maximize their impact. Deadlines The target date for receipt of proposals is October 15. A preliminary proposal is required and may be submitted to the program at any time through July 15. Planning grants can be submitted at any time. In all cases, the starting date for a project cannot be earlier than 6 months after the proposal submission date. For More Information For further information, write the Informal Science Education Program, Division of Elementary, Secondary, and Informal Education, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 885, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1616; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching This program, operated by the NSF on behalf of the White House, has provided national recognition for over 2,000 outstanding elementary and secondary mathematics and science teachers in all 50 States and territories since its inception in 1983. Award recipients participate in a recognition program in Washington, D.C., where they are honored by the White House, NSF, other federal agencies, the National Academy of Sciences, the business community, and various professional organizations. Awardees also receive a $7,500 grant from NSF to improve science or mathematics education in their schools and districts. Eligibility Eligible teachers are those whose primary responsibility is classroom science or mathematics teaching in public or private elementary, middle/junior, or high schools in any of the 50 States, District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Department of Defense Dependent Schools, or the U.S. Territories. A minimum of 5 years of teaching experience is required. Deadline The deadline for State applications is usually mid-March. The applications of the 12 finalists from each State are sent to the National Selection Committee in June. The White House generally announces awardees in the fall. For More Information For further information, write the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching Program, Division of Elementary, Secondary, and Informal Education, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 885, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-0422; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Advanced Technological Education The ESIE Division, along with the Division of Undergraduate Education (DUE), supports projects that strengthen the science and mathematics preparation of technicians who are being educated for the high performance workplace of advanced technologies. ESIE supports exemplary projects in advanced technological education that have a strong secondary school focus. The Advanced Technological Education (ATE) Program supports the following types of activities involving secondary education: National and Regional Centers of Excellence for Advanced Technological Education; curriculum and instructional materials development, teacher enhancement, and student projects; and workshops, conferences, seminars, studies, and other special projects. Eligibility A more detailed description of the ATE Program including information on proposal submission, can be found in the section "Undergraduate Education," elsewhere in this chapter. Deadlines Target date for receipt of proposals is October 21. Preliminary proposals are required and may be submitted to the ATE Program at any time through April 29. If the full proposal to be submitted is a revision of a proposal declined by a previous ATE review panel, a preliminary proposal is not required. Planning and conference grants may be submitted at any time. In all cases, the starting date for a project cannot be earlier than 9 months after the proposal submission date. For More Information Inquiries about projects in grades K through 12 for the ATE Program should be directed to the Division of Elementary, Secondary, and Informal Education, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 885, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1614. Inquiries about postsecondary-level projects for the ATE Program should be directed to the Division of Undergraduate Education, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 835, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1668. Information on either of these programs can be found on the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Undergraduate Education The Division of Undergraduate Education (DUE) serves as the focal point for NSF's agency-wide effort in undergraduate education. DUE's programs and leadership efforts aim to strengthen and ensure the vitality of undergraduate education in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology for all students, including science, mathematics, and engineering majors; students in science and engineering technology programs; future teachers at the elementary and secondary school levels; and nonscience majors seeking scientific and technological literacy. Programs within the division enhance the quality of instruction in the diverse institutions of U.S. higher education, specifically 2- and 4-year colleges and universities. Particular emphasis is placed on improving access for all segments of U.S. society, including populations underrepresented in science, mathematics, and engineering, and in technical and teaching careers. DUE supports both curriculum and faculty development through projects and leadership activities. Curriculum development programs involve faculty in the creative and continuing renewal of undergraduate courses, curricula, and laboratories. The term "curriculum" is defined broadly to include both course content and instructional methodologies. Projects should reflect the latest research in teaching and learning, including the use of educational technologies. Faculty development programs address the preparation of future faculty as well as the revitalization of current faculty who teach undergraduates. Faculty members who vigorously combine teaching with scholarship are essential to quality education in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology at all levels and in all institutions. The programs described below are expected to encompass most of the activities supported by the division; however, additional ideas and mechanisms will be considered by DUE staff at any time. Areas currently receiving special attention are technological education, preparation of future teachers for grades K through 12, and interdisciplinary projects Undergraduate Course and Curriculum Development This program supports major improvement in undergraduate education through the development of new or improved courses, curricula, laboratories, and delivery systems, and nationally disseminated products. NSF's role is to encourage and support the intellectual effort necessary to restructure courses and curricula in light of current needs, new technologies, improved teaching methods, and new knowledge within and across disciplines. Activities within this program comprise the following. Course and Curriculum Development Projects-Encourages the development of courses and curricula that will help meet the Nation's need for high quality scientists, engineers, mathematicians, and technicians; dedicated and able teachers at the pre- K through grade 12 and college levels; and scientifically and technically literate citizens by supporting faculty who devote creative energy to educational activities. The activity currently emphasizes introductory-level courses for science and nonscience majors. Grants provide for the planning, implementation, assessment, and dissemination of projects that are designed to improve the curricula and learning environment, and to develop new courses, laboratories, materials, software, and technologies. Institution-Wide Reform of Undergraduate Education in Science, Mathematics, Engineering, and Technology: Progress Based on Performance-Stimulates comprehensive reform of science, mathematics, engineering, and technology education and provides national models of excellence. NSF will make awards to colleges and universities that have demonstrated success in revitalizing undergraduate education in several of their units, and that now wish to infuse the institution with these gains. It is intended that by publicly recognizing visionary comprehensive plans based on significant previous achievements, the award will catalyze modifications in the institutional culture and infrastructure that are prerequisite to systemic reform. The award does not commit NSF to fund implementation of reform plans. Rather, the aim of the award is to motivate institutions to change priorities and reallocate resources in order to support their reform initiatives. Systemic Initiatives-Fosters comprehensive and systemic reform of undergraduate science and mathematics education by encouraging institutions or coalitions of institutions, to reexamine the roles of each disciplinary department in their instructional program as a whole; to explore and exploit new relationships among disciplines; and to develop introductory and advanced courses, curricula, and materials that reflect current knowledge and use of modern technology. In addition, the reformed courses should be useful and attractive to students beyond those planning to major in a particular scientific discipline. The current initiatives, Systemic Changes in the Undergraduate Chemistry Curriculum and Mathematical Sciences and Their Applications Throughout the Curriculum, are described below. Chemistry-Supports projects designed to make fundamental changes in the role of the chemistry curriculum within institutions. Projects address the content and organization of the entire chemistry curriculum, including better integration with the curricula in related disciplines such as biology, physics, geology, materials science, engineering, computer science, and mathematics. Of particular interest are courses intended for science and engineering majors, including future technicians and future science teachers, and for nonscience majors, including future elementary school teachers. Proposals will be accepted in June 1997. These proposals must focus on the dissemination of results from the existing five awards in this program through adaptation and adoption of materials and methods from those projects. Mathematical Sciences and Their Applications Throughout the Curriculum-Promotes broad and significant improvements in undergraduate education that can lead to increased student appreciation of and ability to use mathematics. Comprehensive projects are expected to serve as national models for improving student understanding in the mathematical sciences, encouraging better integration of mathematics into other disciplines, and improving instruction in the mathematical sciences by incorporating other disciplinary perspectives. Projects must be multi- or interdisciplinary in approach, and involve several undergraduate disciplines. In fiscal year 1997, NSF will continue to encourage smaller scale proposals that address the goals of this initiative. Eligibility Proposals will be accepted for curriculum development programs from any organization or consortium with a scientific or educational mission. Deadline The deadline for submission of proposals for Course and Curriculum Development Projects, dissemination projects for the Chemistry Initiative, and for the Mathematical Sciences Initiative is June 9, 1997. Proposals are not being accepted for the Chemistry Initiative at this time, except for the dissemination projects described above; however, proposals in chemistry continue to be accepted as Course and Curriculum Development Projects. You may consult the NSF Bulletin, a monthly publication produced by the Office of Legislative and Public Affairs, for updates on the closing date for the Institution-Wide Reform Program. For More Information For guidelines on proposal preparation, see the publication Undergraduate Education (NSF 96-10). A program announcement (NSF 96-74) is available for the Institution-Wide Reform of Undergraduate Education in Science, Mathematics, Engineering, and Technology Program that contains additional information about the program. For further information on these and other curriculum development programs, write the Undergraduate Course and Curriculum Development Program, Division of Undergraduate Education, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 835, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1681; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Instrumentation and Laboratory Improvement The Instrumentation and Laboratory Improvement (ILI) Program supports projects that improve the teaching of undergraduate laboratories at all levels, and that generate new and improved approaches to laboratory and field-based instruction including innovative use of educational technologies. The program provides matching funds to purchase the equipment necessary to carry out the project. The Leadership in Laboratory Development component (formerly part of the ILI Program) has been combined with the Course and Curriculum Development Program (see description above), beginning in fiscal year 1997. Eligibility Faculty from all science, mathematics, and engineering departments at any college or university in the United States or its territories, are eligible to compete for these grants. Deadline The closing date for submission of proposals in 1996 was November 15. The closing date for submission of proposals in 1997 will be November 14. For More Information For guidelines on proposal preparation, see the publication Undergraduate Education (NSF 96-10). For further information, write the Instrumentation and Laboratory Improvement Program, Division of Undergraduate Education, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 835, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1667; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Advanced Technological Education The Division of Undergraduate Education (DUE), along with the Division of Elementary, Secondary, and Informal Education (ESIE), supports projects that strengthen science and mathematics preparation of technicians who are being educated for the high performance workplace of advanced technologies. The Advanced Technological Education (ATE)Program supports projects that focus on one or more aspects of curriculum development, faculty and teacher preparation and enhancement, institutional materials development, technical experiences for students, and instrumentation and laboratory improvement. The program also supports a few Centers of Excellence in Advanced Technological Education to provide systemic approaches to technological education and conferences, workshops, symposia, design and planning projects, studies, and other projects that lead to a better understanding of issues in advanced technological education. Eligibility Proposals may be submitted from 2-year colleges, 2-year college systems, consortia of 2-year colleges, other associate degree-granting institutions, and consortia of other appropriate organizations and institutions such as school districts, 4-year colleges and universities, professional societies, and nonprofit educational research and development groups that include 2-year colleges in leadership roles. Proposals from a formal consortium should be submitted by the consortium; proposals from an informal consortium should be submitted by one member of the consortium. Deadline The closing date for submission of preliminary proposals is April 22,1997; the date for formal proposals the date is October 21, 1997. For More Information For guidelines on preproposal and proposal preparation, see the publication Undergraduate Education (NSF 96-10). Direct inquiries about postsecondary-level projects for the ATE Program to the Division of Undergraduate Education, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 835, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1668. Direct inquiries about) projects in grades K through 12 for the ATE Program to the Division of Elementary, Secondary, and Informal Education, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 885, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1614. Further information on the ATE Program in DUE and in ESIE, is available on the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. NSF Collaboratives for Excellence in Teacher Preparation This program promotes comprehensive change in the undergraduate education of future teachers by supporting cooperative multiyear efforts to increase substantially, the quality and number of teachers who are well prepared in science and mathematics, especially those who are members of underrepresented groups. Collaboratives feature creative design in both content and method of teaching courses and curricula in mathematics and science. Collaboratives incorporate innovative approaches such as the integration of mathematics, science, and engineering; the use of advanced technologies; applications to engineering and technology; and new methods of student assessment appropriate to teaching methodologies. Collaboratives must include the leadership and participation of faculty members in science, mathematics, and engineering departments in collaboration with colleagues in education departments, and in the K through grade 12 community. Proposals for teacher preparation that are smaller in scale than a collaborative effort are welcome in the other programs within DUE. Eligibility A collaborative will typically involve a consortium of partners that may include comprehensive and research universities, 2- and 4-year colleges, schools and/or school districts, community organizations, and the private sector. Partnerships should reflect existing or desirable national and regional relationships. Deadlines The deadline date for preliminary proposal submission for a collaborative is April 1, 1997; the deadline for formal proposals the date is September 15, 1997. For More Information For guidelines on preproposal and proposal preparation, see the publication Undergraduate Education (NSF 96-10). For further information, write the NSF Collaboratives for Excellence in Teacher Preparation Program, Division of Undergraduate Education, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 835, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1669; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Undergraduate Faculty Enhancement This program supports activities that help faculty members who are primarily engaged in the instruction of undergraduates, to gain experience with recent advances in their fields, new experimental techniques, effective teaching methods, and ways of incorporating these into undergraduate instruction. The program also serves as a vehicle for dissemination and adaptation of model courses and materials developed under DUE's programs in curriculum and laboratory improvement. Projects are regional or national in scope, typically consist of hands-on short courses or workshops, and include follow-up activities that encourage sustained interaction among participants. A major component of the program is regional coalitions between 2- and 4-year institutions. Eligibility Proposals will be accepted from any organization with the scientific expertise and facilities to conduct the described activities. The subject matter of the faculty enhancement activity may be drawn from any field of science, engineering, mathematics, and technology normally supported by NSF. Deadline The closing date for submission of proposals is June 9, 1997. For More Information For guidelines on proposal preparation, see the publication Undergraduate Education (NSF 96-10). For further information, write the Undergraduate Faculty Enhancement Program, Division of Undergraduate Education, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 835, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1669; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Graduate Education The programs in the Division of Graduate Education (DGE) promote the early career development of scientists and engineers by providing fellowships and traineeships, thereby helping to ensure a steady flow of diverse, high-ability students through the educational and research training systems. Fiscal year 1996 was the last year of Presidential Faculty Fellowships (PFF) competition. The PFF Program has been replaced by the Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE) Program. PECASE will be managed jointly by the Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Coordinating Committee and the Office of Science and Technology Infrastructure (OSTI). For more information on PECASE, see Chapter 10, "Crosscutting Areas of Research and Education." The division supports projects through the following programs. Graduate and Minority Graduate Fellowships Graduate and Minority Graduate Fellowships promote the future strength of the Nation's scientific, engineering, and technological base, and reinforce the diversity of that base. NSF Graduate Fellowships offer recognition and 3 years of support for advanced study to approximately 1,000 outstanding graduate students in all fields of science, mathematics, and engineering. Of these, approximately 150 awards will be made in the Minority Graduate competition and approximately 850 in the Graduate competition. Approximately 90 awards will be in the Women in Engineering and Computer and Information Science components. For fiscal year 1997 awards, the stipend for each fellow is $14,400 for a 12-month tenure; an annual cost-of-education allowance of $9,500 is made available to the awardee's institution for each year of tenure in lieu of tuition and fees. Eligibility To be eligible for these nationwide merit competitions, candidates must be citizens, nationals, or permanent residents of the United States, and at or near the beginning of their graduate study. Competition in the Minority Graduate component is open only to those individuals who are otherwise eligible, and who are Native American (American Indian or Alaskan Native), Black (African American), Native Pacific Islander, or Hispanic. For More Information The publication Graduate and Minority Graduate Research Fellowships (NSF 96-122) contains a detailed program description and guidelines for application. For fiscal year 1997 applications, write the Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU), NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program, P.O. Box 3010, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831-3010; or contact by phone, (423) 241-4300, or by e-mail, nsfgrfp@orau.gov; or consult the ORAU Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.orau.gov/. Graduate Research Traineeships The Graduate Research Traineeships (GRT) Program is designed to increase the number of talented undergraduates enrolling in doctoral programs in critical and emerging areas of science and engineering at U.S. institutions. Graduate student support is provided to high quality doctorate-granting departments in the form of traineeship positions. The colleges and universities receiving awards are responsible for the selection and retention of trainees and for administration of their grants. Deadline When available, information will be announced on the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. For More Information For further information, write the Division of Graduate Education, Directorate for Education and Human Resources, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 907, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1630. NSF-NATO Postdoctoral Fellowships in Science and Engineering Including Special Fellowship Opportunities for Visiting Scientists and Engineers from Cooperation Partner Countries At the request of the Department of State, NSF administers a program of NATO Postdoctoral Fellowships to promote a closer collaboration among the scientists and engineers of member and cooperation partner nations. Approximately 35 awards are made each year to outstanding young U.S. scientists or engineers to enable them to study and conduct research in other NATO member or NATO-defined cooperation partner countries; and visiting scientists and engineers from NATO cooperation partner countries who may have proposals submitted on their behalf by U.S. institutions for postdoctoral study or research at the submitting institution. NATO member countries include Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. Eligible NATO cooperation countries are Albania, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, and the 15 republics of the former Soviet Union (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Estonia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan). The program provides a monthly stipend of $2,750 plus dependency and travel allowance for a tenure of 12 months. Eligibility U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents who have received their doctorates within the past 5 years or who will have done so by the start of their tenure may apply for a NSF-NATO Postdoctoral Fellowships. Visiting scientists and engineers from cooperation partner countries who are within 5 years of their doctoral degree, are eligible to be nominated by U.S. institutions. For More Information The guidelines for 1997 applications should be available in the fall of 1996. For further information regarding NSF-NATO Postdoctoral Fellowships, write the NSF-NATO Postdoctoral Fellowships Program, Directorate for Education and Human Resources, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 907, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1696; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Travel Grants for NATO Institutes The Foundation awards travel grants of $1,000 each to enable young U.S. scientists to attend select NATO Advanced Study Institutes (ASI) held predominantly in the NATO member countries of Europe. These 2- to 3-week instructional courses conducted by notable scientists and engineers are scheduled throughout the year, although the majority of them are held during the summer. Eligibility The director of a NATO Advanced Study Institute may nominate a U.S. citizen, national, or permanent resident who is a graduate student or who has received a Ph.D. within the past 3 years and has been accepted at a NATO institute. Lists of institutes appear in the final January editions of the publications Nature, New Scientist, Science, and La Recherche. For More Information For further information, write the ASI Travel Awards Program, Directorate for Education and Human Resources, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 907, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1694; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. NSF Postdoctoral Fellowships in Science, Mathematics, Engineering, and Technology Education The Foundation announces a newly created competition for Postdoctoral Fellowships in Science, Mathematics, Engineering, and Technology Education (PFSMETE). In fiscal year 1997, the Foundation hopes to support up to 20, 2-year fellowships for study and research at the early career postdoctoral level, each under the guidance of skilled, experienced educators and mentors. The primary objectives of the program will be to increase the size and quality of the pool of science, mathematics, engineering, and technology professionals capable of assuming leadership roles in our Nation's efforts to improve curriculum design, development, and assessment as well as teacher training; and to stimulate the expansion of existing graduate education programs by assisting the professional development of the Nation's pool of Ph.D.-level scientists and engineers. Eligibility Details are currently being determined and when available, will be posted on the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov. Deadline The deadline for this program had not been determined at the printing of this publication. For More Information Contact the Division of Graduate Education in the Directorate for Education and Human Resources, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 907, Arlington, Virginia 22230. Human Resource Development The programs in the Division of Human Resource Development (HRD) reflect the Foundation's commitment to developing the resources of the scientific and technical community as a whole. The division has primary responsibility for broadening participation of underrepresented groups in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology (SMET). The division operates and coordinates a range of programs that focus on increasing the presence of underrepresented minorities, women and girls, and persons with disabilities in science and engineering. The approach includes a coordinated set of efforts to prepare, attract, and retain increased numbers of underrepresented minority students in SMET at the precollege through undergraduate levels; activities for women and girls that can produce immediate and long-term positive changes in the infrastructure of SMET education; efforts to facilitate greater involvement of students and faculty with disabilities in SMET, and in NSF-supported activities; and activities to strengthen research and training capabilities of academic institutions with predominantly minority student enrollments. These activities can be implemented in all NSF-funded disciplines and, except where noted, in all academic institutions and nonprofit organizations. The division supports these goals through the following programs. Underrepresented Minorities and Other Students The Foundation considers the improved preparation and advancement of underrepresented minorities in SMET at all educational levels, to be of prime importance to the Nation. Consequently, the Foundation has redesigned and enhanced its initiatives aimed at developing minority student talent, and at strengthening the capabilities of institutions that serve large numbers of these students at all educational levels. Underrepresented minority groups in SMET are Native Americans (American Indians or Alaskan Natives), Blacks (African Americans), Pacific Islanders, and Hispanics. Current HRD efforts for minority and other students are focused on two major objectives-student development and strengthening the capabilities of minority institutions. These efforts are described below. Student Development These programs represent a coherent effort to stimulate organizational and institutional change to markedly improve the quality of educational opportunities available to minority and other students; and to increase the quality and quantity of these students pursuing degrees in SMET. Overall NSF goals for the decade are (1) to double the current number of high school graduates with both interest in and adequate preparation for further studies in SMET; (2) to increase the B.S. degree attainment of students in SMET threefold, to an annual rate of 50,000; and (3) to increase minority student attainment of Ph.D.s in SMET sixfold, to an annual rate of 2,000. These programs are grouped under three areas of focus: precollege, undergraduate, and graduate. The following further describes these areas. Precollege Focus Program The precollege program enhances career access by stimulating and supporting elementary and secondary students' interests in mathematics and science. Comprehensive Partnerships for Mathematics and Science Achievement (CPMSA)-Is a comprehensive precollege program that builds on NSF's strategy of forging alliances for systemic reform. The program gives support to city school systems so they can create partnerships to improve the access to science and mathematics education for students in grades pre-K through 12. School systems are encouraged to create partnerships with institutions of higher education, businesses, professional organizations, community-based organizations,a nd other educational organizations. City school systems, which are the units of change, are expected to work with these partners on the design and implementation of in-school student enrichment and teacher enhancement activities, and informal education efforts. Award Size and Duration Awards provide up to $200,000 for the first year, and up to $800,000 a year in support for the next 4 years. Eligibility City school systems eligible to participate in CPSMA are those that are not eligible to participate in the Urban Systemic Initiatives (USI) Program, and that have not received a Local Systemic Change (LSC) Program award. Undergraduate Focus Program This is an endeavor to (1) increase the number of minority and other students who successfully complete baccalaureates in SMET and (2) increase the number of students continuing on for related graduate degrees through scholarships and outreach assistance. Alliances for Minority Participation (AMP)-Supports the establishment of comprehensive approaches to (1) increase the number and quality of underrepresented minorities and other students who successfully earn SMET baccalaureate degrees; and (2) increase the number who go on for graduate study in these fields. This objective facilitates the long-term goal of increasing the production of Ph.D.s in SMET fields, with an emphasis on entry into faculty positions. The Foundation requires partnerships among academic institutions, government agencies and laboratories, industry, and professional organizations. These coalitions will produce multidisciplinary or disciplinary approaches to achieve the program goals at the undergraduate level. Success will be measured by the ability to bring about significant, quantifiable, and qualitative enhancements in SMET participation. Eligible activities include student enrichment, academic enrichment, and curriculum improvement. Award Size and Duration The award size of an AMP project depends on the extent and scope of the activities being undertaken. However, the NSF contribution to a project will not normally exceed $1 million per year. Awards will initially be made for up to 5 years. Eligibility Academic institutions that have a track record of producing minority and other students in SMET disciplines are eligible to apply to all programs under this initiative. Nonprofit organizations serve as members of the alliance or partnership. Deadlines There is an annual deadline date for both precollege and undergraduate minority student development programs. These dates vary by program. The fiscal year 1998 deadline dates will be announced in the NSF Bulletin, a monthly publication produced by the Office of Legislative and Public Affairs. Detailed guidelines for proposals are contained in the publication Human Resource Development for Science, Mathematics, and Engineering in Education and Research (NSF 96-144). For More Information For further information, write the Division of Human Resource Development, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 815, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1640; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Graduate Focus Programs The Foundation recognizes that academic institutions with significant minority student enrollments play a vital role in conducting research that contributes to our knowledge-base in all disciplines, and in educating minority students who go on to careers in SMET. The HRD Division operates the following program, designed to strengthen the research and training base at these institutions. Centers of Research Excellence in Science and Technology (CREST)-Aims to increase the number of underrepresented minorities in SMET by making substantial resources available to upgrade the capabilities of the most research-productive minority institutions. These resources provide increased opportunities for minority faculty and students to engage in research. At the same time, the program enables these institutions to use their resources and research, to increase the effectiveness of related SMET activities for other institutions in their regions. Eligibility Institutions participating in CREST are those that have at least a 50 percent enrollment of minority students who are underrepresented in SMET; graduate programs in NSF-supported fields of science or a baccalaureate program in engineering; demonstrated strengths in NSF-related fields as evidenced by an existing or developing capacity to offer doctoral degrees in one or more SMET disciplines; a willingness and capacity to serve as a regional resource center; and a demonstrated commitment to enrolling and graduating minority scientists and engineers. Award Size and Duration CREST implementation awards provide up to $1 million each year, for an initial award period of 5 years, to implement a comprehensive research and training improvement plan. Subsequent funding for additional years may be available if the following criteria are being met: (1) a sufficient research quality base has been developed; (2) minority students are attaining SMET degrees; and (3) there is high potential for continued institutional enhancement in the CREST-supported disciplines. However, no institution will receive more than 10 years of support. Deadline The program will accept new proposals in fiscal year 1997. Proposals must be postmarked by December 1 of each competition year. Detailed guidelines for proposals are contained in the publication Human Resource Development for Science, Mathematics, and Engineering in Education and Research (NSF 96-144). For More Information For further information, write the Division of Human Resource Development, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 815, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1640; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring Program (PAESMEM) Two of the major goals in the national policy on science and technology are the production of the finest scientists and engineers for the twenty-first century, and scientific literacy for all. One strategy to maximize the Nation's demonstrated excellence in the production of scientists and engineers is to actively increase the participation of talent reflective of the Nation's diversity. Mentoring and role modeling are recognized to be important ingredients in the development of talent among groups traditionally underrepresented in science, mathematics, and engineering. Therefore, in 1996, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), through its National Science and Technology Council (NSTC), established the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring Program. Under this program, the awards recognize outstanding mentoring efforts and programs that have enhanced the participation of individuals from groups underrepresented in these fields, namely, minorities, women, and persons with disabilities. The awardees serve as exemplars to their colleagues and will be leaders in the national effort to more fully develop the Nation's human resources in science, mathematics, and engineering. Administered by the NSF, each award includes a grant in the amount of $10,000 and a Presidential commemorative certificate. Approximately twenty (10 individual and 10 institutional) one-time awards will be made annually. Each awardee will be invited to Washington, D.C., for an awards ceremony; recognition events and meetings with leaders in federal sector education and research; and workshops and symposia focusing on effective mentoring of students from underrepresented groups. Eligibility Awards are made to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding and sustained mentoring and effective guidance to a significant number of students at the K through grade 12, undergraduate, or graduate education level; or to institutions or organizations that, through their programming, have enabled a substantial number of students underrepresented in science, mathematics, and engineering, to successfully pursue and complete the relevant degree programs. It is expected that awards would be directed back into the recognized activity. Deadline The individual, institution, or organization must be nominated by a colleague, administrator, institution, organization, or student. Deadline dates for participation in fiscal year 1997 will be announced in the NSF Bulletin, a monthly publication produced by the Office of Legislative and Public Affairs. For More Information For more information, write the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring Program, Division of Human Resource Development, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 815, Arlington, VA 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1640. Program for Women and Girls Projects addressing the participation of women and girls in science and engineering are encouraged in all programs within the EHR Directorate. Because women are underrepresented in most disciplines, the HRD Division supports focused interventions that are specifically directed at increasing the number of women as full participants in the mainstream of the Nation's scientific and technological enterprise. Implementation and Development Projects for Women and Girls-Seek to encourage the design and implementation of innovative, highly focused activities, strategies, or materials to improve educational achievement, and to encourage entry or retention of women and girls in SMET. Projects are built on existing intervention models or research in new settings that create positive, permanent changes in the academic, scientific, and social climate. Projects are both instructional and motivational. Eligibility Eligible institutions and organizations include colleges and universities; nonprofit, nonacademic groups such as professional associations, museums, private foundations, and youth-centered and community-based organizations; and State and local governments, including school districts. Award Size and Duration The annual award size will depend on the nature and scope of the project, with a maximum funding level of $300,000 per year. Projects will have a maximum duration of 3 years. Subsequent funding after the first year will be contingent on satisfactory progress, as defined in the evaluation plan and reported to NSF, as well as on the availability of funds. Deadline Preliminary proposals with a budget over $100,000 have a target date of January 2. Formal proposals must be submitted by May 1. Preliminary proposals with budgets under $100,000 have a target date of October 1, and formal proposals with budgets under $100,000 have a target date of February 1. Detailed guidelines for proposals are contained in the publication EHR Activities for Women and Girls in Science, Engineering, and Mathematics (NSF 96-131). Information Dissemination Activities-Include but are not limited to media, such as videotapes or brochures, conferences, teleconferences, symposia, and workshops that bring together experts to discuss issues, projects, policies, and research relating to the participation and achievement of women and girls in science, engineering, and mathematics. They can focus on research topics or on the development or dissemination of strategies for reducing the barriers for women and girls in these areas. Eligibility Eligible institutions and organizations include colleges and universities; nonprofit, nonacademic groups such as professional associations, museums, private foundations, and youth-centered and community-based organizations; and State and local governments including school districts but not individual schools. Only one proposal per organization per year will be accepted. Brief (maximum five pages), informal preliminary proposals are required; the proposers will be notified in writing whether they are encouraged to submit formal proposals. Award Size and Duration Support for symposia, workshops, conferences, and publications will not exceed $75,000. The award size for other types of projects that relate to the nature of this effort will not exceed $100,000. Deadline Proposals may be submitted at any time; however, a preliminary proposal is required. Conference requests should be made at least 12 months prior to the proposed activity date. Detailed guidelines for proposals are contained in the publication EHR Activities for Women and Girls in Science, Engineering, and Mathematics (NSF 96-131). For More Information For further information, write the Program for Women and Girls, Division of Human Resource Development, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 815, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1637, or by e-mail, hrdwomen@nsf.gov; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Programs for Persons with Disabilities The Activities for Persons with Disabilities Program is committed to bringing about needed change in academic and professional climates. The program's goals are to develop new methods of teaching science and mathematics, to increase the awareness and recognition of the needs and capabilities of students with disabilities, to promote the accessibility and appropriateness of instructional materials and educational technologies, and to increase the availability of mentoring resources. In short, efforts are dedicated to changing the factors wherein neglect, paucity, and indirection historically have stifled the early interest in science and mathematics shown by students with disabilities and that have impeded the advancement of these individuals as they prepared themselves for careers in science, engineering, and mathematics fields. Although the Foundation encourages persons with disabilities to participate fully in NSF-supported programs, the HRD Division has initiated efforts focused on (1) eliminating barriers in science, engineering, and mathematics studies that prevent the participation of students with disabilities; (2) changing the attitudes of the education community and the public in general, about the potential of persons with disabilities; and (3) offering aid for adaptive technologies and assistance to allow students, scientists, engineers, and mathematicians to participate in NSF-supported research projects. Model Projects for Persons with Disabilities-Promotes the development and dissemination of innovative intervention strategies that reduce the barriers that inhibit the interest, retention, and advancement of students with disabilities in SMET education and career tracks. The goals of these projects are to encourage the design and implementation of innovative, short-term, and highly focused activities; to prepare existing intervention strategies for wide dissemination; and to disseminate widely effective intervention models in science, engineering, and mathematics for students with disabilities. Eligibility Eligible institutions and organizations include universities and colleges; nonprofit, nonacademic institutions such as professional associations, museums, private foundations, and youth-centered and community-based organizations; and State and local governments, including school districts. Award Size and Duration Supports projects for up to $100,000 for 1 year. The Foundation recognizes that 1 year may not be sufficient to conduct a project, complete necessary analysis, and prepare reports for dissemination. Proposals that require 2 year's duration will be accepted. Deadlines Preliminary proposals must be received no later than July 15. Proposers will be notified in writing within 4 weeks whether they are encouraged to submit a formal proposal. Formal proposals must be received no later than October 1. Information Dissemination Projects-Support symposia, workshops, and the development of information on techniques, instructional materials, technologies, and adaptations that promote full inclusion and participation of students with disabilities in SMET curricula. The program informs the scientific and educational communities and the general public of the potential in science, engineering, and mathematics of persons with disabilities. Dissemination efforts may be national in scope or may be designed to stimulate dialogue and action on a more regional basis. Eligibility Eligible institutions and organizations include universities and colleges; nonprofit, nonacademic institutions such as professional associations, museums, private foundations, and youth-centered and community-based organizations; and State and local governments including school districts. Award Size and Duration Support is limited to $100,000 per year for a maximum of 2 years. Budgets for workshops may include participant support for transportation, subsistence, publication of proceedings, and other conference-related costs. Deadlines Preliminary proposals (maximum five single-spaced pages) are required. Proposers will be notified in writing within 4 weeks whether they are encouraged to submit a formal proposal. Formal proposals must be received no later than October 1. Facilitation Awards for Scientists and Engineers with Disabilities (FASED)-Provide funding for students and faculty with disabilities to obtain special equipment and services needed to reduce or remove barriers so they can participate in research and training activities supported by NSF. Requests for special equipment or assistance may be included in the original proposal submitted to any Foundation program or may be submitted as a separate request for supplemental funding. Eligibility Individuals with disabilities eligible for this support include principal investigators and other senior professionals and graduate and undergraduate students. Award Size No maximum amount has been set for requests; however, it is expected that the cost, which includes equipment adaptation and installation, will not be a major portion of the total proposed budget for the projects. Deadlines There is an annual deadline for each NSF program to receive FASED proposals. The dates vary by program. Deadline dates will be announced in the NSF Bulletin, a monthly publication produced by the Office of Legislative and Public Affairs. Detailed guidelines for proposals are contained in the publication Activities in Science, Engineering, and Mathematics for Persons with Disabilities (NSF 96-88) or the brochure, Facilitation Awards for Scientists and Engineers With Disabilities (NSF 91-54). For More Information For further information, write the Program for Persons with Disabilities, Division of Human Resource Development, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 815, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1636; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) The Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) increases the research and development (R&D) competitiveness of eligible States through development of the science and technology (S&T) talent residing in their major research universities. It does so by stimulating sustainable S&T infrastructure improvements at the State and institutional levels that add measurable value to the existing situation, and by accelerating the transition of EPSCoR researchers and institutions into the mainstream of federal and private sector R&D support. Adopting a proactive role, NSF cooperates with State leaders in government, higher education, and business to establish productive long-term partnerships. In each State, NSF's role is catalytic in nature and is designed to stimulate local action that will result in lasting improvements to the State's academic research infrastructure. Infrastructure within the context of EPSCoR relates to new resource flows generated through changes in organizational structures, policies, programs, and practices that will support enhanced research competitiveness beyond the duration of the EPSCoR award. It also encompasses new modes of interuniversity collaboration and new working relationships between and among universities, federal agencies, State government(s), private sector, and other stakeholder communities within a State or region. Significant local investment in graduate research and training is a characteristic of the NSF/State partnership. During the history of EPSCoR, NSF has invested over $150 million, and the States have provided over $300 million in support of increased R&D competitiveness. Eligibility EPSCoR operates within 18 States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. These States are Alabama, Arkansas, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming. Deadline The deadline for submission or proposals is determined by the EPSCoR solicitation among the eligible participants. For More Information For further information, write the EPSCoR Office, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 875, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1683; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Research, Evaluation, and Communication Since its inception in 1992, the Division of Research, Evaluation, and Communication (REC) has supported projects that help bridge research to classroom practices, especially those that lay foundations for the use of technology. REC programs foster systemic thinking about development and delivery of science and mathematics instruction and measure change in educational programs by evaluating how EHR programs work. Through fiscal year 1996, REC supported several programs across three broad activity areas essential to EHR and education communities outside of NSF. Those activity areas were fundamental research and technology implementation; policy-oriented studies and indicators; and outcomes and outreach. During 1996, the division undertook a substantial reconceptualization of its role in enabling the processes of systemic education reform. Building on lessons learned and advances in research and development, REC reformulated its three broad activity areas and simultaneously sharpened its focus on investments that enhance the quality and impact of SMET education. In fiscal year 1997, the REC Division will sponsor (singularly or jointly with other directorates, where indicated) the following programs. Research on Education, Policy, and Practice (REPP) The REPP Program will support cultivation of a research base for implementing innovative K through 16 (elementary, secondary, and undergraduate) reform strategies, as well as ways of improving graduate, professional, informal, and lifelong learning. REPP complements the NSF-wide initiative on Learning and Intelligent Systems (LIS), including Collaborative Research on Learning Technologies (CRLT), which are further described in Chapter 10, "Crosscutting Areas of Research and Education." REPP strives to assemble a diverse, interdisciplinary portfolio that addresses the many dimensions of SMET reform through theory, research, development, demonstration, and implementation. The program will serve the EHR implementation agenda by building a knowledge base of ideas, practices, and policy alternatives that can significantly affect the education of all students, and help produce and synthesize results that are of immediate application by various stakeholders in quality education (i.e., practitioners, administrators, policy-makers, software developers, scholars). REPP consolidates the foci formerly supported by the Application of Advanced Technologies, Research in Teaching and Learning, and Studies and Indicators Programs. Research foci appropriate for consideration under the REPP Program are the following: Data, Methodology, and Theory-How the collection, presentation, use, and interpretation of measurements can inform researchers and decision-makers. New studies are invited, especially those featuring longitudinal data or meta-analyses, that provide decision-makers and the general public with national and international measures of the inputs, processes, and educational outcomes of the current SMET educational system. Policy-Issues of governance that affect both ongoing practice and the perception of whole systems, schools, teachers, and students, including matters of finance, access, curriculum, assessment, and professional development. Studies should analyze major factors, trends, choices, and practices to assist stakeholder communities in recognizing, adapting, and institutionalizing improvements in pedagogy and materials. Practice-How those at the sites where formal or informal education occurs can effect change through research and analysis. How observations, findings, and prototypes generated at particular sites can be applied to hypothesis-testing and theory-building more generally about the practice of systemic reform. Technology-How tools that link individuals and institutions dispersed in space and across cultures can be used to teach and learn the changing content of science and mathematics; how the evolving capacity of computers, including high performance computing and communications, can improve the teaching and learning of increasingly complex content, and alter what is taught through the power of technology to represent and manipulate concepts, processes, and knowledge. Eligibility Eligible applicants include single investigators or research teams at public and private 2- and 4-year colleges and universities, and other organizations and associations with an education mission (e.g., local school systems, community-based organizations, think tanks, industry, etc.). Deadlines Preliminary proposals are required no later than September 15 and March 15 (although they are reviewed on a continuing basis throughout the year); full proposals must be postmarked no later than December 1 or June 1 to be considered for an award. For More Information A detailed program announcement is available from the NSF Forms and Publications Office by telephone, (703) 306-1130, or by e-mail, pubs@nsf.gov; and on the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. The REC Division can be reached by telephone at (703) 306-1650. Learning and Intelligent Systems The Learning and Intelligent Systems (LIS) Initiative is an NSF-wide program that encompasses the study of learning in natural and artificial systems. The goal of LIS is to energize radical and rapid advances in our understanding of learning, creativity, and productivity, as well as develop the tools that will enhance the human ability to learn and create. LIS seeks to integrate and foster synergy among basic research in numerous disciplines that study natural and artificial "learning," including human and developmental psychology, computational neuroscience, neuroengineering, intelligent control theory, cognitive science, artificial intelligence, linguistics, animal psychology, machine learning, education and educational technology, computer science, systems theory, mathematics, and statistics. Funded projects are expected to support the creation of new research paradigms by encouraging the weaving together of common threads among multiple disciplines. The initiative will support high risk interdisciplinary research not otherwise funded under existing NSF programs. The initiative's goal of enhancing the ability to learn and create will be achieved by fostering connections between natural and artificial systems and by developing a sophisticated understanding of human learning, systems integration, and intelligent behavior, coupled with research and development on enabling technologies. Projects should be characterized by their potential to make great strides in deepening the knowledge-base rather than by taking incremental steps. Multidisciplinary research teams, cultivating new, innovative collaborations built on prior efforts, are seen as appropriate for successful projects. LIS should promote cooperation among relevant research communities and nurture scientific discussions across disciplinary boundaries. Proposals must have core research content related to learning in both natural and artificial systems, spanning more than one discipline, and more than one NSF directorate. Participating directorates include Biological Sciences, Computer and Information Science and Engineering, Education and Human Resources, Engineering, Mathematical and Physical Sciences, and Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences. Priority for funding of LIS projects will be given to proposals in which the cross-disciplinary links involve a serious sharing or blending of paradigms, models, and empirical validation criteria, as well as to proposals that have the potential to break new ground, mobilize new human resources, and lead to fundamental changes in methodology. In fiscal year 1996, NSF established the Collaborative Research on Learning Technologies (CRLT) Program as a first step in defining the scope of LIS. The objective of CRLT was to stimulate research on the integration of technology with learning at all levels of education, including self-directed and lifelong learning. Funding and management of CRLT came from EHR and three NSF research directorates. Twelve planning awards for CRLT Centers were made in fiscal year 1996. In fiscal year 1997, the goals of the CRLT activity will be incorporated into the LIS initiative. The continuing CRLT component of LIS seeks proposals for collaborative projects that contribute to the creative integration of basic research in education with basic research in information technology, as well as projects to establish one or more (real or virtual) Centers for Collaborative Research on Learning Technologies. Eligibility Please refer to the program announcement (see "For More Information" below) for specific details on eligible researchers, institutions, etc. Deadlines Preproposals are required and must be received by February 7, 1997. Full proposals are by invitation only, and must be received by May 15, 1997. For More Information The program announcement Learning and Intelligent Systems Initiative (NSF 97-18) is available from the NSF Forms and Publications Office by telephone, (703) 306-1130, or by e-mail, pubs@nsf.gov; and on the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. The Research, Evaluation, and Communication Division can be reached by phone at (703) 306-1650. Evaluation The Evaluation Program has a 5-year plan to evaluate the science, mathematics, engineering, and technology education initiatives of NSF. Evaluation findings may be used by the Foundation to improve science education programs by principal investigators as they direct their own education projects and by policy-makers, administrators, and members of the instructional workforce who implement and adapt the various products of NSF programs, including materials, computer software, teaching strategies, or research findings. Evaluations and impact studies are produced under competitively awarded contracts by outside organizations. The program also may accept proposals and grant funds for the development of innovative techniques, approaches, and methodologies for the general improvement of the field. Communication The Communication Program coordinates activities within the EHR Directorate that advance understanding of education reform and the methods, policies, and practices under which effective reform takes place and is sustained. REC communication and outreach activities are intended to enhance public understanding of SMET education reform strategies so that citizens can make informed choices about the direction of reform in their communities and schools, and to increase the impact of EHR programs by providing to a variety of audiences (especially practitioners, information that summarizes and synthesizes the findings, outcomes, and lessons learned from EHR-supported projects. Chapter 4 ENGINEERING The Directorate for Engineering (ENG) makes catalytic investments in knowledge creation and intellectual growth that can in turn spur technological innovation and economic growth in an increasingly swift, complex, and interconnected world. Although the research supported by ENG is fundamental in nature, much of it focuses on societal needs. Over the long term, ENG investments contribute to an innovation system that enables the creation of valuable new products, new services, and new and more productive enterprises that enhance the Nation's future economic strength, security, and quality of life. Engineering research and education often require creative contributions from several different disciplinary perspectives. Worthy proposals from groups of intermediate size that involve a diverse mix of faculty expertise and student experiences receive increased emphasis for the opportunities they provide to address significant new issues with a synergistic approach. Overall, NSF provides about 33 percent of the total federal support for fundamental engineering research at U.S. universities and colleges. More than 70 percent of the directorate's funding is used to provide grants to individual investigators and small groups. To amplify its efforts, ENG focuses on facilitating dynamic partnerships among industry, academe, other federal agencies, State and local governments, professional societies, and foreign countries. For example, strong support is given to the Grant Opportunities for Academic Liaison with Industry (GOALI) Program. GOALI awards bring university and industry collaborators together at the conceptual phase of a research and education endeavor. Strengthening these intellectual connections increases the value of engineering education and fundamental research to the private sector and opens up exciting new areas of inquiry for university researchers. (For more information on GOALI, see Chapter 10, "Crosscutting Areas of Research and Education.") The directorate's six divisions are as follows. The Bioengineering and Environmental Systems (BES) Division is concerned with expanding the knowledge base of bioengineering; extending engineering methodologies to include the solution of problems in the biological, medical, and ocean sciences; employing biological principles for the development of innovative engineering methods and systems; and exploring basic engineering concepts and systems to enable sustainable development. The Chemical and Transport Systems (CTS) Division funds research that contributes to the knowledge base of a large number of industrial manufacturing processes that involve the transformation and transport of matter and energy. The transformation process may be chemical, biological, physical, or a combination of these. The industrial processes involve a wide range of technological pursuits and are found in such industries or areas as aerospace, electronics, chemicals, recovery of natural resources, civil infrastructure, environment, petroleum, biochemicals, materials, food, power generation, and allied activities. CTS supports research that involves the development of fundamental engineering principles, process control and optimization strategies, mathematical models, and experimental techniques, with an emphasis on projects that have the potential for innovation and broad application in areas such as environment, materials, and chemical processing. Special emphasis is on environmentally benign chemical and material processing. The Civil and Mechanical Systems (CMS) Division seeks to improve and expand fundamental engineering knowledge in the broad areas of mechanics, structures, geomedia, constructed systems, industrial materials engineering, and their integration in civil infrastructure systems. It also seeks to increase the basic engineering understanding of potentially destructive natural phenomena such as earthquakes, floods, sea level rise, greenhouse effects, expanding and collapsing soils, destructive winds, landslides, tsunamis, and storm surges and to develop techniques to mitigate their impacts on society. Support is given for research that will improve existing construction and industrial processes; create new technology in areas such as the formulation and processing of innovative engineering materials; improve the management of contaminant transport in geomedia; enhance the performance and service life of machines and equipment; improve the development of underground space; and create more efficient construction techniques for large-scale structures. The Division of Design, Manufacture, and Industrial Innovation (DMII) seeks to improve the intellectual foundations of design and manufacturing systems by identifying key research issues in partnership with industry, government, and academe and by funding research and education in the areas of design, manufacturing systems, manufacturing equipment, manufacturing processes, management of technological innovation, operations research, and production systems to generate new knowledge to address those issues. Additionally, through NSF's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program, DMII supports research leading to the improvement of U.S. industrial productivity and commercialization of new knowledge through outreach to the small business community. The Electrical and Communications Systems (ECS) Division supports research and education activities that develop fundamental engineering knowledge essential for innovation and advances in systems that underpin an information-rich, knowledge-oriented technological society, and that yield engineering graduates with the diverse set of skills needed for productive careers. The division's activities are designed to advance core electrical engineering competencies that impact engineering systems, by focusing upon the physical foundations of key enabling technologies and upon systems control, optimization, and computational strategies. The division also seeks to stimulate integrative systems-oriented activities and collaborative research environments which promote the infusion of research and education advances generated in the ECS community with linkages to other engineering and science communities. The division also provides support for specialized resources and infrastructure that can enhance the academic endeavors. The Engineering Education and Centers (EEC) Division seeks to stimulate new paradigms in engineering research and education that will accelerate technological innovation and improve the quality and diversity of engineering graduates who are entering the technical workforce. To achieve its mission, EEC facilitates partnerships across sectors. Disciplines are integrated to focus on technological systems, academe is linked with industry and the States, and diverse academic institutions are joined in curricular and educational innovations. The objective is to yield well-rounded, professionally oriented engineers with a global outlook and the ability to assume leadership roles in industry, academe, and society. Eligibility Most awards result from unsolicited proposals, which should be prepared according to the guidelines set forth in the Grant Proposal Guide (GPG) (NSF 95-27). In addition to the proposal format described in the GPG, investigators should be cognizant of any guidelines specific to the program area that best matches the intellectual content of their proposal. Proposers may wish to discuss their idea with an NSF program officer before submitting a full proposal. For further information or to view an up-to-date directory of programs and staff, refer to the ENG Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.eng.nsf.gov/. Deadlines and Target Dates For deadlines and target dates for the programs described in this section, refer to the NSF Bulletin, a monthly publication produced by the Office of Legislative and Public Affairs, or consult the ENG Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.eng.nsf.gov/. For More Information For further information, write the Senior Engineering Coordinator, Directorate for Engineering, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 505, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by e-mail, enginfo@nsf.gov, by phone, (703) 306-1302, or by Fax, (703) 306-0289; or consult the ENG Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.eng.nsf.gov/. Bioengineering and Environmental Systems The Bioengineering and Environmental Systems (BES) Division supports research through the following programs and activities. Biotechnology/Biochemical Engineering-Supports research that links the expertise of engineering with the life sciences to provide a fundamental basis for the economical manufacturing of substances of biological origin. Projects are supported that utilize biological microorganisms for the transformation of organic, raw materials (biomass) into useful products. Fermentation and recombinant DNA processes are important technologies to this program. Food processing, especially the safety of the Nation's food supply, is an emerging area. Engineers or small groups of engineers and scientists are encouraged to apply. Synergy among the various disciplines in these types of projects is a very important evaluation criterion. Research areas include, but are not limited to, cell culture systems, metabolic engineering, sensor development, bioreactor design, separation and purification processes, monitoring, optimization and control methods, and process integration. Biomedical Engineering/Research to Aid Persons with Disabilities-Supports fundamental engineering research that has the potential to contribute to improved health care and the reduction of health care costs. Other areas include models and tools for understanding biological systems. Areas of interest include, but are not limited to, fundamental improvements in deriving information from cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems; extraction of useful information from complex biomedical signals; new approaches to the design of structures and materials for eventual medical use; and new methods of controlling living systems. This program is also directed toward the characterization, restoration, and substitution of normal functions in humans. Emphasis is placed on the advancement of fundamental engineering knowledge rather than on product development. The research might lead to the development of new technologies or the novel application of existing technologies. Also supported are undergraduate engineering design projects, especially those that provide prototype "custom-designed" devices or software for persons with mental or physical disabilities. Environmental Systems-Supports sustainable developmental research with the goal of applying engineering principles to reduce adverse effects of solid, liquid, and gaseous discharges on the land, fresh and ocean waters, and air that result from human activity and impair the value of those resources. This program also supports research on innovative biological, chemical, and physical processes used alone or as components of engineered systems to restore the usefulness of polluted land, water, and air resources. The program emphasizes engineering principles underlying pollution avoidance as well as pollution treatment and reparation. Improved sensors, innovative production processes, waste reduction and recycling, and industrial ecology are important to this program. Research may be directed toward improving the cost-effectiveness of pollution avoidance as well as developing fresh principles for pollution avoidance technologies. For More Information For further information, write the Division of Bioengineering and Environmental Systems, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 565, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1320, or by Fax, (703) 306-0312; or consult the ENG Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.eng.nsf.gov/. Chemical and Transport Systems The Division of Chemical and Transport Systems (CTS) supports research through the following programs and activities. Chemical Reaction Processes-Supports fundamental and applied research on rates and mechanisms of important classes of catalyzed and uncatalyzed chemical reactions as they relate to the design, production, and application of catalysts, chemical processes, and specialized materials; chemical phenomena occurring at or near solid surfaces and interfaces; electrochemical and photochemical processes of engineering significance or with commercial potential; design and optimization of complex chemical processes; dynamic modeling and control of process systems and individual process units; reactive processing of polymers, ceramics, and thin films; and interactions between chemical reactions and transport processes in reactive systems and the use of this information in the design of complex chemical reactors. Interfacial, Transport, and Separation Processes-Supports research in areas related to interfacial phenomena, mass transport phenomena, separation science, and phase equilibrium thermodynamics. Research in these areas supports various aspects of engineering technology, with the major focus on chemical and material processing and bioprocess engineering. Research conducted in this program also contributes to the division's emphasis on the impact of basic knowledge on physicochemical hazardous waste treatment and avoidance. The program provides support for new theories and approaches that determine the thermodynamic properties of fluids and fluid mixtures in biological and other fluids with complex molecules. Separations research is directed at many areas, with a special emphasis on bioprocessing and all forms of chromatographic, membrane, and special affinity separations. Fluid, Particulate, and Hydraulic Systems-Supports fundamental and applied research on mechanisms and phenomena that govern single and multiphase fluid flow, particle formation and transport, various multiphase processes, nanostructures, and fluid and solid system interaction. Research is sought that contributes to improving the basic understanding, design, predictability, efficiency, and control of existing systems that involve the dynamics of fluids and particulates and the innovative uses of fluids and particulates in materials development, manufacturing, biotechnology, and the environment. Thermal Systems-Supports fundamental research in two major areas: (1) Thermal Transport and Thermal Processing and (2) Combustion and Thermal Plasmas. Projects should seek a basic understanding at the microscopic and macroscopic levels of thermal phenomena underlying the production of energy, synthesis and processing of materials, cooling and heating of equipment, and biological systems and the interaction of industrial processes with the environment. Higher priority goes to those projects that deal with problems on the cutting edge of technology while developing human resources in engineering. For More Information For further information, write the Division of Chemical and Transport Systems, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 525, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1370, or by Fax, (703) 306-0319; or consult the ENG Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.eng.nsf.gov/. Civil and Mechanical Systems The Civil and Mechanical Systems (CMS) Division supports research through the following programs and activities. Mechanical and Structural Systems Dynamic Systems and Control-Supports research on the dynamic behavior and control of machines, processes, structures, and other engineered physical systems. The primary emphasis is on the physical modeling of a variety of dynamic systems to improve the knowledge base for analyzing their performance and aspects of their control. Research topics include nonlinear dynamics theory, control of mechanical systems, acoustics and noise control, and machine dynamics. Current interests focus on innovative real-time, sensor-based control of automated, flexible manufacturing systems. Structures, Geomechanics, and Building Systems-Supports research on progressive analysis, design, construction, maintenance, and operation of safe, long-lived, efficient, environmentally acceptable, and economical civil infrastructure systems and facilities, both above and below ground. Other areas of interest include understanding the science and technology of deteriorating infrastructure; the actions that can be taken to diagnose, repair, remediate, retrofit, and enhance the performance of existing constructed facilities; and incorporate the knowledge gained to improve the performance of newly constructed materials and facilities. Surface Engineering and Tribology-Supports research on the unique characteristics of surface, near-surface, and interface material as these characteristics affect the performance of mechanical components and structures that are subject to tribological conditions, mechanical and thermal stresses, and corrosion or environmental degradation. Also included is innovative research leading to new ways of generating or characterizing surfaces engineered for optimal topography and microstructure, leading in turn to improved tribological materials, lubricants, or coatings for operation under severe conditions. Modeling of tribosystems and the use of signals from tribological events for tribosensing and process control are also supported. Mechanics and Materials-Supports research to develop scientific and engineering foundations for the design, mechanical response, and failure of all types of solids. Theoretical, experimental, and computational investigations of deformation, fatigue, and fracture behavior and accounting for the underlying microstructural state and its origin, transformation, and evolution are emphasized. Current research areas include design and realization of new materials for mechanical performance; physical experiments on micro and macro scales; constitutive modeling for inelastic deformation and failure under multiaxial static and dynamic loadings; and modeling and computer simulation of thermomechanical aspects of materials processing and manufacturing. Hazard Mitigation-Supports the following activities. Earthquake Hazard Mitigation-Conducts engineering and related research activities that are arranged in four categories: (1) siting and geotechnical systems; (2) structural systems; (3) architectural and mechanical systems; and (4) earthquake systems integration. This program is part of the multiagency National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program. Basic science research in earthquake hazard mitigation is supported in the Division of Earth Sciences, located in the Directorate for Geosciences. Natural and Technological Hazards Mitigation-Supports research activities that strengthen the knowledge base of the physical phenomena underlying natural hazards such as floods, droughts, tornadoes, and landslides and the understanding of their interactions with and impact on populations, structures, buildings, and the natural environment. For More Information For further information, write the Division of Civil and Mechanical Systems, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 545, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1360, or by Fax, (703) 306-0291; or consult the ENG Directorate Home Page via the World Wide , http://www.eng.nsf.gov/. Design, Manufacture, and Industrial Innovation The Division of Design, Manufacture, and Industrial Innovation (DMII) supports research through the following programs and activities. Design and Integration Engineering-Supports the creation of new knowledge to develop the fundamental principles of and procedures for engineering design, including theories of design, methodologies for and models of design, and organization and management techniques for the effective use of engineering design systems. Focus is also placed on the development of an overarching theory of manufacturing systems to allow the deterministic design of the informational and communications framework that is required to interface the hardware and software elements of a modern computer-integrated manufacturing system. While the primary objective is to bridge design and manufacturing, efforts are also aimed at integrating all aspects of the manufacturing life cycle. Manufacturing Processes and Equipment-Supports the development of new knowledge to improve the reliability, efficiency, and productivity of existing manufacturing processes and equipment as well as the innovation of new manufacturing processes and equipment. This will enable the manufacturing of a broad range of products from a wide range of materials including metals, polymers, ceramics, composites, and specially engineered materials. The program aims to understand the fundamental behavior of materials and machines during processing and to control the manufacturing process during the production of actual parts as opposed to researching the processing characteristics of materials for their own sake. Operations Research and Production Systems-Supports research leading to the development of improved analytical and computational techniques for modeling, analysis, design, optimization, and operation of natural and man-made systems. Although research funded is oriented toward basic methodologies, it should also be strongly motivated by relevant problems in engineering. The Production Systems Program encourages research driven by real and relevant industrial problems in all aspects of production. Topics of interest include operational issues such as cost and performance analysis, inventory control, planning and scheduling, reliability, quality, material handling, logistics, distribution, and man and machine integration. Researchers in Operations Research and Production Systems must recognize the interdependency and intersection between these two areas and not attempt to create a separation between them. Management of Technological Innovation-Supports research that can motivate new concepts, theories, models, and tools to elucidate the innovation process and provide sound guidance for integrating technology strategy with business strategy. The program seeks to strengthen collaboration among researchers and practitioners who are involved in the management of technological innovation and to integrate research with educational innovations in engineering and business curricula. This program is a partnership between the Directorate for Engineering and the Directorate for Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)-Offers opportunity and incentive for creative engineering-, science-, education-, and technology-related small businesses to conduct innovative, high-risk research on important scientific and technical problems, work that could have significant potential for commercialization and public benefit if the research is successful. This is a three-phase program that offers incentives for converting research done in Phases I and II to commercial application in Phase III, with the final effort funded by private capital. Industry/University Liaison Program-Consists of the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program and the Grant Opportunities for Academic Liaison with Industry (GOALI) Initiative. STTR is a federal program that links entrepreneurs to the academic research community. It encourages commercialization of government-funded research by the private sector, reinforcing the efforts of the SBIR Program. STTR proposals must have small business principal investigators, but up to 60 percent of STTR funding may support university subcontracts to assist in the commercialization of research products by the small business firm. GOALI provides opportunities through a series of mechanisms for direct linkages between academic researchers and industry. For More Information Annual solicitations are made by the SBIR and STTR Programs and are widely publicized by the Small Business Administration. They are also announced in the Commerce Business Daily and sent to those on NSF's small business mailing list. Solicitations list specific deadlines for proposals. To request the latest SBIR solicitation, write the Program Manager, Small Business Innovation Research, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 590, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1391, or by Fax, (703) 306-0337; or consult the ENG Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.eng.nsf.gov/. For further information on any of the programs in the DMII Division, write the Division of Design, Manufacture, and Industrial Innovation, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 550, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1330, or by Fax, (703) 306-0298; or consult the ENG Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.eng.nsf.gov/. Electrical and Communications Systems The Electrical and Communications Systems (ECS) Division supports research through the following programs and activities. Physical Foundations of Enabling Technologies-Enables creative research and education endeavors that generate new knowledge, contribute to the underlying physical structure of key enabling technologies in electrical engineering and related disciplines, and yield engineering graduates with the diverse set of skills needed for productive careers. Research areas such as microelectronics, photonics, lasers and optics, plasmas, electromagnetics, nanotechnology, micromachining, and microelectromechanical sensors and systems are expected to spur continued scientific and technological advances in areas important to the Nation's economic vitality. The program invites proposals for research that can lead to advances in performance through component, device and materials optimization, design, modeling, and simulation tool development, fabrication and processing advances, and manufacturing effectiveness or related environmental issues. Support is also given for research that will explore new engineering concepts and scientific phenomena; identify emerging technologies that have the potential for substantial applications impact; and push the frontiers on applications of these enabling technologies in science and engineering. Knowledge Modeling and Computational Intelligence-Supports creative research and education activities in analytical, knowledge-based, and computational methods for modeling, optimization, and control of engineering systems, and to yield engineering graduates with the diverse set of skills needed for productive careers. Emphasis is on development of basic methodologies, tools, and designs that are motivated by a wide variety of fundamental systems issues, including nonlinearity, scaleability, complexity, and uncertainty. The program supports leading-edge research on learning and intelligent systems, neural networks, nonlinear and hybrid control, and advanced computational methods in distributed problem-solving and decision-making environments. These directions impact important industry sectors including manufacturing and production systems, electronics, electric power, and transportation. Rapid technological advances and paradigm shifts in many systems areas (i.e., those occurring in modern, interconnected power networks with environmental concerns and deregulation in their technical, social, and economic manifestations), are creating operational complexities that require innovative research ideas to expand the envelope of understanding. Integrative Systems-Stimulates innovative systems-oriented research activities and collaborative research environments to promote the infusion of new knowledge generated by the two programs cited above (Physical Foundations of Enabling Technologies and Knowledge Modeling and Computational Intelligence) into other areas of engineering and science. The goal is to produce engineering graduates with the diverse set of skills needed for productive careers. The promise of such research may be expected to spur significant scientific, technological, and educational advances in communications, computing, information, learning, sensing and instrumentation, healthcare and life sciences, transportation, electric power, manufacturing, and other important and emerging areas. Of particular interest are visionary, systems-oriented research activities with significant intellectual creativity invested in the systems concept, that promise clear technological and societal benefits. Small group activities are particularly encouraged, in order to capture the breadth of expertise often necessary in systems-oriented research and education endeavors. To foster closer cooperation between academic researchers, their students, and industry researchers, use of the GOALI Program is also encouraged. Resources and Infrastructure-In partnership with other NSF directorates and government agencies, the ECS Division provides nationwide research and education resources that promise to have significant impact in the programmatic areas listed above, as well as in other areas of engineering and science. These include the National Nanofabrication Users Network, National Center for Computational Electronics, Multi-User MEMS Processes, US-Japan Joint Optoelectronics Project, MOS Implementation Services, and others. In addition, the NSF Engineering Research Centers and Industry/University Cooperative Research Centers have impact in many areas relevant to the ECS community. Researchers and educators are encouraged to make linkages with these centers to fully utilize the research and education infrastructure developed within them. ECS also seeks to enhance the academic infrastructure through special supplementary and focused grant programs, including Research Experiences for Undergraduates, Research and Education Experiences for Teachers, Faculty Early Career Development, Combined Research-Curriculum Development, Major Research Instrumentation, Grant Opportunities for Academic Liaison with Industry, international collaborations, and others. The ECS community is encouraged to take advantage of these resources in their associated academic endeavors. The ECS Division is committed to increasing the participation of women, minorities, and disabled individuals in all of its programs. Proposals are sought that employ innovative outreach activities to increase the participation of these individuals in the ECS community. For More Information For further information, write the Division of Electrical and Communications Systems, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 675, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1339, or by Fax, (703) 306-0305; or consult the ENG Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.eng.nsf.gov/. Engineering Education and Centers The Engineering Education and Centers (EEC) Division supports research through the following programs and activities. Engineering Research Centers (ERCs)-Provide an integrated environment for academe and industry to focus on next-generation advances in complex engineered systems, with synergy among engineering, science, and industrial practice. ERCs integrate research with education at both the graduate and undergraduate levels, producing curriculum innovations derived from the systems focus of the ERC's strategic research goals. ERCs aim to build trusted partnerships with industry, develop shared infrastructure, and enable the capacity of engineering and science graduates to contribute to the U.S. competitive edge. They provide a systems perspective for long-term engineering research and education enabling fresh technologies, productive engineering processes, and innovative products and services. Industry/University Cooperative Research Centers (I/UCRCs)-Encourage highly leveraged industry/university cooperation by focusing on fundamental research recommended by Industrial Advisory Boards. Each center is established to conduct research that is of interest to both industry and the university, with a provision that industry must provide major support to the center at all times. State/Industry University Cooperative Research Centers (S/IUCRCs)-These centers are an extension of the I/UCRC model, focusing more actively on State or regional local economic development, and are initiated at the State level with matching State and industrial support. Active means of technology transfer are employed, which may include experimentation with testbeds, hands-on teaching of new concepts to upgrade small business, etc. These centers also may extend their work to include proprietary projects with the support of industry and the State. Engineering Education Coalitions-Stimulate bold, innovative, and comprehensive models for systemic reform of undergraduate engineering education and increase the retention of students, especially women, underrepresented minorities, and persons with disabilities. The Engineering Education Coalitions share the following common program-level goals: (1) to design and implement comprehensive, systemic models for structural reform of undergraduate engineering education; (2) to provide tested alternative curricula and new instructional delivery systems to accomplish this reform; (3) to create significant intellectual exchange and resource linkages among engineering baccalaureate-producing and precollege institutions; and (4) to increase the successful participation of women, underrepresented minorities, and persons with disabilities in engineering education. Future program emphasis will be on evaluation, dissemination, and institutionalization of educational innovations developed at the coalitions. Engineering Center Linkages with Engineering Technology Programs, Community Colleges, and Technical Institutes-Offer support in a pilot effort to a limited number of students from engineering technology departments, community colleges, and technical institutes to participate in summer research activities at research centers. Combined Research-Curriculum Development-Supports the development of upper-level undergraduate and graduate engineering curricula based on newly created fundamental engineering knowledge. This is a joint program between the Directorates for Engineering and Computer and Information Science and Engineering. Engineering Education Scholars Workshops-Provide support for intensive short-term orientation for new and prospective engineering faculty members. The workshops aim to convey the concept that the scholarship of integrating and imparting knowledge goes hand in hand with the scholarship of creating it. Workshop attendees learn from successful scholars and practitioners in such areas as learning theories, course and curriculum design, test construction and evaluation, multimedia technologies, student mentoring, diversity, and leadership. Support to Predominantly Undergraduate Institutions-Provides support through regular research programs and under two special activities: Research in Undergraduate Institutions and Research Opportunity Awards for Small College Faculty. The goal of these activities is to increase support to institutions where the primary emphasis is on undergraduate education and where research participation is a means to prepare students for graduate study and research careers. Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Awards-Support proposals that seek to attract talented students into academic research careers in engineering. Proposals are in two major categories: REU Sites and REU Supplements. Site awards are institutional grants designed to initiate and conduct undergraduate research participation projects for a number of students appropriate to the discipline and setting. Supplements are made to ongoing NSF research grants to provide research experience on these grants for a small number of undergraduates. Research Planning Grants and Career Advancement Awards for Minority Engineers-Offer Research Planning Grants, one-time limited awards made to minority engineers for preliminary studies and other activities to facilitate the development of more competitive NSF research proposals. Career Advancement Awards for Minority Engineers expand opportunities for minority researchers to advance their careers. They are particularly appropriate for independent investigators whose careers are still evolving or for experienced researchers who are changing research direction or who have had significant research interruption. Research Planning Grants and Career Advancement Awards for Women Engineers-Enable women engineers who have not had prior independent federal research support to develop competitive research proposals. Career Advancement Awards provide opportunities for women engineers who are experienced researchers to undertake 1-year enhancement projects to increase their capabilities and productivity. Supplemental Funding for Support of Women, Minority, and Physically Disabled Engineering Research Assistants-Provides support for supplemental funding for investigators who wish to include women, underrepresented minorities, and physically disabled undergraduate or high school students as research assistants on their projects. Supplemental funding of up to $5,000, including indirect costs, may be requested for each student to be added to the project. Funds provided by this program are limited to two students per grant. Up to 10 percent of this amount may be used for supplies and services. The support may be used for a summer, a quarter, or an academic year. Additional funds in excess of $5,000 may be requested, if necessary, to provide special equipment, modify equipment, or provide other services required specifically for participation of persons with physical disabilities. The equipment must be specifically related to the research work, such as prosthetic devices to manipulate a specific piece of equipment, and not for general assistance such as wheelchairs or ramps. Program announcements are available for each of the programs above. For deadlines and target dates, refer to the NSF Bulletin, a monthly publication produced by the Office of Legislative and Public Affairs, or consult the ENG Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.eng.nsf.gov/. For More Information For further information, write the Division of Engineering Education and Centers, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 585, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1380, or by Fax, (703) 306-0326; or consult the ENG Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.eng.nsf.gov/. Chapter 5 GEOSCIENCES Research in the Directorate for Geosciences (GEO) seeks to advance the state of knowledge about the Earth, including its atmosphere, continents, oceans, interior, and Sun, and the processes that modify them and link them together. The following are the general objectives of this research. To advance the knowledge of the Earth's upper and lower atmosphere and space environment, including solar influences, general circulation and the physical bases of climate, and the smaller scale, shorter term phenomena that describe weather processes. To provide improved knowledge on the forces that have governed the evolution of the Earth, from its earliest state to its present biological, chemical, geological, and physical structure and that currently control the processes, the understanding of which provides the scientific and technical foundation for the wise use of the Earth's resources, as well as strategies for the mitigation of the adverse effects of natural hazards. To expand our knowledge of the physical, chemical, geological, and biological processes in the ocean and at its boundaries, with the atmosphere, the shoreline, the seafloor, and the Earth's crust beneath and to develop technology to achieve these goals. To facilitate research and educational activities that lead to the use of geosciences in addressing national needs, including support for research in priority areas such as environment and global change, high performance computing and communications, advanced materials and processing, and biotechnology. Education and Outreach Activities In addition to the discipline-specific education and outreach activities supported by the three GEO divisions, the directorate participates in the multiagency Global Learning to Benefit the Earth (GLOBE) Program. The GLOBE Program is a developing international effort that links scientists and schoolchildren through a global information network, and is designed to promote general science literacy related to environmental and global change issues. For More Information For further information on GLOBE, contact Dr. Peter Wilkniss in the GEO Directorate by phone, (703) 306-0892, or by e-mail, pwilkniss@nsf.gov; or consult the GEO Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.geo.nsf.gov/. In the EHR Directorate, contact Dr. Patricia Morse by phone, (703) 306-1614, or by e-mail, mpmorse@nsf.gov. For further information on programs in the EHR Directorate, see Chapter 3 in this Guide or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Atmospheric Sciences Programs in the Division of Atmospheric Sciences (ATM) support research that will increase the knowledge and understanding of the behavior of the Earth's atmosphere and its interactions with the Sun. Specific activities include studies of the physics, chemistry, and dynamics of the Earth's upper and lower atmosphere and its space environment; research on climate processes and variations; and studies to understand the natural global cycles of gases and particles in the Earth's atmosphere. NSF also provides support to operate the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), Upper Atmospheric Facilities (UAF), and Lower Atmospheric Facilities (LAF). NCAR scientists conduct research in atmospheric and related sciences, and work with universities and other organizations to coordinate large-scale atmospheric research projects. In addition, NCAR operates major aircraft, computers, and other observing and sensing facilities for use by universities, private research laboratories, and researchers at NCAR. UAF consists of four large incoherent-scatter radar facilities located along a longitudinal chain from Greenland to Peru. They allow scientists to investigate upper atmospheric problems, both local and global. LAF consists of university-based instrumented research aircraft and a ground-based Doppler radar. These are multiuser national research facilities and offer educational opportunities as well as serve the observational needs of the atmospheric science research community. Finally, NSF provides support for participation by the U.S. scientific community in scientific research endeavors such as the international World Climate Research Program, the International Geosphere/Biosphere Program, the U.S. Weather Research Program, and the National Space Weather Program. Atmospheric Sciences Project Support The purpose of this support is to continue to build a fundamental knowledge base about the Earth's atmosphere as well as other planets and the Sun. Specific objectives are to develop a scientific basis for understanding the dynamic and physical behavior of climate and weather on all spatial and temporal scales and the natural global chemical cycles of gases and particles in the Earth's atmosphere; to improve our understanding of the composition and energetics, and in particular, the dynamics of the coupled upper atmospheric system; and to improve our knowledge of the Sun as it relates to the Earth's upper atmosphere and space environment. Areas of Research Aeronomy-Supports research on upper and middle atmosphere phenomena of ionization, recombination, chemical reaction, photoemission, and transport; the transport of energy, momentum, and mass in the mesosphere-thermosphere-ionosphere system including the processes involved, and the coupling of this global system to the stratosphere below and magnetosphere above; and the plasma physics of phenomena manifested in the coupled ionosphere-magnetosphere system including the effects of high-power radio wave modification. Atmospheric Chemistry-Supports research to measure and model the concentration and distribution of gases and aerosols in the lower and middle atmosphere. Also supports research on the chemical reactions among atmospheric species; the sources and sinks of important trace gases and aerosols; the aqueous-phase atmospheric chemistry; the transport of gases and aerosols throughout the atmosphere; and the improved methods for measuring the concentrations of trace species and their fluxes into and out of the atmosphere. Climate Dynamics-Supports research on the processes that govern climate and the causes of climate variability and change; the assembly and analysis of modern climatic data; and the development and use of climate models to diagnose and simulate climate and its variations. Large-Scale Dynamic Meteorology-Supports basic research to improve the understanding and prediction of atmospheric motion, from synoptic to planetary scales. Research topics include the general circulation, synoptic-scale weather phenomena, atmospheric predictability, and improved parameterization of physical processes and numerical methods for use in large-scale models. Magnetospheric Physics-Supports research on the magnetized plasma envelope of the outer atmosphere including energization by solar wind; the origin of geomagnetic storms and substorms; the population by solar and ionospheric sources; the origin of electric fields; the coupling among the magnetosphere, ionosphere, and atmosphere; and the waves and instabilities in the natural plasma. Also supported are ground-based observational programs at high latitudes. Theoretical research programs may include numerical simulations using nonlinear, three-dimensional plasma physics models. The analysis of data from all sources whether ground-based or from spacecraft, is also supported. Mesoscale Dynamic Meteorology-Supports research on all aspects of mesoscale meteorological phenomena including studies of the morphological, thermodynamic, and kinematic structure of mesoscale systems; the development of mesoscale systems and precipitation processes; and the energy transfer between scales. Paleoclimate-Supports the retrieval, analysis, and interpretation of high quality paleoclimate data sets, and the development of numerical models of the Earth's paleoclimate system. Research is designed to establish a history of the Earth's climate and to understand the processes that govern natural climate variability. Physical Meteorology-Supports research on the physics of the atmosphere, with a special emphasis on cloud physics; atmospheric electricity; radiation; boundary layer and turbulence; and the initiation, growth, and propagation of gravity waves. The program also sponsors the development of new techniques and devices for atmospheric measurements. Solar-Terrestrial-Supports research on the processes by which energy in diverse forms is generated by the Sun, transported to the Earth, and ultimately deposited in the terrestrial environment. Major topics include helioseismology, the solar dynamo, the activity cycle, the magnetic flux emergence, solar flares and activity, coronal mass ejections, solar wind heating, interactions with cosmic rays, and solar wind/magnetosphere boundary problems. Studies on terrestrial influences include solar spectral irradiance changes, solar "constant" changes and climatic impacts, C14 and Sun/climate connections, and solar activity and its effects on the terrestrial environment on various time scales. Eligibility Proposals may be submitted by academic institutions, nonacademic and private research organizations, nonprofit and profit-making research organizations, and individuals. Occasionally NSF will sponsor efforts by other government agencies, particularly for field programs. Target Dates Proposals may be submitted at any time during the year for all programs except those involving the allocation of observational and computing facilities. For science projects that plan to use lower atmospheric observing facilities and/or large amounts of computing resources (200 General Accounting Units or greater), a facilities request is also required. Proposals should be submitted to the appropriate NSF program and should follow the guidelines printed in the Grant Proposal Guide (GPG) (NSF 95-27). Facility requests should be sent to the manager of the facility or facilities. Procedures for requesting a facility are established by the providing institution. The target dates for science proposals related to observational facilities are December 15 and June 15. It is important for institutions submitting a request for facility support to seek advice from the Lower Atmospheric Facilities manager at NSF. For questions on computing proposals, contact the director of the Scientific Computing Division at NCAR. Target dates for submission of facility requests are June 15 and December 15. However, for observational facility requests that will require more than $500,000 in deployment costs, a preproposal must be submitted to NSF 4 months prior to the submission date for standard facility requests. Computing requests have target dates of August 9 and January 5. For More Information For further information, write the Division of Atmospheric Sciences, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 775, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1520; or consult the GEO Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.geo.nsf.gov/. National Center for Atmospheric Research The National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), which is funded by the NSF, is a focal point for research in the field of atmospheric sciences. NCAR is located in Boulder, Colorado, and has about 750 scientists and support personnel. NCAR is managed under a cooperative agreement between the Foundation and the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR), a nonprofit consortium of 61 North American universities with graduate programs in atmospheric sciences. In addition to NCAR scientific personnel, the facilities at NCAR are available to university and other scientists, and serve the entire atmospheric sciences research community and part of the ocean sciences community. These facilities include a computing and data center that provides supercomputer resources and services for the development and production of large models, and for archiving, manipulating, and visualizing large data sets. Information on other NCAR facilities is included in the "Lower Atmospheric Facilities" section (elsewhere in this chapter). NCAR scientists conduct research in the areas of atmospheric and ocean sciences and on solar astronomy and are involved with large collaborative research programs with many institutions. Criteria for the selection of research programs include scientific merit, the potential for progress, the appropriateness for a national center, the responsiveness to and fit with university activities, and the relevance to society's needs. NCAR research programs focus on the following areas: large-scale atmospheric and ocean dynamics that contribute to an understanding of the past and present climate processes and global change, including interactions with other environmental systems; global and regional atmospheric chemistry including geochemical and biogeochemical cycles; the variable nature of the Sun and the physics of the corona; the physics of clouds, thunderstorms, precipitation formation, and the interactions and effects on larger scale weather; and the examination of human society's impact on and response to global environmental change. In addition, NCAR provides fellowships for visiting scientists to conduct research and to interact with NCAR scientists. Eligibility Support for facilities and visiting scientists is provided on a competitive basis to qualified scientists according to scientific merit, the availabilitie of facility time, and the level of resources. For More Information For further information, write the Director, National Center for Atmospheric Research, P.O. Box 3000, Boulder, Colorado 80307. Upper Atmospheric Facilities NSF supports 4 large incoherent-scatter radar and optical facilities located along a longitudinal chain from Greenland to Peru. In response to a need for more understanding of global-scale thermospheric and ionospheric problems, these facilities have been upgraded and realigned into a chain extending from the polar cap to the magnetic equator. The major goal of the Upper Atmospheric Facilities (UAF) Program is to promote basic research on the structure and dynamics of the Earth's upper atmosphere. Research is supported through the following activities. Sondrestrom Radar Facility-Is located in Sondre Stromfjord, Greenland, and is operated by SRI International under an NSF cooperative agreement. It allows observations of the polar cap, the cusp (a region of easy access for solar wind energy), and the northern part of the auroral oval. Millstone Hill Radar-Is located near Boston, Massachusetts, and is operated by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) under an NSF cooperative agreement. It is located south of the auroral oval in a region where significant mid-latitude phenomena are observed. Observations of high-altitude regions from almost directly above the radar in Sondre Stromfjord to almost directly above the next radar in the chain located at Arecibo, Puerto Rico, can be made there. Arecibo Observatory-Is located in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, and is operated under contract to NSF by Cornell University's National Astronomy and Ionosphere Center (NAIC). At Arecibo's latitude, scientists have obtained evidence of particle precipitation in the atmosphere, composition changes in the atmosphere after magnetic storms, gravity waves propagating from the auroral region, and the penetration of magnetospheric electric fields. The UAF Program also supports the high-frequency heating facility, located near the observatory. This facility uses the ionosphere as a gigantic plasma physics laboratory, artificially injecting energy into the ionospheric medium to study plasma wave processes. Jicamarca Radio Observatory-Is located at the magnetic equator in Jicamarca, Peru, and is owned by the Instituto Geofisico de Peru. Through a cooperative agreement with Cornell University, NSF acts as the principal sponsor of the facility, which provides a subcontract to the institute. Eligibility UAF facilities are available on a competitive basis to all qualified scientists. Use is based on the scientific merit of the proposed research, the capabilities of the radars to carry out the proposed observations, and whether the facility is available during the requested time period. For More Information For further information, write the following: -Director, Sondrestrom Radar Facility, Radio Physics Laboratory, SRI International, Menlo Park, California 94025; -Director, Millstone Hill Radar, MIT, Haystack Observatory, Westford, Massachusetts 01886; -Director, NAIC for Arecibo Observatory, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853; or -Jicamarca Radio Observatory Project, Department of Electrical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853. Lower Atmospheric Facilities Through NCAR and several universities, NSF supports multiuser national research facilities that offer educational opportunities, and serve the observational needs of the entire atmospheric science research community. Specifically, NSF's Lower Atmospheric Facilities (LAF) support the following. Aircraft-Located at NCAR, a four-engine Lockheed Electra, a four-engine Lockheed EC-130Q Hercules, and a General Dynamics WB-57F; at the University of Wyoming, a Beech King Air; and at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, an armored T-28. These aircraft can be equipped with sensors to measure meteorological and chemical state parameters, including temperature, pressure, dewpoint, winds, and ozone. In addition, a variety of other instruments can be selected for a particular project, or in many cases, users may supply their own specialized instrumentation. Radar-NCAR is equipped with (1) an airborne X-band-a dual-beam, rapid conical-scanning multiple-frequency radar that is mounted on NCAR's Electra aircraft; and (2) a transportable multiparameter S/X-band radar that can transmit horizontal and vertical polarization on a pulse-to-pulse basis to provide copolar (CDR and Phi-dp) data at 10 cm. Colorado State University is equipped with a transportable CSU S-band radar that provides two complete transmit and receive channels to produce simultaneous measurements of horizontal and vertical polarization. (NCAR's multiparameter radar also operates at dual wavelengths and can provide depolarization data at 3 cm.) All of these are available for atmospheric research, and all are Dopplerized and can provide measurements of equivalent radar reflectivity factor, mean radial velocity, and spectrum width. Other Facilities-At NCAR's Atmosphere-Surface Turbulent Exchange Research Facility, research focuses on the structure of the atmosphere's surface layer and provides measurements from surface fluxes of trace chemical species, water vapor, sensible heat, and momentum. Several systems are available from NCAR that can measure the vertical profile of temperature, moisture, pressure, and winds in the troposphere. These include a surface balloon-borne Cross-chain Loran Atmospheric Sounding System (CLASS); a dropwindsonde system that may be launched from most of the LAF aircraft; and an Integrated Sounding System (ISS). The ISS combines a complete surface meteorological observing station with a Loran- or Omega-tracked balloon system and a radar profiler at 915 megahertz for high-resolution winds in the lower troposphere. This is supplemented with a Radio-Acoustic Sounding System (RASS) for virtual temperature and moisture profiles in the lower 1 to 3 kilometers. The ISS sensors are connected to an integrated data storage, display, and transmission system that readily accepts additional complementary sensors. Eligibility The Lower Atmospheric Facilities are available on a competitive basis to all qualified scientists. Use is based on the scientific merit of the proposed research, the capabilities of the facilities to carry out the proposed observations, and whether the facility is available during the requested time period. For More Information For further information, write the following: -Division Director, Atmospheric Technology Division, NCAR, P.O. Box 3000, Boulder, Colorado 80307-3000; -Facility Manager, Wyoming King Air, Department of Atmospheric Science, P.O. Box 3038, University Station, Laramie, Wyoming 82071; -Facility Manager, T-28, Institute of Atmospheric Sciences, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701; or -Facility Manager, CSU-CHILL Radar, Department of Atmospheric Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523. Earth Sciences The Division of Earth Sciences (EAR) supports the following programs, which are described more fully in the publication Earth Sciences Research at the National Science Foundation (NSF 96-50). Earth Sciences Project Support These programs support proposals for research geared toward improving the understanding of the structure, composition, and evolution of the Earth and the processes that govern the formation and behavior of the Earth's materials. The results of this research will create a better understanding of the Earth's changing environments, and the natural distribution of its mineral, water, and energy resources and provide methods for predicting and mitigating the effects of geologic hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods, and landslides. Programs offering research support are grouped under two headings: Core Research Support and Special Emphasis Areas. Core Research Support The Foundation supports the best research proposals received in any area of geology, geophysics, geochemistry, paleobiology, and hydrology, including interdisciplinary or multidisciplinary proposals that may involve one or more of these disciplines. Especially welcome are proposals for research in newly emerging areas of science that may not fit easily into one of these categories. For convenience in proposal evaluation, proposals received are assigned to one of the six individual programs listed below or to the Continental Dynamics or Instrumentation and Facilities Programs, if appropriate. The titles of these programs indicate in general terms, the subject matter covered by each, although they should be considered very broad and not necessarily restricted to their specified discipline of science. The programs in the Core Research Support include: -Geology and Paleontology, (703) 306-1551; -Tectonics, (703) 306-1552; -Petrology and Geochemistry, (703) 306-1554; -Geophysics, (703) 306-1556; -Hydrologic Sciences, (703) 306-1549; and -Education and Human Resources, (703) 306-1557. Special Emphasis Areas Within the Division of Earth Sciences, certain research areas may be selected for special emphasis, or on the basis of special scientific opportunities. Frequently these are related to areas of national priority such as the Environment and Global Change Research Program and the National Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program. The following is a list of current Special Emphasis Areas and the publication number for the corresponding program announcement. These announcements contain further information such as special evaluation criteria beyond the general Foundation requirements, and submission deadlines for consideration in these areas. -Earth System History (NSF 95-45); -Water and Energy: Atmospheric, Vegetative, and Earth Interactions (NSF 95-45); -Environmental Geochemistry and Biogeochemistry (NSF 96-2); -Active Tectonics (NSF 95-137); -Cooperative Studies of the Earth's Deep Interior (CSEDI) (NSF 95-155); and -Earth Sciences Postdoctoral Research Fellowships (NSF 93-93). Eligibility Proposals will be accepted from colleges, universities, and other institutions in the United States with formal research programs in the earth sciences. Proposals may involve individual scientists, or be a collaborative effort of associated researchers working on coordinated projects. The annual deadlines for receipt of proposals in the disciplinary Core Programs are June 1 and December 1. Deadlines for Special Emphasis Areas are listed in their individual announcements. For More Information For further information, write the Division of Earth Sciences, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 785, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1550; or consult the GEO Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.geo.nsf.gov/. Continental Dynamics-Supports multidisciplinary research that will result in a better understanding of the processes that govern the origin, structure, composition, and dynamical evolution of the continents and continental building blocks. This program is especially geared toward projects whose scope and complexity require a cooperative or multiinstitutional approach and multiyear planning and execution. It is intended that the program fund only relatively large projects that do not fit easily within Earth Sciences Project Support, and that offer broad support for major sections of the earth sciences community. The program also funds research as part of the interagency and International Continental Scientific Drilling and Exploration Program. Eligibility Proposals may be submitted by academic institutions and nonprofit research organizations. Deadlines Preliminary proposals are due December 1; formal proposals are due June 1. For More Information For further information, write the Division of Earth Sciences, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 785, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1559; or consult the GEO Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.geo.nsf.gov/. Instrumentation and Facilities-Supports the acquisition or upgrade of equipment required for research; the development of new instrumentation and techniques that extend current research capabilities in the earth sciences; the operation of multiuser regional or national facilities that provide access to complex and expensive instrument systems for a significant segment of the earth sciences research community; and the funding of research technicians. Eligibility Proposals may be submitted by academic institutions and nonprofit research organizations. Deadlines Proposals to the Instrumentation and Facilities Program may be submitted at any time throughout the year. For More Information For further information, write the Division of Earth Sciences, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 785, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1558; or consult the GEO Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.geo.nsf.gov/. Ocean Sciences The Division of Ocean Sciences (OCE) supports research that will create a better understanding of the ocean and ocean basins. Research programs support individual scientists, small groups of cooperating scientists, and some large coordinated projects. OCE also supports efforts to develop, acquire, and operate instruments and facilities needed to carry out these research programs. Ocean Sciences Research Support is provided for research in the areas of biological, geological, physical, and chemical processes in the ocean and ocean technology that will advance our knowledge in the ocean sciences, and apply this knowledge toward national needs. Target Dates The target dates for unsolicited proposals are February 15 and August 15; however, there are frequent announcements of opportunities to participate in global change and other coordinated research programs. Proposals requiring the use of the University-National Oceanographic Laboratory System (UNOLS) ships (see "Oceanographic Centers and Facilities" section below) must be submitted by the February 15 target date, for use during the next calendar year, so that timely decisions can be made on ship support and schedules. Areas of Research Biological Oceanography-Supports research on ocean productivity; distribution, abundance, physiology, and life history of pelagic, coastal, and deep-sea marine organisms and their interactions with environments; structures of pelagic and benthic food chains; primary and secondary production; interactions between deep-sea biological processes and the ocean ecosystem; specialization of deep-sea organisms; ecology of the Great Lakes and factors regulating productivity; and marine biotechnology. Chemical Oceanography-Supports research on physical and chemical properties of seawater, including kinetic and thermodynamic equilibria of chemical species and compounds in seawater; fluxes between seafloor sediments, their interstitial waters, and overlying seawater; fates of materials deposited on the seafloor; alterations and interactions of material moving through the ocean; interactions and interdependencies between chemical processes and marine organisms; air/sea exchanges of man-made and naturally mobilized chemicals; and chemical properties of the ocean surface. Marine Geology and Geophysics-Supports research on the structure of continental margins, oceanic rise systems, and deep-sea sedimentary basins; evolution of ocean basins; processes controlling exchanges of heat and chemical elements between seawater and oceanic rocks; tectonic and volcanic activity at mid-ocean ridges; chemical and mineralogic variations in marine sediments; deposition, erosion, and distribution of marine sediments; geologic and oceanographic processes controlling sedimentary systems; past oceanic circulation patterns and climates; evolution of microfossil groups; paleoenvironmental controls on fossil groups and sediment types; and interactions of continental and oceanic geologic processes. Physical Oceanography-Supports research on the description, analysis, and modeling of oceanic circulation and transport; effects of circulation on energy and momentum transport; physical circulation processes, eddy generation, and turbulent mixing on continental shelves; mixing processes and circulation in estuaries; wind-generated tides and surface and internal waves; small-scale transport processes such as diffusion, conduction, and convection, and three-dimensional turbulence; and physical properties of seawater and circulation and mixing processes in lakes. Ocean Technology and Interdisciplinary Coordination-Supports a wide range of multidisciplinary activities that broadly seek to develop, transfer, or apply instrumentation and technologies that will benefit research programs supported by NSF and enhance the conduct of basic ocean sciences research. Instrumentation and technology projects supported by this program must be broadly usable and be of benefit to more than a particular research project. The scope of projects varies from short-term feasibility studies, to development, construction, and at-sea testing of a prototype to demonstrate that useful and applicable data are obtained. If ocean research is to be undertaken, joint consideration with the relevant research program may be undertaken for the instrument development phase of the project. In addition, the interdisciplinary coordination program area supports a limited number of research approaches that cross the four basic ocean science subdisciplines (physics, chemistry, biology, and geology and geophysics). Oceanographic Centers and Facilities The NSF supports construction, conversion, acquisition, and operation of major shared-use oceanographic facilities. The University-National Oceanographic Laboratory System (UNOLS) schedules these facilities and expeditionary programs. This program supports expensive facilities that are necessary for NSF-funded research and training of oceanographers. Examples of these facilities are ships, submersibles, large shipboard equipment, and shared-use instruments to collect and analyze data. The Foundation encourages local contributions from non-federal funds; however, there is no fixed requirement for institutional contributions. Eligibility Support for major oceanographic facilities is concentrated at institutions that have substantial research programs in oceanography in addition to supporting the research projects of other institutions. Before submitting a proposal for support under this program, institutions should seek advice from the Oceanographic Centers and Facilities Section. Specific instructions on how to submit proposals for ship operations, technicians, shipboard equipment, and oceanographic instrumentation can be found in the publication Oceanographic Centers and Facilities Section (NSF 94-124). Deadlines and Target Dates Proposals for ship operations and technicians are due October 1 of each year. Proposals for shipboard equipment and oceanographic instrumentation are due September 1 of each year. Proposals requesting support for other activities may be submitted at any time. For More Information For further information, write the Oceanographic Centers and Facilities Section, Division of Ocean Sciences, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 725, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1576; or consult the GEO Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.geo.nsf.gov/. Ocean Drilling Program The Ocean Drilling Program (ODP) explores on a global scale, the Earth's crust beneath the ocean in order to learn more about the composition, structure, and history of the submerged portion of the Earth's surface. The drilling process involves logging and collecting geologic samples from the floor of deep ocean basins through rotary coring and hydraulic piston coring. The logs and samples of the cores are available to qualified scientists throughout the world for research projects. ODP Operations The drilling program has taken samples at various sites, including the North Atlantic Ocean, Norwegian Sea, Mediterranean Sea, southern and equatorial Atlantic Ocean, Pacific Ocean off the west coast of South America, Weddell Sea off Antarctica, Indian Ocean, and western and equatorial Pacific Ocean. The general contractor for the overall management and operation of the ODP is Joint Oceanographic Institutions, Inc. (JOI), a consortium of major U.S. oceanographic institutions. The drilling operations are managed by Texas A&M University; logging is managed by the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, located at Columbia University. U.S. Science Support NSF provides funding for the participation and drilling-related research performed by U.S. scientists. Activities include the investigations of potential drilling regions, especially by means of regional geophysical field studies; the feasibility and initial development of downhole instruments and techniques; and the downhole geophysical and geochemical experiments. In addition, NSF will consider proposals for studies that lead to a long-range definition of future drilling objectives. To be considered for support, proposed projects should be clearly relevant to the drilling plans of the international drilling community, and focus on predrilling or drilling-concurrent activities. Postcruise studies should generally be submitted through other appropriate NSF programs in the areas of ocean and earth sciences and polar programs. Additional support for U.S. scientists may be obtained through the JOI U.S. Science Advisory Committee (USSAC). This NSF-sponsored program consists of planning activities such as workshops, to define concepts and develop problem-related drilling programs, including U.S. participation in Joint Oceanographic Institutions for Deep Earth Sampling (JOIDES); and support for U.S. scientists participating on the drill ship, and for necessary follow-up studies related to initial publication of drilling results. In addition, requests for proposals may be issued for other surveys, regional and topical syntheses of existing data, and the development of downhole tools and instrumentation as these tasks are identified. For More Information For further information, write the Ocean Drilling Program, Oceanographic Centers and Facilities Section, Division of Ocean Sciences, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 725, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1581; or consult the GEO Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.geo.nsf.gov/. Proposals for drilling specific sites should be submitted to the JOIDES Planning Committee Chairman, c/o Joint Oceanographic Institutions, Inc., 1755 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Suite 800, Washington, D.C. 20036; to contact by phone call (202) 232-3900. Applications for scientific participation aboard a ship should be submitted to the Manager of Science Operations, Ocean Drilling Program, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843-3469. Appropriate support may be provided by JOI-USSAC. Send requests for data and samples of core material to the Curator, Ocean Drilling Program, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843-3469. Information regarding logs and the logging program may be obtained from the Borehole Research Group, Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, Palisades, New York 10964. Proposals for planning activities and workshops may be submitted to the JOI-USSAC Chairman, c/o Joint Oceanographic Institutions, Inc., 1755 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Suite 800, Washington, D.C. 20036. Chapter 6 MATHEMATICAL AND PHYSICAL SCIENCES Programs in the Mathematical and Physical Sciences (MPS) Directorate are designed with the following goals: to increase the knowledge base in the mathematical and physical sciences; to improve the quality of education in the mathematical and physical sciences in graduate and undergraduate activities; to increase the rate at which advances in the mathematical and physical sciences are translated into advances in science and technology on a broad spectrum and into societal benefits; and to increase the diversity of people and approaches in the mathematical and physical sciences. To help the programs meet these goals, the directorate encourages collaboration with other NSF directorates, other agencies, and industrial organizations. Examples of the types of research supported by the MPS Directorate include standard research projects, ranging from basic to applied, that support the research of individuals and small groups with their associated students, postdoctoral researchers, equipment, etc.; groups and centers that support the research of individuals and teams within a framework of larger scope and scale, including greater expectations for outreach and interaction, shared use of facilities, and development of students and postdoctoral researchers; instrumentation for shared use, instrument development, user facilities, and construction of major research equipment that will provide needed infrastructure for research and education; activities aimed at education in the mathematical and physical sciences that focus on the undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral levels and work in cooperation with programs in the Education and Human Resources Directorate; and workshops, symposia, conferences, and related activities that achieve results and focus on new directions for future work. The operational activities in MPS are organized around divisional and disciplinary lines and include astronomical sciences, chemistry, materials research, mathematical sciences, and physics. MPS also encourages communication among the divisions and across directorate boundaries to ensure effective support of research and education projects in emerging fields that cut across those lines. MPS is an active participant in a number of interagency and intraagency programs that focus on interdisciplinary areas of importance to the national interest. These include advanced materials and processing; biotechnology; environment and global change; high performance computing and communications; advanced manufacturing technologies; civil infrastructure systems; and science, mathematics, engineering, and technology education. Researchers and educators interested in exploring opportunities in these areas should contact the program most closely related to their own interests to learn more about submitting proposals. Grant Opportunities for Academic Liaison with Industry The Grant Opportunities for Academic Liaison with Industry (GOALI) Program is designed to encourage new links between university-based research groups, usually composed of a few graduate students and postdoctoral associates, and private enterprises that use advanced science and technology. These links may be joint or complementary research programs or exchange of personnel. GOALI will provide participants with opportunities to work on industrially relevant problems and to gain experience and insight into what drives scientific and technological development in the commercial sector. Multidisciplinary Activities Established in 1995, the Office of Multidisciplinary Activities (OMA) supports activities that cut across the MPS disciplines or bridge these disciplines with other areas of science from other NSF directorates. OMA works to intensify the directorate's support for multidisciplinary research and human infrastructure and takes advantage of new opportunities. Each year a few areas of emphasis will be targeted for high priority funding consideration. Current examples are optical science and engineering, environmental science and technology, and the GOALI initiative. For More Information For further information, write the Head, Office of Multidisciplinary Activities, Mathematical and Physical Sciences Directorate, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 1005, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1800; or consult the MPS Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov:80/mps/start.htm. Astronomical Sciences The overall objective of the Astronomical Sciences (AST) Division is to increase our knowledge of the universe. Support is given for research aimed at determining the composition, structure, and evolution of planets, stars, and galaxies, including our Sun and the Milky Way. AST supports the development and operation of three National Astronomy Centers. These centers are equipped with radio, optical, infrared, and special telescopes that are made available to the scientific community on a competitive basis. Resident staff at the centers give technical assistance to visiting scientists, conduct studies of their own, and develop advanced instrumentation. The division also supports the Center for Particle Astrophysics, an NSF Science and Technology (S&T) Center. Astronomy Research and Instrumentation The Astronomy and Astrophysics Research Projects Program provides a broad base for support of fundamental research aimed at understanding the states of matter and physical processes in the solar system and our Milky Way galaxy and the origin and evolution of the present universe. Proposals to support searches for extraterrestrial intelligence are not funded in the program. Areas of Research Advanced Technologies and Instrumentation (ATI)-Supports the development and construction of state-of-the-art detectors and instruments for the visible and infrared region of the spectrum; interferometric imaging instrumentation; adaptive optics; and the application of new technology and innovative techniques to astronomy. ATI also includes a Facilities Instrumentation activity to support large facilities instruments at independent optical astronomy observatories. Education, Human Resources, and Special Programs-Coordinates research support in special areas that are astronomy related. Programs include Research Experiences for Undergraduates (Sites and Supplements), Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE), Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Program, Research at Undergraduate Institutions, and programs for women and underrepresented minorities. Electromagnetic Spectrum Management-Coordinates with other government agencies to use electromagnetic spectrum for research and frequency assignments for other telecommunications and electronics systems. Extragalactic Astronomy and Cosmology-Supports theoretical and observational studies of extragalactic objects ranging from nearby galaxies to the most distant quasars and their relevance to galactic evolution and cosmology. Galactic Astronomy-Supports theoretical and observational studies on the structure and evolution of the Milky Way galaxy; the distribution, positions, and motions of stars in the galaxy; the characteristics of star clusters in the galaxy; the interstellar medium; and the properties of atoms and molecular constituents of the interstellar medium. Planetary Astronomy-Supports theoretical and observational studies of the detailed structure and composition of planetary surfaces, interiors, atmospheres, and satellites; the nature of small bodies such as asteroids and comets; and the origin and development of the solar system. Stellar Astronomy and Astrophysics-Supports theoretical and observational studies of the structure and activity of the Sun; the physical properties of all types of stars; all aspects of star formation and stellar evolution; the effects of mass loss, rotation, and magnetic fields; and the properties of atoms and molecules that are relevant to stellar astronomy. Deadlines Proposals for research that is taking place in fiscal year 1997 (after October 1, 1996) had the following deadlines: -Stellar Astronomy and Astrophysics, August 23, 1996; -Extragalactic Astronomy and Cosmology, August 2, 1996; -Galactic Astronomy, September 13, 1996; -Planetary Astronomy, September 13, 1996; and -Advanced Technologies and Instrumentation, August 30, 1996. The deadline date for submission of proposals requesting support in fiscal year 1998 (which begins October 1, 1997) will be announced in the NSF Bulletin, a monthly publication produced by the Office of Legislative and Public Affairs (OLPA). Proposers are urged to contact a program officer prior to submitting a proposal to any of the programs in the AST Division. For More Information For further information, write the Division of Astronomical Sciences, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 1045, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1820; or consult the MPS Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov:80/mps/start.htm. National Astronomy and Ionosphere Center NSF supports the National Astronomy and Ionosphere Center (NAIC), a visitor-oriented national research center whose research efforts focus on radio and radar astronomy and atmospheric sciences. NAIC's headquarters are in Ithaca, New York, where it is operated and managed for NSF by Cornell University. Its principal observing facilities are 19 kilometers south of the city of Arecibo, Puerto Rico. NAIC provides telescope users with a wide range of research and observing instrumentation including receivers, transmitters, movable line feeds, and digital data acquisition and processing equipment. The center has a permanent staff of scientists, engineers, and technicians who are available to help visiting investigators with their observation programs. NAIC's principal astronomical research instrument is a 305-meter fixed spherical radio/radar telescope-the world's largest single radio reflector. Its frequency capabilities range from 50 megahertz to 5 gigahertz. Transmitters include an S-band (2,380-megahertz) radar system for planetary studies and a 430-megahertz radar system for aeronomy studies. A high-power ionospheric heating facility provides researchers with a unique capability to investigate nonlinear plasma phenomena in the ionosphere. A major three-phase upgrade of NAIC's main antenna facility is nearly finished. In the first phase, a large reflecting screen was built around the periphery of the 305-meter reflector to reduce the effect of scattered ground radiation on the observations. The second phase involves the installation of a pair of wide-band aberration-correcting reflectors to replace the line feeds above 250 megahertz. In the final phase, the power of the S-band radar system will be doubled. The upgrade will be completed in 1997. Eligibility NAIC facilities and instrumentation are available on a competitive basis to qualified scientists from all over the world. Telescope time is assigned after judgment of research proposals on the basis of scientific merit, the capability of the instruments to do the work, and the availability of the telescope during the requested time period. For More Information For further information, write the Director, National Astronomy and Ionosphere Center, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853. Gemini 8-Meter Telescopes The Gemini 8-Meter Telescopes Project is an international undertaking that will provide astronomers from the partnership countries-the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Chile, Brazil, and Argentina-with 8-meter telescopes in the Northern hemisphere on Mauna Kea, Hawaii, and in the Southern hemisphere on Cerro Pachon, in Chile. The Mauna Kea telescope will be infrared optimized and have superb image quality. The Chilean telescope will be its near twin. NSF acts as the executive agency for the partnership, and the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy, Inc. (AURA)-a consortium of 20 major universities-is managing the construction of the telescopes. When operational, these telescopes will provide astronomers from the partnership countries with world-class observing facilities. Observing time will be assigned on the basis of scientific merit. Completion is expected in 1998 in Mauna Kea and in 2000 in Chile. National Optical Astronomy Observatories NSF supports the National Optical Astronomy Observatories (NOAO), a national center for research in ground-based optical and infrared astronomy and solar physics. Large optical telescopes, observing instrumentation, and data analysis equipment and the NOAO staff of astronomers, engineers, and various support personnel are available to assist qualified visiting scientists in their use of the facilities. NOAO is operated and managed by AURA, with headquarters located in Tucson, Arizona. NOAO has the following three observatories. Kitt Peak National Observatory (KPNO)-The observing facilities of KPNO are located on Kitt Peak, a 2,089-meter mountain that is 90 kilometers southwest of Tucson, Arizona. The facilities include the 4-meter Mayall Telescope, a 2.1-meter general-purpose reflector, a 92-centimeter coud‚ feed (associated with the 2.1-meter), a 1.3-meter reflector instrumented for the infrared, and the Burrell Schmidt Telescope of Case Western University. A full complement of state-of-the-art spectroscopic, photometric, and imaging instrumentation is available for use on these telescopes. Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory (CTIO)-CTIO provides qualified scientists with telescopes and related facilities for astronomical research in the Southern hemisphere. CTIO has offices, laboratories, and living quarters in the coastal city of La Serena, Chile, located about 482 kilometers north of Santiago, Chile. The observing facilities are located on Cerro Tololo, a 2,194-meter mountain on the western slopes of the Andes, about 64 kilometers inland from La Serena. CTIO operates six telescopes, including a 4-meter that is a near twin to the 4-meter at Kitt Peak. The other telescopes are a 1.5-meter, a 0.91-meter, a 0.61-meter reflector, a Schmidt telescope (on loan from the University of Michigan), and a 1-meter reflector (on loan from Yale). These telescopes are equipped with instruments similar to those at KPNO. National Solar Observatory (NSO)-NSO is devoted to research in the fields of solar physics, solar/terrestrial relationships, and related areas. NSO makes available to qualified scientists the world's largest collection of modern optical solar telescopes and auxiliary instrumentation designed to observe the solar photosphere, chromosphere, and corona. NSO has observing facilities atop Kitt Peak, Arizona (NSO/KP), and Sacramento Peak, New Mexico (NSO/SP). The Kitt Peak facilities consist of the 1.5-meter McMath-Pierce Solar Telescope, the world's largest solar research instrument, and a solar vacuum telescope/magnetograph. The McMath complex is designed primarily for solar observations and is also used for planetary and stellar observations and for laboratory high-resolution spectroscopy. NSO/SP is located in Sunspot, New Mexico, at an elevation of 2,800 meters on a crest of the Sacramento Mountains. The principal instruments are the 0.76-meter aperture Solar Vacuum Tower Telescope, equipped with spectrographs, optical benches, and the Advanced Stokes Polarimeter; and the Evans Solar Facility, equipped with a 40-centimeter aperture coronagraph, spectrographs, and a coronal photometer. Eligibility The NOAO facilities and instrumentation are available on a competitive basis to all qualified U.S. scientists and occasionally to foreign visitors. Telescope time is assigned on the basis of scientific merit, the capability of the instruments to do the work, and the availability of the telescope during the requested time period. For More Information For further information, write the Director, National Optical Astronomy Observatories, P.O. Box 26732, Tucson, Arizona 85726. National Radio Astronomy Observatory NSF supports the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO), which makes radio astronomy facilities available to qualified scientists. The NRAO staff help visiting scientists use the large radio antennas, receivers, and other equipment needed to detect, measure, and identify radio waves from astronomical objects. The headquarters of NRAO are located in Charlottesville, Virginia. Observing sites are located in Green Bank, West Virginia; Kitt Peak near Tucson, Arizona; a site 80 kilometers west of Socorro, New Mexico; and 10 sites in the continental United States and on the islands of Hawaii and St. Croix, on the latter of which individual antennas of the Very-Long-Baseline Array (VLBA) are located. NRAO is supported under the terms of a cooperative agreement between NSF and Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI), the organization responsible for the operation and management of the observatory. Only one telescope is currently operated at the Green Bank site. It is a 43-meter aperture instrument that permits the study of spectral lines at centimeter wave lengths and is an integral part of the Very-Long-Baseline-Interferometer network. This network studies quasars and is involved in the high-resolution mapping of galactic objects based on simultaneous observations by combinations of telescopes over transcontinental and intercontinental distances. Currently under construction at Green Bank is a 100-meter telescope that is expected to be fully operational in 1998, when the 43-meter telescope will be retired. A 12-meter millimeter-wavelength telescope is located on Kitt Peak to take advantage of the high altitude and dry climate necessary for short radio wavelengths. This telescope is capable of both continuum and spectral-line studies at wavelengths from 1 centimeter to as short as 1 millimeter. The Very Large Array (VLA) telescope located west of Socorro, New Mexico, consists of 27 antennas and carries out aperture synthesis observations of faint radio sources. Both continuum and spectral-line observations at wavelengths of 1.3, 2, 6, and 20 centimeters can be made. The VLBA operates on the basis of the same physical principles as the VLA, but because of the much larger distances between antennas, the data are recorded at each site and compared later at Socorro, New Mexico. Because of its larger antenna separation, the VLBA is capable of resolving much smaller details in astronomical sources than the VLA is. Eligibility NRAO makes observing time on each instrument available to all qualified U.S. scientists and occasionally foreign visitors. Telescope time is assigned after judgment of research proposals on the basis of scientific merit, the capability of the instruments to do the work, and the availability of the telescope during the requested time period. For More Information For further information, write the Director, National Radio Astronomy Observatory, Edgemont Road, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903. Mathematical Sciences The Division of Mathematical Sciences (DMS) supports a wide range of projects aimed at developing and exploring the properties and applications of mathematical structures. Most of these projects are those awarded to single investigators or small groups of investigators working with graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. The Mathematical Sciences Infrastructure handles a variety of different activities falling outside this mode. The following activities cut across all disciplinary programs. Cross-Disciplinary Interactions-A number of areas in science and engineering have problems of great mathematical and statistical complexity or obscurity that are creating a demand for mathematical and statistical cooperation. The depth of these problems being raised often exceeds that of the training of the scientists and engineers currently in mathematical and statistical theory. To progress in solving these problems, mathematical scientists themselves must be sought to work in tandem with other scientists. At the same time, it is frequently the case that the problems posed stimulate interesting, new, and deep mathematical and statistical questions that deserve attention. DMS hopes to foster interactions that require the participants to go well beyond their respective areas of expertise, to nurture young talent in the interdisciplinary mode of research, and to involve underrepresented groups whenever possible. The following are some of these exciting research opportunities. -In the area of biosciences, striking advances in biology, computer science, and the mathematical sciences are creating opportunities to collaborate on research work with fields such as molecular biology, neuroscience, and ecosystems and offer challenging computational and analytical problems. Biological sciences interaction may extend significantly into the core areas of mathematics, such as topology, operator algebras, probability, and nonlinear dynamical systems, as well as the more traditional areas of applied mathematics and statistics. -Projects designed to offer research opportunities are being undertaken in the geosciences, geography, and mathematical sciences. These projects involve teams of investigators from two or more of the targeted disciplines and include mathematical sciences, atmospheric sciences including climate dynamics and atmospheric chemistry, earth sciences, geography and regional sciences, and oceanography. -Other opportunities include research in the areas of high performance computing and communications; mathematical and statistical aspects of materials behavior and theoretical continuum mechanics; advanced manufacturing technologies; mathematical sciences related to biotechnology; and mathematical, statistical, and computational aspects of global change research. Research in the area of materials includes interaction of thermal and mechanical effects; phase transition and formation of microstructures and crystals; foundations of nonlinear elasticity and electromagnetic materials; composite materials; and related mathematical questions such as control, optimization, and studies of differential equations arising in these contexts. Research opportunities in advanced manufacturing particularly emphasize simulation, modeling, and analysis of manufacturing processes and devices; applications for manufacturing of deterministic and stochastic quality control; and optimization. Mathematical sciences research related to bioprocessing and bioconversion, bioelectronics and bionetworks, agricultural applications, and marine biotechnology is especially encouraged. -Global change research supports the critical development of modeling, analysis, simulation, and prediction in the context of the total Earth system. A particular emphasis is placed on analytical and computational methods for stochastic and deterministic partial differential equations and statistical techniques that encompass the full range of temporal and spatial scales. There are also opportunities in environmental technology, including pollution prevention, monitoring, and remediation. Researchers should be aware of implications of their efforts toward such activities. Group Infrastructure Grants (GIG)-DMS makes awards to groups of three or more investigators for nonsalary infrastructure needs. The awards are to enhance the research environment of the group. A significant factor in the evaluation of these proposals will be the added value and impact of the additional infrastructure support. The deadline dates for submission of proposals and their evaluation are expected to change in fiscal year 1997; the anticipated deadline date is in December 1996. For further information, contact DMS by phone, (703) 306-1870; or consult the MPS Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov:80/mps/start.htm. Algebra and Number Theory-Supports research in algebra including algebraic structures, general algebra, and linear algebra; number theory including algebraic and analytic number theory, quadratic forms, and automorphic forms; and combinatorics and graph theory and algebraic geometry. Applied Mathematics-Supports research in any area of mathematics except probability or statistics. Research is expected to be motivated by or have effect on problems arising in science and engineering, although intrinsic mathematical merit is the major decision factor. Areas of interest include, but are not limited to, partial differential equations modeling natural phenomena or arising from problems in science and engineering; continuum mechanics; reaction-diffusion and wave propagation; dynamical systems; asymptotic methods; numerical analysis; variational methods; control theory; optimization theory; inverse problems; mathematics of biological or geological sciences; and mathematical physics. Analysis-Supports research on properties and behavior of solutions of differential equations; variational methods; approximations and special functions; analysis of several complex variables and singular integrals; harmonic analysis and wavelet theory; Kleinian groups and functions of one complex variable; real analysis; Banach spaces, Banach algebras, and function algebras; Lie groups and their representations; harmonic analysis; ergodic theory and dynamical systems; some aspects of mathematical physics such as Schroedinger operators and quantum field theory; and operators and algebras of operators on Hilbert space. Computational Mathematics-Computation is increasingly important in all sciences. Mathematics plays a unique role in providing the development of basic algorithms and techniques that are necessary to carry out computations. Proposals from interdisciplinary teams of mathematical, computer, and general scientists are encouraged in an effort to develop critical computational techniques from algorithm development through implementation. Proposals for innovative computational methods within the mathematical sciences are also encouraged. Geometric Analysis-Supports research on differential geometry and its relation to partial differential equations and variational principles; aspects of global analysis including the differential geometry of complex manifolds and geometric Lie group theory; geometric methods in modern mathematical physics and dynamical systems; and geometry of convex sets, integral geometry, and related geometric topics. Statistics and Probability-Statistical theory and methods are used to plan scientific experiments and to understand and analyze data. Major subfields include parametric and nonparametric inference, sequential analysis, multivariate analysis, Bayesian analysis, experimental design, time series analysis, resampling methods, and robust statistics. Almost all of these subfields have become computationally intensive in recent times. Probability theory is the study of mathematical structures that provide tractable models to statistics and many diverse areas such as physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering. Major subfields include stochastic processes, limit theory, infinite particle systems, stochastic analysis in Banach spaces, martingales, and Markov processes. Topology and Foundations-Supports research on algebraic topology including homotopy theory, ordinary and extraordinary homology and cohomology, cobordism theory, and K-theory; topological manifolds and cell complexes, fiberings, knots, and links; differential topology and actions of groups of transformations; general topology and continua theory; and mathematical logic including proof theory, recursion theory and model theory, foundations of set theory, and infinite combinatorics. General Conferences, Workshops, Symposia, Special Years, and Related Activities-Proposals for general conferences, workshops, symposia, special years, and related activities should be submitted to the appropriate disciplinary program. Proposals should be submitted 1 year in advance of the start of the activity. Contact the division for information on proposal requirements. Target Dates The following is a list of established target dates. Listed below each one are the programs that will be using the date as their deadline for submission of proposals. These dates do not apply to the activities in the Mathematical Sciences Infrastructure Program since most of these activities have their own specified target or deadline dates. The established target dates for fiscal year 1997 were: October 11, 1996: Algebra and Number Theory November 6, 1996: Applied Mathematics (excluding Mathematical Biology) Geometric Analysis Statistics and Probability Topology and Foundations December 4, 1996: Analysis (formerly Classical Analysis and Modern Analysis) Computational Mathematics Mathematical Biology For More Information For further information on DMS programs, write the Mathematical and Physical Sciences Directorate, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 1025, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1870; or consult the MPS Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov:80/mps/start.htm. Mathematical Sciences Infrastructure Program-Supports activities different from the usual research project such as the work of research institutes. Activities include: Regional Conferences-Operated by the Conference Board of the Mathematical Sciences, these conferences feature a principal speaker who gives 10 1-hour talks on a particular subject during a week-long session. The deadline for submission of proposals is April 1, 1997. Scientific Computing Research Environments in the Mathematical Sciences-Offers moderate grants for computing equipment that will benefit groups of researchers of outstanding quality who are highly productive but whose work has been seriously impeded by the lack of computing facilities. The deadline for proposal submission is the first Monday in December. Undergraduate Activities-Awards are made in conjunction with NSF-wide undergraduate efforts including Research Experiences for Undergraduates, cooperative activities with the Directorate for Education and Human Resources, and other related activities. See Chapter 3, "Education and Human Resources," and Chapter 9, "Other Programs and Activities," for more on NSF's undergraduate efforts. Mathematical Sciences Postdoctoral Research Fellowships-These fellowships will be awarded to between 30 and 40 new fellows in fiscal year 1997. Tenure provides a research instructorship option. These fellowships will be offered only to persons who (1) are citizens, nationals, or lawfully admitted permanent resident aliens of the United States as of January 1, 1997; (2) will have earned by the beginning of their fellowship tenure, a doctoral degree in one of the mathematical sciences listed above or have had research training and experience equivalent to that represented by a Ph.D. in one of those fields; (3) will have held the doctorate for no more than 5 years as of January 1, 1997; and (4) will not previously have held any other NSF postdoctoral fellowship. Each applicant will be required to submit a research plan for the tenure period requested. The fellowships are not intended to support the preparation of prior research results for publication or the writing of textbooks. Anticipated deadline for submission is October 17, 1997. University/Industry Cooperative Research Programs in the Mathematical Sciences-Technical innovations flourish through a symbiotic relationship between academia and industry. The mathematical sciences provide a foundation for the scientific progress that generates technical innovations. It is important to provide more opportunities to conduct research and training in an industrial environment and for industrial scientists to return periodically to academia. To facilitate both research and training, the division provides Mathematical Sciences University/Industry Postdoctoral Research Fellowships, Mathematical Sciences University/Industry Senior Research Fellowships, and Industry-Based Graduate Research Assistantships and Cooperative Fellowships in the Mathematical Sciences. The anticipated deadline for submission of proposals is November 13, 1997. Contact the division for further details. For More Information For further information, write the Program Officer, Infrastructure Program, Mathematical Sciences Division, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 1025, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1870; or consult the MPS Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov:80/mps/start.htm. Physics The Physics Division (PHY) supports a wide range of programs, many of which support individual investigators and small groups. The division operates a few large-scale facilities including the Cornell Electron Storage Ring (CESR), the Indiana University Cyclotron Facility (IUCF), and the Michigan State University National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory (NSCL); is supervising the construction of the Laser Interferometer Gravity Wave Observatory (LIGO); and also operates several smaller centers that specialize in optical physics and various aspects of theoretical physics. The activities in the Elementary Particle Physics and Nuclear Physics Programs benefit greatly from the use of the large accelerator facilities that are constructed by the Department of Energy. The division also offers small-scale approaches through programs such as Biological Physics and Particle Astrophysics. The research activities in the PHY Division are inextricably linked to education and support about 1,000 graduate students who are fully engaged in research programs. Some of these programs also involve substantial numbers of undergraduate students, especially the summer activities that are centered around the Research Experiences for Undergraduates Program. Research activities at 4-year colleges are supported through the Research at Undergraduate Institutions Program. In addition, the division offers significant training opportunities for young people through its support of about 500 postdoctoral positions. Atomic, Molecular, Optical, and Plasma Physics-Supports research in Atomic and Molecular Physics including the electronic structure of isolated neutral and ionized atoms and molecules, their interparticle collision dynamics, and their interactions with charged particles and with electromagnetic radiation; and the collective behavior of atoms, molecules, and their ionization products in general and collisionless plasma environments. In Optical Physics, a rapidly growing part of the program, specific current interests include the nonlinear response of isolated atoms to intense, ultrashort electromagnetic fields; the structure of "exotic" atoms; and ultraprecise tests of basic atomic properties and the laws of quantum electrodynamics using well-characterized electromagnetic fields. The Center for Ultrafast Optics, at the University of Michigan has been extremely successful in its outreach to commercial corporations and new companies. The Joint Institute for Laboratory Astrophysics (JILA) at the University of Colorado, supported jointly with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), conducts leading-edge research in many aspects of atomic, molecular, and optical physics, including precision measurements, fundamental symmetries, and ultracold atoms. The Center for Light Force Dynamics is a consortium of several universities, government laboratories, and private corporations. Its purpose is to study the fundamental physics of light/matter interactions and to use that knowledge in the development of new science and technology. Elementary Particle Physics-Supports research on the properties and interactions of elementary particles; the experimental explanation of the most fundamental building blocks of matter including quarks and leptons; and the interactions among elementary constituents. Research involves the use of high-energy beams from large accelerators or cosmic rays. Support goes primarily to university groups to conduct research at major accelerator laboratories worldwide or to specialized university-based facilities. The program supports the Cornell Electron Storage Ring (CESR), which produces electron and positron colliding beams that allow detailed studies of b-meson physics and upsilon physics; and an aggressive program of synchrotron radiation research at the Cornell High-Energy Synchrotron Source (CHESS), which is operated by the Division of Materials Research. The CESR facility is in the process of being upgraded to produce higher luminosity, and upon completion, the accelerator will be among the most powerful in the world. The division also supports an aggressive cross-disciplinary effort in particle and nuclear astrophysics. Gravitational Physics-Emphasizes the theory of strong gravitational fields and their application to astrophysics and cosmology; the fine details of weak gravitational fields; gravitational radiation; and gravitational interaction with quantum mechanical systems. This program also supports a number of experimental investigations. Management of LIGO construction is carried out in this program, and support is provided for LIGO users. Nuclear Physics-Supports research on the properties and behavior of nuclei and nuclear matter under extreme conditions; the quark-gluon basis for the structure and dynamics of nuclear matter (now given in terms of mesons and nucleons); the phase transitions of nuclear matter from normal nuclear density and temperature to the predicted high-temperature quark-gluon plasma; basic interactions and fundamental symmetries; and nuclear astrophysics, ranging from stellar processes and nucleon-synthesis to cosmology. This involves many probes including intermediate energy to multi-GeV electrons and photons; intermediate energy light ions; low energy to relativistic heavy ions including radioactive beams; and may include non-accelerator-based studies. Other important components include accelerator physics, interdisciplinary efforts, and applications to other fields. The program supports university user groups executing experiments at a large number of laboratories in the United States and abroad and also two national user facilities-a light-ion cyclotron and booster/storage ring facility at Indiana University (IUCF) and a superconducting heavy-ion cyclotron facility at Michigan State University (NCSL). Theoretical Physics-Supports the development of qualitative and quantitative understanding of fundamental physical systems ranging from the most elementary constituents of matter through nuclei and atoms to astrophysical objects. This includes formulating new approaches for theoretical, computational, and experimental research that explores fundamental laws of physics and the behavior of physical systems; formulating quantitative hypotheses; exploring and analyzing the implications of such hypotheses computationally; and in some cases, interpreting the results of experiments. The program supports research in elementary particle physics, nuclear physics, atomic and molecular physics, astrophysics and cosmology, mathematical physics, computational physics, nonlinear dynamics, chaos, statistical physics, and plasma physics and includes a considerable number of interdisciplinary grants. Special Programs-Supports activities in conjunction with Foundation-wide programs such as the Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Program, Research Experiences for Undergraduates, and those programs aimed at women, underrepresented minorities, and persons with disabilities (see Chapter 3, "Education and Human Resources," and Chapter 9, "Other Programs and Activities"). In addition, the division supports activities that are geared toward improving the education and training of physics students (both undergraduate and graduate) and that are not included in specific programs elsewhere in the Foundation, including curriculum development for upper-level physics courses. Also offered is an initiative in Biological Physics and other emerging areas of science. Chemistry The Chemistry Division (CHE) supports research activities and research infrastructure development in most of the principal subdisciplines of the chemical sciences. However, support for research in the different areas of chemistry is also available from the other divisions including Atmospheric Sciences (atmospheric chemistry); Molecular and Cellular Biosciences (biochemistry and biophysics); Chemical and Transport Systems (chemical engineering); Earth Sciences (geochemistry); and Materials Research (solid-state and polymer science). The CHE Division supports research activities in emerging areas of national interest that cut across "traditional" subdisciplines. These areas include biological chemistry and biotechnology; the chemistry of advanced materials; high performance computing and communications; and advanced manufacturing including fundamental research strengthening chemical and pharmaceutical manufacture. Also included is environmental chemistry, including research in greenhouse gas dynamics, an activity in the Environmentally Benign Chemical Synthesis and Processing Program (see the publication Environmentally Benign Chemical Synthesis and Processing, NSF 92-13), which is supported jointly with the Engineering Directorate and the Geosciences Directorate through its Environmental Geochemistry and Biogeochemistry Program (see the publication Environmental Geochemistry and Biogeochemistry, NSF 96-152). Many of these activities are part of research programs that are coordinated through the National Science and Technology Council. Research in subdisciplinary areas is also a vital part of the Chemistry Research Project Support investment portfolio. These areas include the following: Analytical and Surface Chemistry-Supports fundamental chemical research directed toward the characterization and analysis of all forms of matter. Studies of elemental and molecular macrocomposition and of the microstructure of both bulk and surface domains are included. Investigations designed to probe the chemical structure and reactivity of the interface between different forms of matter are the responsibility of this program. Within NSF, the program has active links to Solid State Chemistry (DMR-see elsewhere in this chapter), Biochemistry and Biophysics (MCB in the BIO Directorate), Atmospheric Chemistry (ATM in the GEO Directorate), and Chemical Reaction Processes, and Interface, Transport, and Separations Processes (CTS in the ENG Directorate). Inorganic, Bioinorganic, and Organometallic Chemistry-Supports research on the synthesis, properties, and reaction mechanisms of molecules containing metals, metalloids, and nonmetals encompassing the entire periodic table of the elements. Included are studies of homogeneous catalytic chemical reactions; bioinorganic and organometallic reactions; and the rational synthesis of new inorganic substances with predictable chemical, physical, and biological properties. Such research provides the basis for understanding the function of metal ions in biological systems, for understanding the behavior of new inorganic materials and new industrial catalysts, and for systematic understanding of the chemistry of most of the elements in the environment. Organic Chemical Dynamics-Supports research to advance knowledge of carbon-based molecules, metallo-organic systems, and organized molecular assemblies. Experimental, computational, and theoretical work that illuminates chemical structures, reactivity, and properties and work that provides organic mechanistic, structural, and kinetic foundations for the understanding of biological processes are all considered. The program has links within NSF to Solid State Chemistry and Polymers (DMR-see elsewhere in this chapter), Chemical Reaction Processes (CTS in the ENG Directorate), and Biochemistry and Biophysics (MCB in the BIO Directorate). Organic Synthesis-Supports research on the synthesis of carbon-based molecules, organometallic systems, and organized molecular assemblies. Research includes the development of new reagents and methods for organic synthesis and characterization, and support is available for the investigation of natural products and new organic materials. Such research provides the basis for the designed syntheses of new materials and natural products of importance to the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. Within the Foundation, the program has links to Biochemistry (MCB in the BIO Directorate) and Polymers (DMR-see elsewhere in this chapter). Experimental Physical Chemistry-Provides support for experimental research directed at the molecular level of understanding of the physical properties of chemical systems. Experimental methodologies employed include frequency domain and time domain spectroscopic techniques covering the entire range of the electromagnetic spectrum; time-resolved dynamical studies of state-selected and mass-selected systems; and reactive scattering in molecular beams. Chemical systems studied range from single isolated molecules or ions to clusters, liquids, and solids. Chemical properties of interest include molecular structure and the shape of the ground and excited electronic-state potential energy surfaces; chemical dynamics of unimolecular and bimolecular chemical processes; time-resolved internal energy redistribution and state-to-state dynamics in molecular systems; and solute-solvent interactions in clusters and liquids. The program has numerous interdisciplinary links to other NSF programs including Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics (PHY-see elsewhere in this chapter), Biophysics (MCB in the BIO Directorate), Atmospheric Chemistry (ATM in the GEO Directorate), and various programs in Materials Research (DMR-see elsewhere in this chapter). Theoretical and Computational Chemistry-Provides support for theoretical and computational research in areas of electronic structure, statistical mechanics, computer simulations, and chemical dynamics. The program also supports some areas of experimental thermodynamics and condensed phase dynamics of chemical systems that rely heavily on theoretical interpretation of experimental data. Areas of application span the full range of chemical systems, from small molecules to macromolecules; and degrees of aggregation, from clusters to macroscopic systems. The goal of projects supported in this program is to provide a molecular level interpretation for chemical properties and reactivity. The program has numerous interdisciplinary links to other NSF programs such as Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics (PHY-see elsewhere in this chapter), Materials Theory (DMR-see elsewhere in this chapter), Biophysics (MCB in the BIO Directorate), and Advanced Scientific Computing (ASC in the CISE Directorate). Chemistry of Materials-Supports chemistry aspects of research problems related to the design, synthesis, and characterization of advanced materials. Emphasis is on projects that take a chemistry-based molecular or supramolecular approach to materials synthesis and performance from an experimental, theoretical, and computational perspective. Current research areas include the synthesis of new molecular organic, inorganic, and organometallic precursors to polymeric, ceramic, electronic, photonic, magnetic, and biomolecular materials; chemical reactivity of polymeric, microporous, and other solid substrates; materials-related chemistry of thin films and interfaces; synthesis of new molecular nanoscopic materials with novel or improved properties; research on catalysts and reactive molecular intermediates for materials synthesis; molecular basis of materials properties such as nonlinear optical activity, conductivity, magnetism, and liquid crystalline behavior; molecular switching and electronics; and supramolecular self-assembly. The Chemistry of Materials activity has strong links to several programs in the Division of Materials Research and the Directorates for Engineering and Biological Sciences. Office of Special Projects-Supports or coordinates the support of much of the division's infrastructure activities. Among these is a nationwide network of 55 sites for Research Experiences for Undergraduates (see program announcement NSF 96-102); Research Planning Grants and Career Advancement Awards for Women (see program announcement NSF 93-130) and Minority Scientists and Engineers (see program announcement NSF 94-147); grants for Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) (see program announcement NSF 96-115); and various special-purpose grants in education, curriculum development, and graduate training. Chemistry Research Instrumentation and Facilities (CRIF) Program-Supports purchase or upgrade of departmental multiuser instrumentation; departmental instrumentation for junior faculty who are establishing their academic careers; instrumentation development; and chemistry research facilities. The first two topics focus on departmental development in the context of the university setting and are intended to facilitate research by grantees (and potential grantees) who are being supported by the CHE Division. Instrumentation development is intended to implement, test, and introduce new concepts for chemical measurement to be used on a wider scale. Chemistry research facilities provide unique, state-of-the-art instrumentation and expertise to users from the chemical sciences community. Only a few facilities are supported at any time. Individuals interested in submitting a proposal must first contact a staff person in the CHE Division. The CRIF Program interfaces with the following programs: Major Research Instrumentation Program, Small Business Innovation Research (see program solicitation NSF 96-67), and Small Business Technology Transfer (see program solicitation NSF 96-3), and the instrumentation programs in the divisions of DMR (see elsewhere in this chapter), DUE (in the EHR Directorate), CDA (in the CISE Directorate), and BIR (in the BIO Directorate). Materials Research The Division of Materials Research (DMR) supports a wide range of programs that address fundamental phenomena in materials, materials synthesis and processing, materials structure and composition, materials properties and performance, and materials education. Formal research program areas are Metals, Ceramics, and Electronic Materials, Materials Theory, Condensed Matter Physics, Solid-State Chemistry and Polymers, and Materials Research Science and Engineering Centers. Investments in research infrastructure in materials science are also made through the National Facilities and Instrumentation Program. DMR plays a significant role in various interdisciplinary areas and programs including Advanced Materials and Processing (AMPP), High Performance Computing and Communications (HPCC), and Manufacturing (MAN). The division also participates in the Biotechnology, Civil Infrastructure Systems, and Environment and Global Change research initiatives. DMR's interest in HPCC ranges from computational approaches to real materials and processes, and materials for new or advanced computational and communications devices and systems. Manufacturing supports research in areas ranging from the understanding of the fundamental materials science basis of phenomena (e.g., lubrication, adhesion, joining, forming, and packaging) that broadly crosscuts strategically significant industrial sectors, to materials for specific manufacturing processes and applications. In the area of environmental research, the division is concerned with the preparation of innovative materials, with new processes that are more environmentally benign, and with novel concepts for reuse or recycling of materials. DMR funding modes include support for individual investigators, groups, centers, national facilities, and instrumentation. Individual investigator proposals do not have to be confined or targeted to a specific program. Staff and management work to facilitate the cofunding of highly meritorious proposals across appropriate program, division, or directorate boundaries. Metals, Ceramics, and Electronic Materials (MCEM)-Projects are composed primarily of experimental activities but may incorporate some related theoretical and computational research. The objective is to increase the understanding and predictive capabilities for relating synthesis, processing, and microstructure of these materials to their properties and performance in various applications and environments. Research in the metals component encompasses broad areas of physical and mechanical metallurgy such as phase transformations; thermodynamics and phase equilibria; microstructural characterization and morphology; fundamentals of solidification; nonequilibrium and amorphous materials; nanostructured metal alloys; high performance metal alloys; metallic thin films; surface structure and properties; interface and grain boundary structure; corrosion and oxidation; defects; deformation and fracture of metals and their composites; surface modification; and advanced materials processing. The ceramics component includes research on structural and electronic (functional) ceramics and glasses. Research support includes synthesis and processing of advanced ceramics; fundamental studies in ceramics; low-temperature chemical synthesis and processing; ceramic thin films; toughening mechanisms; novel analytical characterization techniques; advanced atomic-scale characterization of defects, interfaces, and microstructures; mechanical behavior of ceramics and ceramic composites; computational modeling of mechanical behavior; behavior under complex stress states and in extreme environments; chemical stability, reactivity, and kinetics; defect structures; and transport properties. Examples of research in the electronic materials component are electronic, magnetic, ferroelectric, and optical behavior of inorganic materials, semiconductors, superconductors, insulators, and nonlinear optical materials; synthesis and processing of thin films; hetero-epitaxial layers, nanostructures, and superlattice structures; fundamentals of epitaxy; atomic structure of defects and interfaces; beam/solid interactions; beam and field processing; ion implantation doping; supersaturated semiconductor alloys; novel processing routes and precursors; in situ low-temperature processing and diagnostics; and characterization of electronic and optical behavior of defects and defect arrays. Materials Theory (MT)-Provides support for theoretical grants in the research areas mentioned in the program descriptions for Metals, Ceramics, and Electronic Materials; Condensed Matter Physics; and Solid-State Chemistry and Polymers. This program also supports research that helps advance theoretical methods and a broad spectrum of analytical and computational research in condensed matter physics, solid-state chemistry, and advanced materials. The emphasis is on an atomistic approach to materials research ranging from the electronic to the microstructural/mesoscopic level. Research is presently supported on surface and interfacial phenomena; systems far from equilibrium; phase transformations and transitions; nanostructured materials; complex fluids; strongly correlated systems; nonlinear and dynamical systems; biomolecular materials; applications of advanced computing to real materials; electronic structure calculations; materials growth; predictive capabilities for structure/property relationships; modeling of atomic structure of defects, interfaces, and grain boundaries; electronic, optical, magnetic, and thermal properties; and superconductivity. Condensed Matter Physics (CMP)-Provides support for fundamental experimental research into the physical properties of amorphous, ordered, and nanostructured solids; classical, quantum, and partially ordered fluids; and the interfaces of such condensed phases. Materials being investigated include metals, insulators, semiconductors, amorphous solids, liquid crystals, and biomolecular materials. Phenomena of interest include phase transitions; localization; electronic, magnetic, and lattice structure of solids; superconductivity; elementary excitations including electronic, magnetic, plasma, and lattice; transport and optical properties; and nonlinear dynamics. Current topics of interest include the study of surfaces, interfaces, thin films, nanostructures, quantum fluids, nonequilibrium systems, and phenomena exhibited by systems of reduced dimensionality or reduced crystalline perfection. The development of new experimental techniques is an important part of this activity. Synthesis, characterization, and analysis of new materials by novel methods are also of interest. In addition, support will include experimental research on condensed matter under extreme conditions such as low or ultralow temperatures, ultrahigh pressures, and high magnetic fields. Solid-State Chemistry and Polymers (SSCP)-Is largely experimental and multidisciplinary with strong components of chemistry, physics, and materials science. Emphasis is placed on synthesis, processing, characterization, and structure/property relationships of materials at the molecular level, with particular focus on new materials or materials with superior properties. The solid-state chemistry component of the program supports research in innovative synthetic routes to new inorganic and organic solid-state and mesophase materials; characterization of new materials with novel electronic, optical, magnetic, and chemical behavior; relationships among bulk, surface, interface, and defect structures and properties such as chemisorption, transport, and reactivity; and materials preparation, processing, and optimization by chemical means. The creation of innovative materials exhibiting new phenomena is emphasized within selected classes of advanced materials such as biomolecular, magnetic, and superconducting, and with emphasis on special issues such as environmental concerns related to the processing and utilization of potentially functional materials. The polymers component of the program supports basic research in polymer science with a special emphasis on the specific chemical and physical properties that distinguish macromolecules from small molecules. Topics of interest include the synthesis of novel high-polymeric materials, particularly those with well-defined structures; synthesis and processing of polymer films; unconventional polymerization processes; the characterization of the chemical and physical structure of polymers by state-of-the-art instrumentation methods; the arrangements of macromolecules and the morphology in amorphous, crystalline, and cross-linked polymers; the compatibility and phase relations in block polymers and mixtures of polymers; the chain dynamics and relaxations in macromolecules; the relation of macromolecular characteristics to electronic, optical, surface, solid-state, liquid-crystalline, solution, and other properties; and the fundamental polymer science and surface science of organic-matrix composites. The polymers studied are principally synthetic, but there is an increasing interest in biomolecular materials. Materials Research Science and Engineering Centers (MRSECs)-Supports interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary materials research and education while addressing fundamental problems in science and engineering that are important to society. In deciding to support new research opportunities, MRSECs require outstanding research quality, intellectual breadth, and interdisciplinary flexibility; support for research infrastructure; and full integration with the academic programs of the participating institutions. These centers have strong links to industry and other sectors, and ultimately they will lead to a national network of university-based centers in materials research. MRSECs address fundamental materials research topics of intellectual and strategic importance; contribute to national priorities by fostering an active collaboration between universities and other sectors; and enable researchers to address problems of a scope or complexity that requires the advantages of scale and of interdisciplinary interaction that can be provided by a campus-based research center. The MRSEC Program supersedes the Materials Research Laboratories (MRL) and the Materials Research Groups (MRG) Programs, and encompasses the activities of Science and Technology Centers in the materials field. The research undertaken is of a scope and complexity that would not be feasible under traditional funding for individual research projects. Each MRSEC encompasses one or more interdisciplinary research groups with the scope of its activities depending on the capabilities of the participating institution(s). The larger centers are expected to initiate a broad program of research and education that may involve several interdisciplinary groups, and programs to stimulate interdisciplinary education and the development of human resources; active collaboration with industry and other sectors and institutions; and support for shared experimental facilities. NSF encourages the use of MRSEC funds to include support for junior faculty and high-risk research and to foster emerging areas of interdisciplinary materials research. NSF currently supports 24 MRSECs. The next open competition is planned for fiscal year 1998. National Facilities and Instrumentation (NAFI)-Provides support for two major activities within DMR: (1) the development and acquisition of state-of-the-art instrumentation to carry out advanced materials research and (2) the operation of national user facilities. Proposals are considered for research topics that are within the general range of DMR programs. Also considered are proposals that are in collaboration with investigators whose research falls within the purview of the various divisions throughout the Foundation. The Instrumentation for Materials Research (IMR) Program offers support for major shared instruments that are essential to the needs of investigators conducting research in two or more disciplinary areas within DMR or that span more than one NSF division, and for instrumentation required by one or more investigators conducting research in a single disciplinary area within DMR that has a total cost of approximately $100,000 or more. The program strongly encourages submission of proposals for the development of new instruments that have the potential to solve important materials problems, proposals that will significantly advance measurement capabilities, and proposals that will lead to new discoveries. The current IMR Program guidelines are contained in the program announcement Instrumentation for Materials Research-Guidelines for Submission of Grant Proposals (NSF 94-108) and contain the information necessary for preparing an instrumentation proposal. The publication can be accessed electronically by e-mail, pubs@nsf.gov; on the MPS Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov:80/mps/start.htm; or by calling the Division of Materials Research, (703) 306-1810. Examples of major equipment supported by the IMR Program are electron microscopes; scanning tunneling microscopes; x-ray diffractometers; SQUID magnetometers; dilution refrigerators; instrumentation for surface and bulk spectroscopies such as NMR spectrometers and laser systems; instrumentation for synchrotron radiation beamlines; equipment for materials synthesis and growth, such as MBE systems; hot-isostatic presses; ion implantation equipment; mechanical testing equipment; and electron-beam lithography systems. National User Facilities are research facilities with specialized instrumentation available to the scientific research community, particularly the materials research community. These facilities provide unique research capabilities that can be located at only a very few highly specialized laboratories in the Nation. Examples include facilities and resources for research using high magnetic fields, ultraviolet and x-ray synchrotron radiation, small-angle neutron scattering, and nanofabrication. For More Information The following is a list of National User Facilities and their addresses. Interested users are strongly encouraged to contact the facilities directly. Center for High-Resolution Neutron Scattering National Institute of Standards and Technology Reactor Radiation Division Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899 (301) 975-6242 URL Address: http://rrdjazz.nist.gov/ Cornell High-Energy Synchrotron Source Wilson Laboratory Cornell University Ithaca, New York 14853 (607) 255-7163 URL Address: http://www.chess.cornell.edu/ National High Magnetic Field Laboratory [operated by Florida State University, the University of Florida, and Los Alamos National Laboratory] Florida State University 1800 E. Paul Dirac Drive Tallahassee, Florida 32306-4005 (904) 644-6257 or (904) 644-4068 URL Address: http://www.magnet.fsu.edu/ Synchrotron Radiation Center University of Wisconsin at Madison 3731 Schneider Drive Stoughton, Wisconsin 53589-2200 (608) 877-2000 URL Address: http://www.src.wisc.edu/ National Nanofabrication Facility Knight Laboratory Cornell University Ithaca, New York 14853 (607) 255-2329 FAX: (607) 255-8601 URL Address: http://www.cnf.cornell.edu/ Stanford Nanofabrication Facility CIS Building Stanford University Stanford, California 94305-4070 (415) 725-6266 or (415) 725-NANO FAX: (415) 725-6278 URL Address: http://snf.stanford.edu/NNUN/ Chapter 7 POLAR PROGRAMS The Earth's polar regions offer compelling scientific opportunities, but their isolation and their extreme climates challenge the achievement of these opportunities. The Foundation's programs for support of research in the Antarctic and the Arctic acknowledge the need to understand the relationships of these regions with global processes, the need to understand the regions as unique entities, and the opportunities presented by the regions as research platforms. NSF's polar programs provide special support for investigations in a range of scientific disciplines. In both polar regions, NSF has developed and can provide to investigators the operational capability to deploy and support modern field and laboratory science. The Office of Polar Programs (OPP) encourages proposals for high-risk research, proposals involving educational initiatives, and Small Grants for Exploratory Research (SGER) and Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR). United States Antarctic Research The United States Antarctic Research (USAP) Program is the comprehensive name for U.S. Government-sponsored activities in Antarctica. The Foundation funds and manages the antarctic program in support of the range of U.S. interests and the Nation's adherence to the Antarctic Treaty. The major goal of this program is to increase the understanding of the antarctic region and its relationship to the rest of the planet. USAP only supports research that can be done exclusively in Antarctica or that can be done best in Antarctica. Research Objectives The Foundation provides funding and operational support for basic research in the disciplines discussed below. Occasionally, applied research is supported, usually on a contract basis, to improve operational capabilities in Antarctica. Astrophysics-Located at the Earth's spin axis on the 2.8-kilometer-thick East Antarctic ice sheet, South Pole Station is well situated for long, continuous astronomical and astrophysical observations. The high elevation of the station (2,835 meters), the dry atmosphere, the extremely low effective sky temperature, the isolation from man-made and other noise, and long periods of clear weather provide superior observing conditions. The program objective is to advance astrophysical research by taking advantage of these special characteristics. Atmospheric Sciences-Antarctica has an active relationship with regional and perhaps global weather and climate patterns. Far removed from pollution sources, it is an important monitoring and research area for world background levels of natural and anthropogenic atmospheric constituents. Conditions in Antarctica have proven to be reflections of global atmospheric changes on many scales. Research objectives include improving the understanding of physical processes of the atmosphere; determining the relationship between events and conditions in the antarctic atmosphere and global events; and determining the region's role in past and present global climate. Earth Sciences-Antarctica represents about 9 percent of the Earth's continental crust and has been in a near-polar position for more than 100 million years. Reconnaissance studies have explained many general aspects of the geology of the continent, and major evidence in support of plate tectonics models and of the Gondwana supercontinent has been developed. Geologic maps have been made for some areas. Geophysical investigation of the sub-ice bedrock is a relatively new element of the program. An aerogeophysical facility has been developed with the capability of acquiring ice-elevation, ice-thickness, and magnetic and gravity data over the continent. Over-snow seismic capabilities are anticipated for the future. Overall objectives of the program include explaining the geology and geological evolution of Antarctica and understanding the relationship of Antarctica to global geodynamic systems. Environmental Research-Supports peer-reviewed basic and applied research to help reduce the environmental footprint of NSF's activities in Antarctica and establish a baseline for future measurements. Areas of inquiry include basic research, environmental policy research, effects of past practices, environmental monitoring activities, materials and waste management, current impacts, resilience of ecosystems, and promising technologies. Proposals will be considered from basic and applied research disciplines in any field of science, mathematics, or engineering normally supported by NSF at academic institutions, federal agencies, and the private sector. Glaciology-Supports studies on the world's largest ice sheet, which covers 97 percent of the Antarctic continent and is up to 4.8 kilometers thick. It is a storehouse of information about climate and atmospheric constituents and their variation over time. Objectives are to determine the dynamics of the ice sheets; to understand the climatic record stored in the layers of firn and ice; to determine the history of glacial advance and retreat through study of glacial-geologic deposits; and to determine the present dynamic status of the ice sheets and their relationship to glacial and climatic history. Instrumentation-Instrumentation development and support will be considered for funding in such areas as acquiring new research equipment or modernizing existing equipment; developing instruments or techniques that extend research capabilities; supporting research technicians; performing demonstration or feasibility projects; and developing new or enhanced remote sensing techniques. Marine Biology-Supports research on the oceans around Antarctica that make up one of the world's most productive regions. Objectives include understanding the structure and function of the antarctic marine ecosystems; determining the major features and adaptations of organisms; and acquiring more knowledge of their distribution, abundance, and dynamics. Major focus is on ship- and shore-based studies that stress trophodynamics, including detailed investigations at all trophic levels. Emphases include krill, ice-edge ecosystems, and low-temperature adaptations. Marine Geology and Geophysics-The seafloor around Antarctica is complex and presents fundamental problems in marine geology and geophysics. Its sediments provide a detailed record of changes over time in the size of the antarctic ice sheet. Objectives are to interpret geological and glacial history as recorded in sediments and to support studies of specific scientific problems revealed by earlier surveys. Medical Research-Biomedical studies are directed toward epidemiology of viral infections and physiological and psychological attributes of people in small isolated groups. Physical and Chemical Oceanography-Supports research on the Southern Ocean, which has a central role in world ocean circulation. Large-scale heat exchange and ice formation at the ocean surface overturn the water column and mix trace constituents, making the Southern Ocean the site of global-scale ventilation and a major source of the world's intermediate and deep-water masses. Huge changes in the extent of sea ice-varying annually between 4 and 20 million square kilometers-also influence energy transfer. The Antarctic Circumpolar Current, the world's largest ocean current, has a major effect on general oceanic circulation. Research objectives include determining the dynamics of formation and distribution of water masses, currents, and sea ice; investigating the relationship between oceanic and atmospheric circulation systems and the physical basis for biological productivity; and investigating the relationship of the Southern Ocean and climate. Terrestrial and Freshwater Biology-The biota of terrestrial and freshwater Antarctica are of special interest, particularly their adaptation to the extreme environment. The simplicity of these ecosystems provides opportunities for analysis that is more difficult and sometimes impossible in the complex systems of the lower latitudes. The primary research objective is to understand the features and adaptations of organisms and to gain further knowledge of their distribution, abundance, and dynamics. Upper Atmosphere Physics-Supports unique studies of the Earth's magnetosphere and ionosphere and of Sun/Earth relationships. These studies are possible in Antarctica because of its physically stable location at a high geomagnetic latitude. Year-round station-based research is possible at geomagnetic latitudes that range from 53 degrees south at Palmer, to 79 degrees south at McMurdo Station. Automatic Geophysical Observatories (AGOs) are also available to provide year-round support for low-powered autonomous instruments at several remote sites on the ice sheet. Research objectives include improving the understanding of Earth's upper atmosphere and near-space environment; investigating coupling among the neutral atmosphere, the ionosphere, and the magnetosphere; and investigating solar terrestrial effects. Long-Duration Ballooning-In cooperation with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), NSF has developed the capability to launch from McMurdo balloon science payloads that weigh over a ton and will reach altitudes of approximately 40 kilometers. These balloons will then drift once or twice around the South Pole during a 10- to 30-day period. This capability can be used by several disciplines and can, in some cases, serve as a low-cost substitute for space flight. Operational Support In addition to research, the program provides scientists with logistics, operational, and laboratory support in Antarctica. This support includes a year-round inland research station at the South Pole, located 90 degrees south latitude; two year-round coastal research stations with extensive laboratory and computing capabilities-one at McMurdo, located 78 degrees south, and one at Palmer, located 64 degrees south; summer camps, as required for research; the ice-strengthened research ship Polar Duke, which is 67 meters in length; the icebreaking research ship Nathaniel B. Palmer, which is 94 meters in length; a fleet of ski-equipped LC-130 airplanes; Twin Otter airplanes, used when required; helicopters; an icebreaker used for channel breaking at McMurdo as well as for research support; a variety of over-snow vehicles; and automated, unmanned weather and geophysical observatories. Occasionally, ships from the U.S. academic fleet and from the Ocean Drilling Program help support research activities in Antarctica. Air transport between New Zealand and McMurdo is provided several times per week in the austral summer, which runs from early October to the end of February. From McMurdo, the logistics hub, groups can access other sites, including the station at the South Pole. Several flights are made in August between New Zealand and McMurdo that provide an opportunity for winter access. Other winter flights to McMurdo are feasible, if required. Between February and October the summer camps are closed, and winter research is limited to the immediate environs of the South Pole and McMurdo, where station residents are isolated for as long as 8 months. Palmer Station, located on Anvers Island by the Antarctic Peninsula, relies mainly on the Polar Duke (during or between research cruises) for transport to a port at the southern tip of South America. The ship makes several trips throughout the year. Air access via a Chilean station on King George Island is provided on occasion. The Polar Duke provides onboard research support in marine biology, oceanography, and geophysics and can support science in other areas of the southern oceans. U.S. antarctic stations and ships provide voice and data communications, including Internet, to locations outside Antarctica. Non-U.S. Facilities-International Cooperation The United States is very enthusiastic about cooperative research activities with the other nations that are part of the Antarctic Treaty. U.S. scientists wishing to do research with other nations' programs are asked to contact the Office of Polar Programs (OPP) science program manager before submitting a proposal. Eligibility U.S. academic institutions and academically related nonprofit organizations may submit proposals for research project support. Industry and local, State, and federal agencies also are eligible. The Foundation particularly encourages proposals from women, minorities, and persons with disabilities and proposals for research projects that include participation by undergraduates and high school graduates under the guidelines established by NSF cross-disciplinary programs such as Research Experiences for Undergraduates. All persons proposing to work in Antarctica must pass a physical examination that has standards specified by the USAP. Proposal Preparation The following publications describe research opportunities in more detail than does the NSF Guide to Programs. They contain material to help proposers evaluate the potential environmental impact of their projects and describe their operational needs in Antarctica; give instructions that are special to the USAP; and describe individuals' legal obligations for antarctic conservation and waste management under the Antarctic Conservation Act, a U.S. law. These publications include -Antarctic Research Program Announcement and Proposal Guide (NSF 96-93); -Antarctic Research Program Announcement and Proposal Guide (NSF 93-49); and -Cooperative Agreements for Environmental Research in Support of U.S. Antarctic Program Environmental Management (NSF 93-96). The Grant Proposal Guide (NSF 95-27) explains NSF proposal requirements, offers guidance for preparing proposals, and includes the Proposal Forms Kit (NSF 95-28), which contains the forms needed to submit a proposal. To obtain copies of these publications by mail, write to the NSF Publications Unit, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room P15, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1130, or by e-mail, pubs@nsf.gov. For More Information For answers to questions that are not readily answered in the books referenced above, you may contact a program manager from any one of the programs in OPP at (703) 306-1033. For questions of an operational nature, contact a member of the Polar Research Support Section at (703) 306-1032. Specialists also are available in the areas of environmental protection, safety, and Antarctic Conservation Act permits. Further information is also available on the OPP Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov:80/od/opp/start.htm. Deadline Window The annual submission period for antarctic proposals is a 1-month window period that runs from May 1 to June 1. Proposals received before May 1 normally will be returned for later submission. Proposals postmarked after June 1 are subject to return without review. To provide time for proposal review and for operational planning, proposals normally will be considered for fieldwork beginning no sooner than a year later. Thus proposals received in May 1997 will be considered for the 1998-99 austral summer season and the 1999 austral winter. Field projects requiring large amounts of cargo in Antarctica may require additional lead time to allow for transport by ship. Requests for support of antarctic research not involving work in the field should be received in May prior to the fiscal year in which funds are sought. Thus proposals received in May 1997 will be considered for funding beginning in fiscal year 1998, which begins October 1, 1997. Literature -Antarctic Journal of the United States-Produced since 1966 by NSF, it contains quarterly news plus an annual review of the U.S. Antarctic Research Program. Available from the Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402. The following publications are available from the Polar Research Board, National Academy of Sciences, 2101 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20037; by phone, (202) 334-3479. -An Evaluation of Antarctic Marine Ecosystem Research (1981)* -Physical Oceanography and Tracer Chemistry of the Southern Ocean (1988)* -Recommendations for a United States Ice Coring Program (1986) -Research Emphases for the U.S. Antarctic Program (1983)* -Science and Stewardship in the Antarctic (1993) -Scientific Plan for a Regional Research Program in the Antarctic on Global Change (1994) Other publications about Antarctica that are currently available include the following: -An ongoing antarctic bibliography prepared by the Library of Congress, with NSF support, that abstracts and indexes antarctic research literature from around the world and has been published between 1951 and the present. Twenty-one hardbound volumes and two cumulative indexes have been published to date and cite more than 50,000 titles. -Current Antarctic Literature-A monthly compilation of abstracts issued by the Cold Regions Bibliography Project, Library of Congress, with financial support from NSF. Beginning January 1997, this publication will be available in electronic form only via the World Wide Web, http://www.crrel.usace.army.mil/.index.html. -Antarctic Bibliography-Volumes are printed annually by the Library of Congress and are sold by the Government Printing Office. The bibliography is exported to two commercial services. One service is Questel/ORBIT Information Technologies, which offers the bibliography under the name COLD. They are located at 8000 Westpark Drive, McLean, Virginia 22101; by phone, 800-421-7229. The other service is the National Information Services Corporation (NISC), located at 3100 St. Paul Street, Suite #6, Baltimore, Maryland 21218; by phone, (410) 243-0797. This firm produces the NISC DISC CD-ROM Arctic & Antarctic Regions. The Cold Regions bibliography appears here in a common record format with nine other polar data bases. The NISC DISC is a subscription service that is updated every 6 months. Look for the bibliography (searchable back to 1951) in 1997 on the Library of Congress Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://lcweb.loc.gov/rr/scitech/. -The U.S. Geological Survey has reconnaissance maps of portions of Antarctica at various scales. An Index to Topographic Maps-Antarctica is available from the Distribution Branch, U.S. Geological Survey, Box 25286, Federal Center, Building 41, Denver, Colorado 80225. -Ice cores, ocean-bottom sedimentary cores, terrestrial sedimentary cores, dredged rocks, biological specimens, meteorites, and ocean-bottom photographs are available for study. Further information regarding these samples is in the publication Antarctic Research Program Announcement and Proposal Guide (NSF 96-93). For more information on this publication, see "Eligibility" elsewhere in this chapter. Arctic Research The Arctic Research Program supports the following programs and activities. Grants for Arctic Research The National Science Foundation invites U.S. scientists to submit proposals for research in the Arctic and to perform arctic research at institutions in the United States. The goal of the NSF Arctic Research Program is to gain a better understanding of the Earth's biological, geophysical, chemical, and sociocultural processes and the interactions of ocean, land, atmosphere, biological, and human systems. Arctic research is supported at NSF by the Office of Polar Programs (OPP) and by a number of other disciplinary divisions within the Foundation that are linked through an Arctic Affiliates Group. This group consists of representatives from different NSF programs that support arctic research and coordinates collaborative activities. OPP offers a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary scientific program that emphasizes the special character of the Arctic for scientific study. The arctic regions are among the Earth's most sensitive to environmental change and have long, natural climate records and thousands of years of human settlement. This interplay provides a unique foundation for research on integrated global systems and human adaptation. Programs in OPP encompass a variety of scientific disciplines including biological, social, earth, ocean, and atmospheric sciences, and glaciology. Research in the geosciences, biosciences, and social sciences is linked through the Arctic System Science Program to the U.S. Global Change Research Program. In addition to supporting research on long-term human and environmental interactions, OPP encourages the study of contemporary socioeconomic, cultural, and demographic issues in the changing environment of the post-Cold War world and encourages bipolar research, especially glaciology, permafrost, sea-ice, ecology, conjugate magnetic field lines, and human factor studies. The U.S. Arctic Research and Policy Act of 1984 defines the Arctic as all areas north of the Arctic Circle and all U.S. territory north and west of the boundary formed by the Porcupine, Yukon, and Kuskokwim Rivers; all contiguous seas including the Arctic Ocean and the Beaufort, Bering, and Chukchi Seas; and the Aleutian chain. Field projects falling outside these boundaries but directly related to arctic science and engineering conditions and issues are appropriate, as are related laboratory and theoretical studies. The Foundation is one of 12 federal agencies that sponsor or conduct arctic science, engineering, and related activities. Under an agreement with the U.S. Navy, a nuclear submarine will be available for research in the Arctic Ocean. Researchers are strongly encouraged to pursue this possibility directly with OPP or the Division of Ocean Sciences located in the Directorate for Geosciences. Further information on other agency programs is presented in the journal Arctic Research of the United States (NSF 94-167) and the U.S. Arctic Research Plan and its biennial revisions (NSF 93-127). As the Arctic is the homeland of numerous Native peoples, special attention must be given to all aspects of research that may potentially affect their lives. An interagency statement of "Principles for the Conduct of Research in the Arctic" has been developed, and all arctic research grantees are expected to abide by these guidelines. These guidelines are presented in the appendix section of the program announcement. Arctic Research Opportunities Arctic research projects are supported by OPP and by other disciplinary divisions and programs of NSF. The publication Arctic Science, Engineering, and Education: Directory of Awards is produced each year and contains a compilation of all NSF arctic and related research grants for the previous fiscal year. Copies currently available are for fiscal year 1995 (NSF 96-101). Additional program information can be found in the publication Arctic Research Program: Guidelines for Submission of Proposals (NSF 95-133). Arctic Logistics An arctic logistics component has been established to address special logistics needs. Investigators proposing research projects that require logistics support are encouraged to contact the appropriate OPP program manager for information. Research Programs Listed below are the principal NSF research programs that support arctic research. There are three integrated programs in OPP: Arctic Natural Sciences, Arctic Social Sciences, and Arctic System Science. Arctic Natural Sciences Program-Supports research in atmospheric sciences, biological sciences, earth sciences, glaciology, and ocean and climate systems. The program helps facilitate OPP multidisciplinary, cross-disciplinary, and bipolar projects and coordinates arctic natural sciences research with the Geosciences and Biological Sciences Directorates. Focus areas and activities include the following. Atmospheric Sciences-Focuses on traditional research interests in arctic meteorology, including stratus clouds, tropospheric chemistry, radiation balance, arctic lows, and arctic haze. Research on past climates and atmospheric gases as preserved in snow and ice cores has also been supported, as have studies of atmosphere/sea and atmosphere/ice interactions. In upper atmospheric physics, research currently being funded includes auroral studies, magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling, the plasmapause, and wave particle interactions. Conjugate studies can be considered jointly with the Antarctic Aeronomy and Astrophysics Program. Biological Sciences-Supports projects that emphasize the adaptation of organisms to the arctic environment. Biological studies in the Arctic include support of research in freshwater, marine, and terrestrial biology; organismal adaptation to the arctic environment; ecology; ecosystem structure and processes; and the biological consequences of ultraviolet radiation. An increased interest in the Arctic as a source of natural resources has stimulated research on the effects of human activities on the environment and in its protection and management. A special component of the program focuses on the human factors in the Arctic and Antarctic in collaboration with the Arctic Social Sciences Program (see below). Earth Sciences-Supports all subdisciplines of terrestrial and marine geology and geophysics including, but not limited to, physical and chemical processes that are active at or near the Earth's surface, stratigraphy, soil genesis, permafrost, crustal origin of the Arctic Basin, and paleoecological and paleoclimatic reconstructions and comparisons with modern environments. The Foundation does not support projects aimed at prospecting for mineral occurrences or deposits. Special emphasis is placed on understanding the geological processes that are important to the arctic regions and the geologic history dominated by those processes. Glaciology-OPP is the focal point for glaciological research within the Foundation. Glaciological research is concerned with the study of the history and dynamics of all naturally occurring forms of snow and ice, including seasonal snow, glaciers, and the Greenland ice sheet. Strong emphasis is on paleoenvironments from ice cores, ice dynamics, numerical modeling, glacial geology, and remote sensing of ice sheets. Ocean and Climate Systems-Encompasses a variety of disciplines whose goals are to develop and expand their knowledge about the structure of the Arctic Ocean and adjacent seas; their physical interactions with the global hydrosphere; and the formation and maintenance of the arctic sea-ice cover. Areas of interest include the formation, movement, and mixing of arctic water masses; the growth and decay of sea ice; the exchange of salt and heat with the Atlantic Ocean and the Bering Sea; the magnetic and gravity anomalies, heat flow, and sedimentary history; and the role of the Arctic Ocean and adjacent seas in the global climate. The interdependencies of chemical and physical processes and marine organisms and productivity are considered here and under biology. Arctic Social Sciences Program-OPP's Arctic Social Sciences Program is a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary funded program that encompasses archaeology, cultural, social, and physical anthropology, ethnology, history, geography, sociology, psychology, linguistics, political science, law, economics, and related subjects. Interdisciplinary research themes of particular interest include the following. -Rapid social change, community viability, and human and environmental interactions including issues related to subsistence and sustainable development. -Joint funding and review with programs in the Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences Directorate, when appropriate. -Human Dimensions of Global Change (HDGC), a special activity funded jointly with the Arctic System Science Program (see below), in which support can be provided for general HDGC research, policy sciences research, and research centers and teams. More information on the HDGC Program can be found in the publication Human Dimensions of Global Change (NSF 94-166). -In conjunction with the Antarctic Polar Biology and Medicine Program, supports research on human factors in the Arctic and Antarctic. Relevant themes include small-group interactions, stress and adaptation, and cognition and performance. Arctic System Science (ARCSS) Program-An interdisciplinary program whose goals include understanding the physical, geological, chemical, biological, and sociocultural processes of the arctic system that interact with the total Earth system and thus contribute to or are influenced by global change. ARCSS has five linked ongoing components: Greenland Ice Sheet studies, Paleoclimate of Arctic Lakes and Estuaries (PALE), Ocean/Atmosphere/Ice Interactions (OAII), Land/Atmosphere/Ice Interactions (LAII), and Synthesis, Integration, and Modeling Studies (SIMS). In cooperation with the Arctic Social Sciences Program, projects on human and environmental interactions, system sustainability, and the Human Dimensions of Global Change (HDGC) activity are supported. Specific program opportunities are announced periodically for single and multidisciplinary investigations. Successful proposals are funded by the Office of Polar Programs, by the Atmospheric and Ocean Sciences Divisions in the Directorate for Geosciences, and by the Division of Environmental Biology in the Directorate for Biological Sciences. OPP Deadlines and Proposal Submission Effective January 1, 1996, the Arctic Natural Sciences, Arctic Social Sciences, and Arctic System Science Programs had two target dates: June 1 and December 15. Proposals for workshops and Dissertation Improvement Grants can be submitted at any time. A minimum of 9 months' advance notification is required for research vessel clearances for Russian waters. For the Ocean Sciences Division, a target date of February 15 will allow 9 months' precruise notification, and proposals to the OPP Arctic Program should be submitted by the December 15 target date. All proposals may be submitted as early as 2 months prior to target dates or deadlines. Other Support Most other programs supporting proposals for arctic research have specific deadlines or target dates. Contact the desired program or refer to the NSF Bulletin, a monthly publication produced by the Office of Legislative and Public Affairs, for upcoming program deadlines and target dates. For More Information For further information about activities mentioned in this chapter, call the corresponding office (see list), or consult the OPP Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov:80/od/opp/start.htm. All of the telephone numbers are the Arlington, Virginia, area code 703. The Office of Polar Programs 306-1030 Arctic Natural Sciences 306-1029 Arctic Social Sciences 306-1029 Arctic System Science 306-1029 Arctic Research and Policy 306-1031 Arctic Logistics 306-1031 Antarctic Aeronomy and Astrophysics 306-1033 Antarctic Biology and Medicine 306-1033 Antarctic Earth Sciences 306-1033 Antarctic Glaciology 306-1033 Antarctic Ocean and Climate Systems 306-1033 Antarctic Environmental Research 306-1033 Chapter 8 SOCIAL, BEHAVIORAL, AND ECONOMIC SCIENCES The goals of the Social, Behavioral, and Economic (SBE) Sciences Directorate are to develop basic scientific knowledge of human social behavior, interaction, and decision-making and of social and economic systems, organizations, and institutions; to collect, analyze, and publish data on the status of the Nation's science and engineering human, institutional, and financial resources; and to advance the U.S. science and engineering enterprise by promoting healthy international relationships and by enhancing the work of U.S. researchers through cooperative activities with foreign scientists, engineers, and their institutions. SBE works to meet these goals by supporting activities in the following divisions. The Social, Behavioral, and Economic Research (SBER) Division supports disciplinary research and related activities to advance the understanding of human beings and human culture; disciplinary and interdisciplinary research on human social behavior, social organizations, and systems; and both basic and methodological research and the development of resources for the conduct of research, including large-scale data collection activities. The Science Resources Studies (SRS) Division provides data, analysis, and reports on the overall U.S. scientific and technological enterprise in a global content and its impact on the economy and society. The International Programs (INT) Division supports cooperative research activities in other countries that involve U.S. scientists and engineers and their colleagues. Emphasis is placed on promoting new partnerships, building institutional linkages, and enabling researchers to gain international experience early in their careers. Social, Behavioral, and Economic Research The Division of Social, Behavioral, and Economic Research (SBER) supports research in a broad range of disciplinary and interdisciplinary areas. The division's major focus is to advance fundamental scientific knowledge about cognitive and psychological capacities of human beings; cultural, social, political, spatial, environmental, and biological factors related to human behavior; human behavior, interaction, and decision-making; social, political, legal, and economic systems, organizations, and institutions; and the intellectual, value, process, and impact contexts that govern the development and use of science and technology. The programs in SBER will consider proposals that fall squarely into one of its disciplines or that are interdisciplinary. Support is not provided for clinical research, research on human diseases, or research primarily intended to develop or evaluate treatments for diseases. All programs in SBER consider proposals for research projects, conferences, and workshops. Some programs also consider proposals for doctoral dissertation improvement, the acquisition of specialized research and computing equipment, and large-scale data collection. SBER conducts special initiatives and competitions on a number of topics such as human dimensions of global change, learning and intelligent systems, and human capital. Deadlines Proposals may be submitted at any time; however, for review within 6 months, proposals should be submitted by the established target or deadline date. These dates vary by division and program and are published regularly in the NSF Bulletin, a monthly publication produced by the Office of Legislative and Public Affairs, or are available from the appropriate division or program. For More Information For further information, write the responsible Division Director, Division of Social, Behavioral, and Economic Research, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 995, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or consult the SBE Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov:80/sbe/start.htm. Clusters and Programs in SBER The programs in the SBER Division are organized into five clusters, each of which contains two or more programs. The following is a brief description of the clusters and programs. Anthropological and Geographic Sciences Cluster Archaeology and Archaeometry Program-Supports archaeological research that contributes to an anthropological understanding of the past. Both fieldwork and nonfieldwork are eligible for support. Through a special archaeometry competition, the program provides support for projects that conduct archaeometric work of anthropological significance and that develop archaeometric techniques. Support is also provided for preserving and increasing research accessibility of systematic anthropological collections and for archaeometric laboratories. The annual target dates for submission of research proposals are July 1 and December 1; for Dissertation Improvement Awards, proposals may be submitted at any time. Cultural Anthropology Program-Supports basic research on the causes and consequences of cross-cultural and intracultural variation as such research broadens or refines anthropological theory. In an effort to enhance the quality of students' field research in graduate programs, the program offers Ethnographic Research Training Awards. Scholars' Awards in Methodological Training for Cultural Anthropologists are offered for senior researchers who wish to upgrade their research skills by learning a particular analytical technique. The annual target dates for submission of research proposals are July 1 and December 1; for Dissertation Improvement Awards, the dates are January 1 and July 1. Geography and Regional Science Program-Supports basic research on the causes and consequences of geographical differences in economic, social, cultural, and physical phenomena, including interactions among places and regions and interrelations between human activities and the natural environment. Projects on a variety of domestic and overseas topics that will enhance geographical theory and its applications qualify for support. The annual target dates for submission of research proposals are October 15 and February 15; for Dissertation Improvement Awards, the dates are January 15 and August 15. Physical Anthropology Program-Supports basic research in areas that relate to human evolution and contemporary human variation. Research areas supported by the program include, but are not limited to, human genetic variation, human adaptation, human osteology, human paleontology, primate functional anatomy, and primate behavior. The annual target dates for submission of research proposals are July 1 and December 1; for Dissertation Improvement Awards, proposals may be submitted at any time. Cognitive, Psychological, and Language Sciences Cluster Human Cognition and Perception Program-Supports research on the description, modeling, and development of human mental and perceptual processes including learning, reasoning, problem-solving, concept formation, memory, attention, and perception. Also supported is research emanating from a variety of theoretical traditions and quantitative modeling of cognitive and perceptual processes, including the development of methods for their study. Most research takes place in the laboratory, but field research is supported as appropriate. Research may use clinical populations of subjects only if the primary justification for the research is of a broader and general scientific importance. The annual target dates for submission of research proposals are January 15 and July 15. Linguistics Program-Supports scientific research of all types that focus on natural human language as an object of investigation. The program supports research on the syntactic, semantic, phonetic, and phonological properties of individual languages and of language in general; the psychological processes involved in the use of language; the development of linguistic capacities in children; social and cultural factors in language use, variation, and change; the acoustics of speech and the physiological and psychological processes involved in the production and perception of speech; and the biological bases of language in the central nervous system. The annual target dates for submission of research proposals are January 15 and July 15; for Dissertation Improvement Awards, proposals may be submitted at any time. Social Psychology Program-Supports research on human and social behavior, including cultural influences and development over the life span. Research topics include aggression; altruism; attitude formation and change; attitudes and behavior; attributional processes; emotion; environmental psychology; group decision-making, performance, and process; health psychology; intergroup relations; interpersonal attraction and relations; nonverbal communication; person perception; personality processes; prejudice; the self; social comparison; social cognition; social influence; and stereotyping. The annual target dates for submission of research proposals are January 15 and July 15. Economic, Decision, and Management Sciences Cluster Decision, Risk, and Management Science Program-Supports research that explores fundamental issues in management science; risk analysis; societal and public policy decision-making; behavioral decision-making; and judgment, organizational design, and decision-making under uncertainty. Research funded by the program is directed at increasing the understanding and effectiveness of problem-solving, information processing, and decision-making by individuals, groups, organizations, and society. Funded research must be relevant to an operational or applied context, grounded in theory, based on empirical observation or subject to empirical validation, and generalization. The program conducts a special joint NSF/private sector initiative through which NSF funding is matched by contributions from private firms to conduct basic research that is firmly grounded in real and practical contexts. The annual target dates for submission of all proposals are January 15 and August 15. Economics Program-Supports basic scientific research designed to improve the understanding of the processes and institutions of the U.S. economy and of the world system of which it is a part. Emphasis is placed on strengthening both empirical and theoretical economic analysis and on the methods for rigorous research on economic behavior. Topics of current interest are computational economics; the transformation of command economies; human resource-related issues such as poverty, labor productivity, the family, gender, and racial discrimination; and the economic impact of global environmental change. The program also supports conferences and interdisciplinary research that strengthen the connection between economics and other social and behavioral sciences, mathematics, and statistics. The program funds research in almost every subfield of economics, including econometrics, economic history, finance, industrial organization, international economics, labor economics, public finance, macroeconomics, and mathematical economics. The annual target dates for submission of all proposals are January 15 and August 15. Transformations to Quality Organizations-Supports research aimed at building a knowledge base about the process of quality-oriented organizational change. Program guidelines require that the proposed research be planned with, endorsed by, and conducted within industrial or other organizations. Research teams must be multidisciplinary, with priority given to teams that include engineering, business, and social science faculty. All proposals must include a plan for disseminating research findings to practitioners in industry and the research and teaching communities. The target date for submission of research proposals is March 17, 1997. Infrastructure, Methods, and Science Studies Cluster Cross-Disciplinary Activities (CDA)-Provides information about various cross-directorate programs in which the SBER Division participates, including the Research Experiences for Undergraduates Sites Program. The program officer for CDA can provide information about the Foundation's special opportunities for minority and women investigators in the social and behavioral sciences. The officer also can provide information about initiatives for education in the social and behavioral sciences. Methodology, Measurement, and Statistics (MMS)-Supports fundamental research on the development, application, and extension of formal models and methodologies for social and behavioral research, including methods for improving measurement, and research on statistical methodology or statistical modeling that has direct implications on one or more of the social sciences. Also supported is research on methodological aspects of new or existing procedures for data collection; research to evaluate or compare existing data bases and data collection procedures; the collection of unique data bases with cross-disciplinary implications, especially when paired with developments in measurement or methodology; and the methodological infrastructure of social and behavioral research. The annual target dates for submission of research proposals are January 15 and August 15. Science and Technology Studies (STS)-Supports historical, philosophical, and social research regarding the character and development of science and technology; the nature of theory and evidence in different fields; and the social and intellectual construction of science and technology. Support is also given to research that examines the relationship between science, government, and other social institutions and groups, and processes of scientific innovation and change. The annual target dates for submission of all proposals are February 1 and August 1. Societal Dimensions of Engineering, Science, and Technology: Ethics and Values Studies, Research on Science and Technology (SDEST)- Combines two former programs in the SBE Directorate-Ethics and Values Studies (EVS) and Research on Science and Technology (RST). The EVS component focuses on developing and transmitting knowledge about ethical and value dimensions associated with the conduct and impacts of science, engineering, and technology. The RST component supports research to improve approaches and information for decision-making concerning management and direction of research, science, and technology. The annual target dates for submission of proposals are February 1 and August 1. (Refer to the program announcement, NSF 97-28, for more information.) Social and Political Sciences Cluster Law and Social Science Program-Supports scientific research on law and law-like systems of rules. This program encourages theoretically focused empirical studies aimed at advancing scientific knowledge about the impact of law; the nature, sources, and consequences of variations and changes in legal institutions and legal decision-making; and the dynamics of normative ordering in society. Included are studies of dispute processing, administrative and judicial decision-making, social control, compliance and deterrence, the regulatory role of law, legal and social change, and related inquiries on the relationship between legal processes and other social processes. The program supports cross-cultural research through its Global Perspectives on Sociolegal Studies initiative. The annual target dates for submission of all proposals are January 15 and August 15. Political Science Program-Supports social scientific research to improve the understanding of politics, political behavior, and political institutions and processes. This program supports rigorous empirical research of theoretical importance in American politics, political behavior, comparative politics, international relations, public choice and political economy, and other fields of political science. Research areas that have been supported recently include studies of activists in American political parties, information and issues in voting, congressional elections and campaigns, divided government, support for political institutions, electoral systems, nationalism and its relationship to ethnicity and language, the process of democratization, international political economy, and international conflict. The annual target dates for submission of all proposals are January 15 and August 15. Sociology Program-Supports research on problems of human social organization, demography, and processes of individual and institutional change. This program encourages theoretically focused empirical investigations aimed at improving the explanation of fundamental social processes. Included is research on organizations and organizational behavior, population dynamics, social movements, social groups, labor force participation, stratification and mobility, family, social networks, socialization, gender roles, and the sociology of science and technology. The annual target dates for submission of research proposals are January 15 and August 15; for Dissertation Improvement Awards, the dates are February 15 and October 15. Science Resources Studies The Division of Science Resources Studies (SRS) provides policy-makers, researchers, and other decision-makers with high quality data and analyses for making informed decisions about the Nation's science, engineering, and technology enterprise. To achieve this goal, the division performs the following. Describes the quantity and characteristics of the human, financial, and institutional resources devoted to science, engineering, and technology in the United States and compares these allocations to those of other nations. Specific topics examined include information on the education and employment of scientists and engineers and the funding and performance of research and development by the Federal Government, industry, and academia. Analyzes factors responsible for changes in the science and technology resource system and assesses the effects of those changes. Describes the outputs of the science and technology resource system. The results of the division's work are disseminated as NSF publications and are available in print or electronically on the SBE Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web at http://www.nsf.gov:80/sbe/start.htm. Examples of widely referenced SRS publications include Science and Engineering Indicators; Women, Minorities, and Persons with Disabilities in Science and Engineering; and National Patterns of R&D Resources. Additional data products such as microdata files are also made available to the research community. Most of the work of this division is performed internally and through contractual agreements with other federal agencies and appropriate non-federal organizations. Extramural analyses of the division's extensive data bases and other special studies are occasionally supported through external grant awards. Examples of appropriate topics are Studies designed to track the training and distribution of the Nation's scientists and engineers. Specific areas of interest include the current and future employment of scientists and technical personnel and the changing demographic characteristics of scientists and engineers. Collection, analysis, and dissemination of information on the characteristics and patterns of funding for research and development and for other scientific and technological activities. Studies of science and technology enterprise and innovation systems. This includes the development of special indicators, primarily of an output nature such as bibliometrics and studies of patents and licenses. Also of interest are modeling and simulations designed to better understand the distribution of human and financial resources for science and technology. Studies of the economic and social impact of science and technology. This includes, but is not limited to, studies on the returns to investment on research and development, business interests and investments in science and technology, and public understanding and attitudes toward science and technology. Collection and analysis of data on international science and technology investments, activities, and capabilities. More extensive and more current information is sought on foreign science and technology inputs, outputs, and impacts; the international flows of scientists and engineers; and indicators of science and technology globalization and interaction. For More Information For further information on programs in the SRS Division, or to obtain copies of publications, write the Division of Science Resources Studies, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 965, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or consult the SBE Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov:80/sbe/start.htm. International Programs Support of international activities is an integral part of NSF's mission to promote the progress of U.S. science and engineering. In particular, the Foundation recognizes the importance of enabling U.S. researchers and educators to advance their work through international collaboration and helping to ensure that future generations of U.S. scientists and engineers gain professional experience overseas early in their careers. Consistent with the international character of science and engineering, disciplinary programs throughout the Foundation offer support to U.S. scientists and engineers for the international aspects of their research that are judged to be important to the specific objectives of their work. The Division of International Programs (INT) has the special function of expanding and facilitating the international dimensions of NSF's mission by promoting new partnerships between U.S. scientists and engineers and their foreign colleagues. Most of these programs are organized on a regional or country basis. For detailed information about individual programs, deadlines, and application procedures, see the publication International Opportunities for Scientists and Engineers (NSF 96-14). Types of Activities Types of activities supported by INT include cooperative research involving a partnership between at least one U.S. principal investigator or research institution and a foreign counterpart investigator or institution; joint seminars and workshops; planning visits; International Research Fellow Awards for junior investigators; dissertation enhancement awards; and programs like the Summer Institutes in Japan and Korea that offer research experiences in different regions for graduate students. In addition to these activities, designed primarily for individuals and small groups, the division encourages U.S. organizations and institutions to consider projects aimed at establishing or strengthening existing relationships with their foreign counterparts for the purpose of advancing the international interests of U.S. science and engineering research and education. The division is particularly interested in projects that forge links between groups of investigators who are working in major U.S. research centers; similar groups in other countries that feature participation of graduate and postdoctoral investigators; and activities conducted by professional science and engineering societies to facilitate discipline-related cooperation through foreign counterpart organizations. Eligibility Proposals for international activities are eligible for consideration in all fields of science and engineering that are supported by the Foundation and must be submitted by a U.S. institution, except in the case of International Research Fellow Awards, which accept individual applications. Applicants for the latter must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Program Highlights The INT Division will accept proposals in any geographic area and for activities in any country that is not proscribed by the Department of State. Proposals in the following areas of current program emphasis are especially encouraged, although not exclusively: International Research Experiences for Junior Scientists and Engineers-Supports projects designed to enhance the international perspectives of the next generation of U.S. scientists and engineers. Examples include cooperative research activities involving undergraduates, graduate students, and postdoctoral investigators and are considered high priority. Also supported is an International Research Fellow Program for investigators who have received their Ph.D. degrees less than 6 years before the application date or who have equivalent experience beyond the master's degree. Science and Engineering Interactions with Developing Countries-Places particular emphasis on stimulating long-term science and engineering links with developing countries, particularly Africa, Latin America, and Asia. Research in these countries may be relatively difficult to initiate, and opportunities to establish collegial relationships have been relatively neglected by U.S. investigators. In recognition that isolation is a substantial barrier to scientific work in many developing countries, projects whose aim is to establish center-to-center links and networks, and those judged to be effective at improving scientific infrastructures and enhancing necessary conditions for effective long-term partnerships are encouraged. Opportunities for Science and Engineering Collaboration with Developed Countries-Supports projects designed to expand opportunities in science and engineering collaboration with developed countries such as Japan, Australia, and those in western Europe. Program development workshops and support for the relatively risky exploratory phases of research collaboration are emphasized. Through support of these, INT intends to promote access to excellent facilities and establish long-term research relationships that can ultimately compete for support outside the division on the basis of their potential to enhance the Nation's science and engineering capabilities. Eastern Europe, including the Newly Independent States-Widely recognizes the large stake that the United States has in encouraging the transformation of the science and technology systems of eastern Europe and, in particular, the Newly Independent States of the former Soviet Union. In addition to supporting cooperative research between individual investigators, INT encourages projects that aim to establish long-term links between U.S. science and engineering centers and centers of excellence in the region; regional as opposed to bilateral projects; and interactions mediated by professional science and engineering societies. A long-term objective is to assist scientists and engineers in the region to become fully participating members of the international scientific community. Regional and Multilateral Initiatives-Encourages collaborative research projects and exploratory workshops involving scientists from several foreign countries. Proposals that involve U.S. scientists and engineers in research activities of multilateral organizations such as the European Union (EU), the Organization of American States (OAS), or the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) are also encouraged. Research on International Aspects of Research and Technology-Supports research on the international aspects of research and technology. An important objective of this program is to increase the body of knowledge available on significant international research and technology issues that can serve as the basis for policy development in government, academia, and industry. For More Information For further information, write the Division of International Programs, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 935, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by e-mail, intpubs@nsf.gov, or by phone, 1-800-437-7408; or consult the SBE Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov:80/sbe/start.htm. Further information about requirements for specific geographical regions can be found in the publication International Opportunities for Scientists and Engineers (NSF 96-14). Detailed information on activities supported by the INT Division can also be obtained by contacting the relevant program officer for the regions or activities below. Africa, Near East, and South Asia, (703) 306-1707 The Americas, (703) 306-1706 East Asia and the Pacific, (703) 306-1704 Eastern Europe, including the Newly Independent States, (703) 306-1703 Japan and Korea, (703) 306-1701 Western Europe, (703) 306-1702 Research on International Aspects of Research and Technology, (703) 306-1711 International Research Fellow Awards, (703) 306-1706 Chapter 9 OTHER PROGRAM AND ACTIVITIES This chapter contains a partial listing of cross-directorate programs sponsored by NSF. Activities not mentioned here may appear elsewhere in this publication. Refer to the appropriate directorate. Major Research Instrumentation The Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) Program is designed to improve the condition of research equipment in our Nation's academic institutions. The program provides support for the acquisition or development of major research instrumentation. The initiative responds to needs identified by the academic science and engineering community for research instrumentation that is, in general, more expensive than that supported through other NSF programs and for improving the Nation's research and research training capabilities. For More Information For further information, write the Office of Science and Technology Infrastructure, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 1270, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1040, or by e-mail, mri@nsf.gov; or consult the OSTI Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov/od/osti/start.htm. Recognition Awards for the Integration of Research and Education This new activity represents one aspect of the Foundation's commitment to the core strategy of integrating research and education, as articulated in the strategic plan "NSF in a Changing World." The activity will make awards in fiscal year 1997 that recognize up to 10 research-intensive universities that have shown leadership, innovation, and achievement in their efforts to integrate research and education (specifically college freshman through Ph.D.) throughout their organization. For More Information For further information, write the Office of Science and Technology Infrastructure, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 1270, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1040, or by e-mail, recaward@nsf.gov; or consult the OSTI Home Page via World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov/od/osti/start.htm. International Programs Research and education in science and engineering benefit immensely from international cooperation. NSF promotes the internationalization of science and engineering in the following two ways: (1) It enables and encourages U.S. scientists, engineers, and their institutions to take advantage of opportunities to enhance their research and education programs through international cooperation. NSF also provides future generations of U.S. scientists and engineers with the experience and outlook they will need to function productively in an international research and education environment, through support for traveling fellowships and research activities at overseas sites. (2) Disciplinary programs throughout the Foundation offer support to U.S. scientists and engineers for the international aspects of their research that are judged to be important to the specific objectives of NSF-supported activities. The Division of International Programs (INT), part of the Directorate for Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences, works with all the disciplinary directorates and with all the crosscutting programs, to support international cooperative research activities in any field of science and engineering deemed eligible for NSF funding. INT's programs focus on promoting new partnerships between U.S. scientists and engineers and their colleagues in other countries and are generally organized on a regional or country basis. In addition, INT can cofund proposals submitted to any NSF research division and vice versa. For More Information A more detailed description of the Division of International Programs can be found in Chapter 8, "Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences." For further information, see the program announcement International Opportunities for Scientists and Engineers (NSF 96-14), or consult the SBE Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov:80/sbe/start.htm. Research Opportunity Awards Through the Research Opportunity Awards (ROA) component of the Research in Undergraduate Institutions (RUI) Program, the Foundation provides opportunities for faculty at institutions with limited research opportunities to participate in research under the aegis of NSF investigators at other institutions. Science teachers who teach middle and high school levels and who have a keen interest in research may also take part. Most teachers elect to participate during the summer months. Faculty members and teachers make their own arrangements with NSF investigators at the universities or laboratories that have been awarded or are currently applying for a Foundation grant. Prospective investigators who wish to employ faculty under these arrangements should include the additional requirements in the proposal budget. In the case of ongoing awards, grantees should contact the cognizant NSF program officer and request supplemental funding to permit participation by a visiting ROA researcher. Each case is judged on its own merits and grants are awarded at the discretion of the NSF program manager. The ROA visiting scientist becomes a temporary employee of the grantee institution where the principal investigator holds an appointment. Length of employment, the stipend, and other arrangements with respect to employment become matters of individual negotiation between the visiting scientist or engineer from the smaller institution, and the principal investigator at the host institution. For More Information For further information about the ROA subprogram, see the publication Research in Undergraduate Institutions (NSF 94-79), or write the cognizant Foundation program officer or the Senior Staff Associate for Cross-Directorate Programs, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 835, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1603; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Underrepresented Populations Activities Numerous studies and reports have documented that the United States is not attracting sufficient numbers of its students into science and engineering careers and that women, minorities, and persons with disabilities are presently underrepresented in all disciplines. Therefore, NSF has instituted a number of activities directed specifically at attracting these students to and retaining them in science and engineering, and at increasing the number of women, underrepresented minorities, and persons with disabilities who are full participants in the mainstream of the Nation's research activities. While some programs are centrally managed, many are distributed throughout the disciplinary directorates and managed by the cognizant program officers. Some divisions and directorates have special efforts that are described in their respective chapters. These activities are designed to attract women to science and engineering careers and enhance their participation in active research programs; significantly improve the quality of instruction and experience available in science and engineering for minority students at all educational levels; increase the numbers of students who are attaining degrees in science and engineering and pursuing careers in these areas; strengthen the science and engineering capabilities of institutions with significant minority enrollments; and build effective coalitions and alliances that employ the strengths of many institutions and organizations to accomplish these objectives. Women's Programs Because women are underrepresented in all disciplines, the Foundation has several activities that are directed specifically at increasing the number of women as full participants in the mainstream of the Nation's research enterprise. Research Planning Grants for Women (RPGW)-Are one-time limited awards for preliminary studies and other activities that help strengthen the investigator's planning and proposal-writing capabilities, thereby facilitating the development of more competitive NSF research proposals. The awardee is expected to submit a research proposal to NSF after completion of the planning grant. Eligibility Eligibility is limited to women who have doctorates or equivalent experience in an NSF-supported field; hold a faculty or research-related position, tenured or nontenured-at a U.S. institution; are U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents; and have not served as principal or co-principal investigators on independent federal research awards. Award Size and Duration Grants may be funded for up to 18 months and for a maximum of $18,000; they are not renewable. Deadlines The submission date varies, depending on what discipline of science the proposed research is in. For More Information For further information about the RPGW Program, see the publication Research Planning Grants and Career Advancement Awards for Women Scientists and Engineers (NSF 93-130), or write the cognizant program officer or the Senior Staff Associate for Cross-Directorate Programs, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 835, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1603; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Career Advancement Awards for Women (CAAW)-Expands the opportunity for women researchers to advance their careers. It is particularly appropriate for independent investigators whose careers are still evolving, and for experienced researchers who are changing research direction or who have had a significant research career interruption. For example, an investigator may wish to acquire new skills in an area that will expand her research capabilities or to develop an innovative research method in collaboration with another investigator. Eligibility A CAAW applicant should have some prior independent research experience as a principal investigator or project leader; have a doctorate or equivalent experience in an NSF-supported field; hold a faculty or research-related position at a U.S. institution; and be U.S. citizen, national, or permanent resident. Tenure is not an eligibility factor. Award Size and Duration The maximum dollar amount for these awards is $50,000, with a possible addition of up to $10,000 for equipment, if required, and is usually for a period of 12 months. Deadlines The submission date varies, depending on what discipline of science the proposed research is in. For More Information For further information about the CAAW Program, see the publication Research Planning Grants and Career Advancement Awards for Women Scientists and Engineers (NSF 93-130), or write the cognizant program officer or the Senior Staff Associate for Cross-Directorate Programs, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 835, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1603; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Minority Programs The Foundation has a number of special programs targeted to members of minority groups that are underrepresented in science and engineering. These groups include American Indians or Alaskan Natives (Native Americans), Blacks (African Americans), Pacific Islanders, and Hispanics. Such efforts include programs for students, faculty, and institutions. Research Opportunities for Minority Students and College Faculty-Encourages talented and promising minority students and college faculty to participate in ongoing research, thereby acting as a means of fostering the full participation of members of underrepresented minority groups in science and engineering. This activity utilizes supplements to existing research projects and encourages principal investigators with NSF awards to include these persons in their projects as research assistants. Interested parties make their own arrangements; there is no central referral source. Most awards are for summer support but arrangements may sometimes be made for the academic year. Eligibility A participant must be a member of an underrepresented minority group, and be a citizen or national of the United States. Eligible students may be at the high school or undergraduate level. Faculty should be employed at a U.S. academic institution, be working in an NSF-supported field, and should not have the resources to conduct the research at their own institution. Award Size and Duration Supplemental funding may be requested for each participant. Full-time summer stipends for high school students are expected to be at least $1,000, whereas those for undergraduates should be at least $2,000. Faculty summer support may not exceed two-ninths of the academic year salary. Indirect costs in the student-focused programs are limited to 25 percent of stipends. Support is available for a summer or, if funding is available, for part-time activities during the academic year. Procedures for Requesting Support A request for funding may be included in an initial proposal submission to NSF or in a request for a supplement to a current award. The request should include a statement indicating the process by which participants will be selected and a brief description of their participation in the project. Current NSF grantees are encouraged to request supplemental funding for their existing grants. The principal investigator at the host institution should contact the appropriate NSF program officer. Programs funded by NSF on the basis of the participants' level are as follows: for high school students, Research Assistantships for Minority High School Students; for undergraduate students, Research Experiences for Undergraduates; and for college faculty, Research Opportunity Awards. For More Information For further information on student-focused programs, see the publications Research Assistantships for Minority High School Students (NSF 89-39) and Research Experiences for Undergraduates (NSF 96-102). The Research Opportunity Awards for faculty are described fully in Research in Undergraduate Institutions (NSF 94-79). General inquiries can be made by writing the cognizant program officer or the Senior Staff Associate for Cross-Directorate Programs, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 835, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1603; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Minority Research Planning Grants and Career Advancement Awards-Is part of the Foundation's overall effort to give members of minority groups that are underrepresented in science and engineering greater access to scientific research support. The goal of this initiative is to increase the number of minority faculty in mainstream research. It does this through support of Minority Research Planning Grants and Minority Career Advancement Awards. Minority Research Planning Grants (MRPG) are one-time, limited awards for preliminary studies and other activities to facilitate the development of more competitive NSF research proposals. The awardee is expected to submit a research proposal to NSF's regular research program or to the Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Program after completion of the planning grant. (For a complete description of the CAREER Program, see Chapter 10, "Crosscutting Areas of Research and Education.") Eligibility Eligibility is limited to underrepresented minority scientists or engineers who are eligible for a regular NSF research award in their respective discipline; hold a faculty or research-related position, tenured or nontenured, at a U.S. institution; are a U.S. citizen or national; and have not served as principal or co-principal investigators on independent federal research awards. Award Size and Duration Awards may be funded for as long as 18 months and for as much as $18,000; they are not renewable. Deadlines The MRPG target dates vary with each discipline. Proposals should be directed to the appropriate disciplinary program through standard institutional channels. Minority Career Advancement Awards (MCAA) are geared toward expanding opportunities for minority researchers to advance their careers. It is particularly appropriate for independent investigators whose careers are still evolving, and for experienced researchers who are changing research direction or who have had a significant research career interruption. For example, an investigator may wish to acquire new skills in an area that will expand their research capabilities or to develop an innovative research method in collaboration with another investigator. Eligibility A MCAA applicant should be a member of an underrepresented minority group with some prior independent research experience as a principal investigator or project leader; be eligible for a regular NSF research award in their respective discipline; hold a faculty or research-related position at a U.S. institution; and be a U.S. citizen or national. Tenure is not an eligibility factor. Award Size and Duration The maximum dollar amount of these awards is $50,000 for a period of 12 months. An additional $10,000 may be requested for equipment. Deadlines The MCAA target dates vary with each discipline. Proposals should be directed to the appropriate NSF disciplinary program through standard institutional channels. For More Information For further information about the MRPG and MCAA Programs, see the publication Research Planning Grants and Career Advancement Awards for Minority Scientists and Engineers (NSF 94-147), or write the appropriate disciplinary program officer or the Senior Staff Associate for Cross-Directorate Programs, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 835, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1603; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Minority Postdoctoral Research Fellowships and Graduate Student Travel Awards in the Biological, Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences-These are one-time fellowship and travel awards available to recent Ph.D.s or those about to earn a doctoral degree in the eligible fields. Travel awards facilitate a visit to the potential host institution to discuss details of a postdoctoral appointment with the proposed mentor. Fellowships are portable and provide stipend and other support for up to 3 years of additional research training at a U.S. or foreign institution chosen by the fellow. Eligibility An applicant must be a member of an underrepresented minority group in science and engineering and a citizen, national, or permanent resident of the United States. Fields of study supported by the Directorates for Biological and Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences are eligible. Travel awards are available to graduate students who are within 18 months of the date they expect to receive their doctoral degree. Fellowships may be awarded to persons who have held their doctorates no more than 4 years prior to the application deadline or who will receive their degrees within the calendar year in which the fellowship is awarded. Fellowships will not be offered to those who will have had 2 full years of postdoctoral support prior to applying for the fellowship. Award Size and Duration Travel awards provide up to $3,000 for as many as three approved trips to institutions or meetings during the 12 months following the award. Fellowships may provide up to 3 years of support consisting of a $28,000 stipend, $4,600 of discretionary support, and a $2,400 institutional allowance annually. Deadlines Travel applications may be submitted to meet quarterly deadlines of January 1, April 1, July 1, or October 1. The annual deadline for Postdoctoral Research Fellowships is December 1. For More Information For more information, see the publication Minority Postdoctoral Research Fellowships and Supporting Activities (NSF 94-133), available from NSF Forms and Publications, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room P15, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or by phone, (703) 306-1130. General inquiries can be made by writing the Minority Postdoctoral Fellowships Program, Division of Biological Infrastructure, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 615, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1470; or consult the BIO Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov:80/bio/start.htm. Support for Persons with Disabilities NSF encourages persons with disabilities to participate fully in NSF-supported projects. In addition to support through the standard disciplinary programs, NSF supports the following program. Facilitation Awards for Persons with Disabilities-Provides funding for special assistance or equipment to enable persons with disabilities-investigators and other staff, including student research assistants-to work on an NSF project. See the program description in Chapter 3, "Education and Human Resources." NSF has Telephonic Device for the Deaf (TDD) and Federal Information Relay Service (FIRS) capabilities that enable individuals with hearing impairment to communicate with the Foundation about NSF programs, employment, or general information. The number for TDD is (703) 306-0090; for FIRS, 1-800-877-8339. To speak with someone in the Division of Human Resource Management (HRM), which has a separate TDD number, call (703) 306-0189. Undergraduate Activities Predominantly Undergraduate Institutions-Research Support The NSF encourages faculty research at predominantly undergraduate institutions for many reasons. For example, this research contributes to the knowledge-base in science and engineering; enhances the scientific and technical training of students by strengthening the environment in academic departments that are geared primarily toward undergraduate instruction; and promotes the integration of research and education in these undergraduate institutions. Predominantly undergraduate institutions include 2-year, 4-year, master's-level, and small doctoral institutions. Eligible institutions should have the following qualifications: grant baccalaureate degrees in NSF-supported fields or provide instructional programs for students who are pursuing such degrees with institutional transfers; have an undergraduate enrollment exceeding that of the graduate level; and have awarded no more than 20 Ph.D.s or D.Sci.s in all NSF-supported disciplines during the 2 previous academic years. Faculty members from these institutions are encouraged to request support through standard NSF disciplinary programs, Research Opportunity Awards (ROA), and, for faculty in the nondoctoral departments, Research in Undergraduate Institutions (RUI). For more information, see the program announcement Research in Undergraduate Institutions (NSF 94-79). Undergraduate Initiative In addition to programs and activities described in previous chapters, NSF has expanded support for undergraduate science and engineering. This initiative is Foundation-wide, with activities funded by the research directorates and by the Directorate for Education and Human Resources, which also plays a coordinating role through its Undergraduate Education and Human Resource Development Divisions. Under this initiative, the programs summarized below have been developed in the major areas of faculty, students, laboratories, and curriculum. In addition, there is a program supporting institution-wide reform activity that is fully described in the section on undergraduate activities in Chapter 3, "Education and Human Resources." Faculty The Undergraduate Faculty Enhancement Program (UFE)-Supports workshops and short courses that enable faculty members who teach undergraduates to gain experience with recent advances suitable for incorporation into undergraduate instruction. (See Chapter 3, "Education and Human Resources" for a description.) Research in Undergraduate Institutions (RUI)-Supports research and research equipment for faculty located in nondoctoral departments in predominantly undergraduate institutions. In addition to fulfilling the usual NSF requirements, RUI proposals must also describe the expected impact of the proposed research on the research and training environment of the department. This impact statement is considered in the proposal evaluation. Proposals for RUI are accepted in all research disciplines supported by the Foundation. They are evaluated and funded by the NSF program in which the proposed research falls. Within this context, RUI serves as a vehicle for eligible proposals and is fully integrated with the ongoing research activities of the Foundation. Eligibility Proposals may be submitted by faculty in departments that meet the following qualifications: the submitting institution must be predominantly undergraduate as defined above; and the department of the principal investigator must offer courses in an NSF-supported field that qualify for bachelor's degree credit, and may offer master's degrees but may not award doctorates or offer doctoral courses and supervise doctoral research. Nature of Support Awards may support research at the home institution including work in the field, or away from the home institution at a research university or a government or industrial laboratory. RUI also may be used to access the various disciplinary research equipment programs for acquisition of instrumentation essential for faculty research. The latter often requires multiple investigators and matching funds as specified by the disciplinary area. Award Criteria Eligible RUI proposals are evaluated on a competitive basis with all the other proposals submitted to the Foundation in the same area of research in accordance with the standard merit review procedure for that discipline. However, special RUI reviewer instructions are provided that emphasize the multifaceted RUI institution. NSF review criteria permit consideration of an RUI proposal in terms of its contribution to the infrastructure of science and engineering research, including training in the sponsoring department and institution. Thus reviewers are asked to especially consider the RUI impact (infrastructure) statement contained in the proposal as well as to recognize the potential impact of heavier teaching loads; the limited support personnel, facilities, and equipment; and possibly the smaller scale of the investigator's research. Deadlines Target and deadline dates vary by NSF program. RUI proposals should be submitted in accordance with these dates, which are published in the NSF Bulletin, a monthly publication produced by the Office of Legislative and Public Affairs. For More Information For further information, see the publication Research in Undergraduate Institutions (NSF 94-79). Applicants are urged to discuss proposed projects with the program officer in the appropriate discipline. General inquiries can be made by writing the Senior Staff Associate for Cross-Directorate Programs, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 835, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1603; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. Collaborative Research at Undergraduate Institutions (C-RUI)-Involves the Biological Sciences Directorate (BIO) and is designed to support multidisciplinary collaborative research groups at primarily undergraduate institutions. These groups are composed of 3 faculty members representing at least 2 disciplinary areas, and up to 10 undergraduates who will work on a project whose subject matter is primarily in the biological sciences and will require a cross-disciplinary approach. Further information can be found in the publication Collaborative Research at Undergraduate Institutions (NSF 96-116). Students Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU)-Is supported by all of the Foundation's disciplinary research programs and provides opportunities for undergraduate students to experience hands-on participation in research or related scholarly activities in areas of science, mathematics, and engineering. The Foundation supports researchers who involve students in either ongoing research (REU Supplements) or special programs (REU Sites). Eligibility All U.S. institutions conducting research in disciplines normally supported by NSF are eligible to apply. Proposals will be accepted from colleges and universities, nonacademic research institutions such as government or industrial laboratories, or combinations thereof. There is no restriction on the number of proposals that may be submitted per institution. A student participant must be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States and its possessions, and must be enrolled in a program leading to a bachelor's degree. Deadlines and Additional Information The annual deadline date for receipt of proposals for support of REU Sites is September 15. Award notifications will be made by late January. Proposals for REU Supplements will be accepted at any time but should be submitted as early in the fiscal year as possible, and require 2 to 3 months to process after receipt by NSF. For further information on REU, see the publication Research Experiences for Undergraduates (NSF 96-102), or direct inquiries to the relevant NSF research directorate. Laboratories Instrumentation and Laboratory Improvement-Through matching grants for the purchase of undergraduate laboratory equipment, this program supports the development of new and improved laboratory courses or experiments in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology. (See Chapter 3, "Education and Human Resources" for a description.) Curriculum Undergraduate Course and Curriculum Development in Engineering, Mathematics, and the Sciences-Supports the development of new or improved courses, curricula, delivery systems, and nationally disseminated products for the revitalization of the content, conduct, and quality of undergraduate education in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology. (See Chapter 3, "Education and Human Resources" for a description.) Advanced Technological Education-Is geared toward improving the quality of the technical workforce by supporting projects and a few centers. Leadership is from associate degree-granting colleges in partnership with 4-year colleges, universities, secondary schools, industry, business, and government. (See Chapter 3, "Education and Human Resources" for a description.) NSF Collaboratives for Excellence in Teacher Preparation-Provide major support for comprehensive change in the undergraduate education of future teachers, and support cooperative multiyear efforts to increase substantially, the quality and number of teachers well prepared in science and mathematics, especially members of underrepresented groups. (See Chapter 3, "Education and Human Resources" for a description.) For More Information For further information, write the appropriate research directorate or the Division of Undergraduate Education, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 835, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1670; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. For further information about the RUI and ROA Programs, write the Senior Staff Associate for Cross-Directorate Programs, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 835, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1603; or consult the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/.. Other Activities Doctoral Dissertation Research Improvement The Foundation awards grants to improve the scientific quality of doctoral dissertation research. These awards are made to allow doctoral candidates the opportunity for greater creativity in the gathering and analysis of data than would otherwise be possible. Grants are intended to cover research-related expenses such as field equipment, supplies, and travel to and from research sites. These awards are not fellowships and no stipend is included. Support is not provided for everyday personal expenses of the doctoral student; however, the student may concurrently receive such support from other sources. Dissertation proposals are judged on the basis of scientific content, importance, and originality. In addition, the doctoral candidate must show that the award will in fact improve the quality of the research. Note: Dissertation improvement awards are available only in certain disciplines, including the social and behavioral sciences and certain biological sciences. No dissertation improvement awards are made in the mathematical and physical sciences, the geosciences, engineering, cellular and molecular biology, or physiology. Eligibility/For More Information Each division that administers these grants treats applications in a different way. Doctoral students who wish to apply for a dissertation improvement grant should write directly to the appropriate research division(s). Small Grants for Exploratory Research (SGER) The Foundation funds small-scale exploratory work in all fields of science, engineering, and education supported by NSF, through brief proposals without the usual external review. Such work includes preliminary research on untested and novel ideas, ventures into emerging research areas, research requiring urgent access to specialized data, facilities, or equipment, or similar exploratory efforts likely to catalyze innovative advances. Programs may use up to 5 percent of their budgets for SGER awards. These awards are normally for 1 year and may not exceed $50,000, with the average amount depending on the particular program; they are not renewable. Only one copy of a brief proposal is required. NSF program officers are not required to seek advice from external reviewers before making their recommendations; therefore, principal investigators are strongly encouraged to contact the appropriate program officer to see if the proposed research would be suitable for SGER support, or if a fully reviewable proposal should be submitted. For More Information For further information, see the NSF Grant Proposal Guide (GPG) (NSF 95-27), available by writing NSF Forms and Publications, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room P15, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1130. Direct further inquiries to the appropriate research division. Information for Small Businesses NSF programs are of interest mainly to small businesses with strong capabilities in scientific or engineering research or in science-based innovative technology. Competition for awards from NSF is intense, and only high-quality research proposals are supported. Most NSF funds are obligated through grants to support unsolicited research proposals that are judged scientifically meritorious in merit review; note that these are grants, not procurements. Small firms may submit proposals under most of the programs identified in this Guide. Although NSF programs mainly fund research in academic institutions, proposals from the commercial sector including those from small research firms are also supported. Most NSF research awards to small businesses are made through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program. SBIR is conducted pursuant to the Small Business Research and Development Enhancement Act of 1992 (P.L. 102-564). Grant proposals under this program are solicited by a formal SBIR Program solicitation issued annually. (See Chapter 4, "Engineering" for a description.) When compared with those at other federal departments and agencies, procurement or contract opportunities at NSF are quite limited. The Foundation generally does not maintain bidders' lists, and competitive procurement opportunities are normally publicized in the Commerce Business Daily. Opportunities for small companies exist in the subcontracting activities of the NSF's prime contractors that manage other major research facilities. Some of these facilities are identified elsewhere in this Guide. NSF has two offices that provide information and serve as referral points for small businesses interested in the Foundation's research or procurement opportunities. These offices do not administer any individual grant, contract, or procurement program. The Office of Small Business Research and Development offers information and guidance on NSF programs and research opportunities to research- and technology-based small firms. The Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization also provides information and guidance to small, minority-, and women-owned companies seeking procurement opportunities to provide NSF or its major contractors with goods or services. For information on both of these offices, write the Directorate for Engineering, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 505, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1390; or consult the ENG Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.eng.nsf.gov/. NSF Postdoctoral Fellowships NSF sponsors 15 fellowship programs for postdoctoral and senior postdoctoral research in science and engineering. These fellowships are in specific disciplines and are sponsored by the appropriate NSF organization. Contact the appropriate division listed below for more information about these fellowships. Fellowship/Contact Joint NSF/Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Postdoctoral Research Fellowships in Molecular Evolution Molecular Evolution Postdoctoral Fellowships Biological Infrastructure National Science Foundation 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Rm. 615 Arlington, VA 22230 Tel: (703) 306-1469 Minority Postdoctoral Research Fellowships in Biological, Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences BIO Minority Research Fellowships Biological Infrastructure National Science Foundation 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Rm. 615 Arlington, VA 22230 Tel: (703) 306-1469 SBE Minority Research Fellowships Cross-Directorate Activities SBER, Room 995 National Science Foundation 4201 Wilson Boulevard Arlington, VA 22230 Tel: (703) 306-1733 Postdoctoral Research Fellowships in Biosciences Related to the Environment Postdoctoral Research Fellowships in Biosciences Related to the Environment Biological Infrastructure National Science Foundation 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Rm. 615 Arlington, VA 22230 Tel: (703) 306-1469 CISE Postdoctoral Research Associates in Computational Science and Engineering Division of Advanced Scientific Computing National Science Foundation 4201 Wilson Boulevard Arlington, VA 22230 Tel: (703) 306-1970 CISE Postdoctoral Research Associates in Experimental Science Office of Cross-Disciplinary Activities National Science Foundation 4201 Wilson Boulevard Arlington, VA 22230 Tel: (703) 306-1980 NSF Postdoctoral Fellowships in Science, Mathematics, Engineering, and Technology Education NSF-PFSMETE Program Division of Graduate Education National Science Foundation 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 907 Arlington, VA 22230 Tel: (703) 306-1697 E-mail: PFSMETE@nsf.gov NSF-NATO Postdoctoral Fellowships in Science and Engineering NATO Postdoctoral Fellowship Program Division of Graduate Education National Science Foundation 4201 Wilson Boulevard Arlington, VA 22230 Tel: (703) 306-1630 Earth Sciences Postdoctoral Research Fellowships Division of Earth Sciences National Science Foundation 4201 Wilson Boulevard Arlington, VA 22230 Tel: (703) 306-1550 Ridge Interdisciplinary Global Experiments (RIDGE) Postdoctoral Fellowship Program Division of Ocean Sciences National Science Foundation 4201 Wilson Boulevard Arlington, VA 22230 Tel: (703) 306-1586 Mathematical Sciences Postdoctoral Research Fellowships (with Research Instructorship option) Infrastructure Program Division of Mathematical Sciences National Science Foundation 4201 Wilson Boulevard Arlington, VA 22230 Tel: (703) 306-1870 E-mail: msprf@nsf.gov Mathematical Sciences University/Industry Postdoctoral Research Fellowships Infrastructure Program Division of Mathematical Sciences National Science Foundation 4201 Wilson Boulevard Arlington, VA 22230 Tel: (703) 306-1870 E-mail: msprf@nsf.gov International Research Fellow Awards Research Fellow Awards Division of International Programs National Science Foundation 4201 Wilson Boulevard Arlington, VA 22230 Tel: (703) 306-1706 Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) Postdoctoral Awards for U.S. Researchers JSPS Postdoctoral Awards Division of International Programs National Science Foundation 4201 Wilson Boulevard Arlington, VA 22230 Tel: (703) 306-1701 Email: NSFJinfo@nsf.gov Long- and Medium-Term Research Visits for Scientists and Engineers at Foreign Centers of Excellence Long- and Medium-Term Research Visits Division of International Programs National Science Foundation 4201 Wilson Boulevard Arlington, VA 22230 Tel: (703) 306-1710 Science and Technology Agency of Japan Postdoctoral Awards for U.S. Researchers STA Postdoctoral Awards Division of International Programs National Science Foundation 4201 Wilson Boulevard Arlington, VA 22230 Tel: (703) 306-1701 E-mail: NSFJinfo@nsf.gov Chapter 10 CROSSCUTTING AREAS OF RESEARCH AND EDUCATION NSF Activities in Crosscutting Areas of Research and Education The Foundation invests a major portion of its resources in a number of well-defined areas of national need, which are organized and focused around specific national objectives identified by the President's National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) and the Foundation's own planning process. The fundamental nature, the quality, and the educational impact of the work supported in these areas are consistent with those of all activities supported by the Foundation, and they share the following goals: Expand the knowledge base; Improve the education and training of future scientists, engineers, and the general citizenry; Stimulate transfer of the knowledge between academe and the public and private sectors; Bring the perspective of many disciplines to bear on complex problems of national need; and Enhance components of the infrastructure supporting research and education, including access to the expanded knowledge base. NSF also aims to foster the natural connections among the different areas, because these interconnections are critical to success. They effectively allow the Foundation to increase the return on its investment in these areas, to reduce duplicative efforts, and to coordinate the allocation of its resources. The following sections provide an overview of activities in each of the defined areas of national need currently supported by NSF. These overviews describe the goals and objectives of the activities in each area and the NSF directorates, divisions, and programs involved. In addition to these well-defined areas, NSF accepts unsolicited proposals that integrate ideas and techniques across its existing program lines. Proposers are urged to contact the most relevant staff at the program, division, or directorate level prior to submission of a proposal to ensure that all pertinent programs participate in the review process. Placing the words "requires consideration by more than one program" in the box of the NSF cover sheet labeled "For Consideration by NSF Organization Unit(s)" prior to listing those programs, will help NSF develop mechanisms for assessing its performance in handling unsolicited interdisciplinary proposals. Advanced Materials and Processing The overall goals of the Advanced Materials and Processing Program (AMPP) are to enhance the materials knowledge base and apply it to problems of national importance and to provide interdisciplinary education and training that will prepare future scientists and engineers for careers in universities, government, and industry. AMPP has three objectives: (1) to synthesize novel materials; (2) to advance the understanding of the behavior and properties of materials; and (3) to develop processes to produce, modify, and shape materials. The program supports individual and small group projects, interdisciplinary centers, and national synchrotron, neutron scattering, and high magnetic field facilities and major instrumentation for shared use. AMPP fosters interagency collaborations and promotes materials-related activities through university/industry/government consortia. Research under AMPP seeks to provide an improved understanding of the interrelationships among synthesis, processing, and performance of materials, and a description of their structure, composition, and properties at the atomic, molecular, microscopic, and macroscopic levels. AMPP includes research on the following classes of materials: metals; ceramics; polymers; composites; and electronic, optical/photonic, biomolecular, magnetic, and superconducting materials. AMPP is an important partner in NSF activities that link research and education, including participation in the CAREER, GOALI, and REU Programs. BIO, CISE, EHR, ENG, GEO, MPS, and SBE support or contribute to AMPP-related research through appropriate programs in these directorates. AMPP represents a collaborative effort among these directorates, which coordinate NSF's overall support for materials-related research and education, and help facilitate the review and management of cross-directorate research and education projects. For More Information For further information, contact Dr. Andrew Lovinger, Senior Staff Associate, Division of Materials Research, MPS Directorate, (703) 306-1812; or Dr. John Hurt, Program Director, Engineering Research Centers Program, ENG Directorate, (703) 306-1383. Biotechnology The NSF is one of 12 federal agencies participating in a government-wide effort under the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC), to coordinate and maximize the impact of the federal investment in research in biotechnology. Analysis of the biotechnology research programs and budgets of these 12 federal agencies shows that the pattern of federal support for biotechnology research has left important gaps in the knowledge base underlying future applications in several critical areas, including biotechnology related to the environment, manufacturing/bioprocessing, agriculture, research on the social impact of biotechnology, and the infrastructure and training specific to biotechnology research in these areas. NSF internal working groups and outside advisors have identified six areas of interdisciplinary biotechnology research in which NSF can make major contributions. Environmental Biotechnology-Researches mechanisms that maintain ecosystem integrity and function; use of individual organisms, groups of interacting organisms, and their products for environmental rehabilitation; whole ecosystem bioremediation; exploration of organismal diversity from different habitats; and development of bases of information on properties of different microbes. Plant (Agricultural) Biotechnology-Uses techniques of molecular biology to enhance understanding of basic plant biology such as flower initiation; regulation of gene expression in plants; elucidation of the metabolic pathways leading to production of useful plant chemicals; mechanisms by which plants respond to environmental signals and stress; and how plants interact with pests, pathogens, and symbionts. Bioprocessing and Bioconversion-Researches the efficient production of commercially valuable molecules such as specialty chemicals and biopolymers; conversion of low-cost raw materials into useful products such as biomass or low-grade ores; studies of the physiology, biochemistry, and genetics of suitable organisms; biosensor development; and design and scale-up of bioreactor systems and of separation and purification systems. Bioelectronics and Bionetworks-Develops techniques, materials, and devices based on computational and molecular transduction mechanisms that work in living systems; and develops stable biosensors and voltage-sensing devices, methodology for interfacing neurons and electronic circuitry, and instrumentation based on principles of biological systems. Marine Biotechnology-Fundamental studies to elucidate the molecular genetics, biochemistry, and cell biology of marine organisms, and their products and processes; applications of molecular biology techniques to an understanding of the role of marine organisms in the global carbon and elemental cycles; studies on molecular adaptations of organisms from extreme environments such as deep-sea hydrothermal vents and polar environments; use of marine viruses in genetic engineering; biodegradation of toxic substances; and studies of nutrition, physiology, reproduction, defense mechanisms, and genetics of economically important fish and shellfish. Social and Economic Dimensions of Biotechnology-Studies of the processes of innovation, management, and dissemination of biotechnology; mutual influences of biotechnology innovation and social, economic, and legal structures and processes; effects of biotechnology innovation on labor force composition, educational needs, national productivity, international competitiveness, and international relations; identification and management of risks and benefits of biotechnology; and examinations of public opinion, acceptance, and ethical considerations in biotechnology research, development, and application. Research infrastructure and human resources for biotechnology in these areas are important components of the biotechnology effort. NSF's approach to this crosscutting area is interdisciplinary, with an emphasis on fundamental and "proof-of-concept" research, training, instrumentation, research resources, and university/industry cooperation. The BIO, ENG, GEO, MPS, and SBE Directorates and OPP contribute to the biotechnology area. A variety of funding modes is utilized including individual investigator awards, interdisciplinary groups, and centers. In supporting biotechnology research, NSF continues to rely on the scientific and engineering communities to develop specific projects within the six identified areas. For More Information For further information contact the following: In the BIO Directorate: -Dr. Maryanna Henkart, Deputy Director, Division of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, (703) 306-1440. In the MPS Directorate: -Dr. George Rubottom, Deputy Director, Division of Chemistry, (703) 306-1851. In the ENG Directorate: -Dr. Fred Heineken, Program Director, Biotechnology Program, (703) 306-1319. Civil Infrastructure The U.S. has an estimated $20 trillion investment in civil infrastructure systems (CIS). The Civil Infrastructure Systems (CIS) area addresses the need to develop fresh strategies for the engineering and management of infrastructure systems, including both newly constructed and existing facilities that have degraded with time, neglect, misuse, or excessive demand. In partnership with academe and industry, NSF contributes to the intelligent renewal of civil infrastructure systems through the support of research and education that focuses on the scientific and engineering advancements needed both to sustain and to enhance civil infrastructure systems. Life-cycle infrastructure engineering and management leadership are needed to effect new designs and techniques, more durable materials, new integrated network systems with improved controls and communications, and enhanced decision-making and management processes. Such activity demands the integrated participation of physical, mathematical, materials, and social scientists, engineers, economists, and policy-makers, both domestically and internationally. The goals of this effort are (1) to enrich the science and engineering knowledge base that can advance the understanding, assessment, and intelligent renewal of civil infrastructure systems; (2) to encourage the integration, application, and transfer of knowledge that will contribute to intelligent infrastructure renewal; and (3) to integrate research with education and training to produce the next generation of engineers, scientists, and others who will design, build, maintain, and use the civil infrastructure of the future. NSF's strategy for CIS includes support of research by all directorates via unsolicited investigator-initiated proposals submitted through existing programs. Situations where disciplinary boundaries can be crossed to stimulate interactions create particularly effective opportunities for small groups. Multiple-investigator and multidisciplinary research proposals may be submitted to existing centers programs such as Engineering Research Centers, Science and Technology Centers, and Industry/University Cooperative Research Centers. To realize the CIS goals, emphasis is placed on developing new system integration approaches in the following key areas. (1) Deterioration science and approaches to accelerated testing of new high performance CIS materials, including research that extends knowledge of the processes and rates governing how materials and systems break down and wear out during normal use and when subjected to natural and technological hazards. (2) Assessment technologies necessary to evaluate the condition of the infrastructure system, including equipment and techniques necessary for intelligent performance sensing and monitoring, establishment of parameters for performance evaluation and controlling systems for safety protection, and effective management of our infrastructure systems. (3) Renewal engineering, including the application of new materials and development of technologies to extend and enhance the useful life of CIS; new approaches for integrated planning and information management; and life-cycle approaches to CIS sustainable development that include new concepts for adaptive systems, and that consider the entire facility through planning, design, construction, operation, maintenance, repair, retrofit, recycling, replacement, demolition, and disposal. (4) Institutional effectiveness and productivity research that focuses on effective decision-making for CIS, including new approaches for decision process and optimization modeling that involve economists, engineers, mathematical scientists, natural scientists, social scientists, and policy-makers. The impact of CIS investments and regulation on national, regional, and local productivity and on the economic and social well-being of the public also needs to be evaluated. In addition to disciplinary-based research, an NSF working group coordinates interdisciplinary CIS research programs directed toward new understanding of system performance and guidance in support of resource allocation decisions in investment and management of civil infrastructure systems. The CIS Working Group periodically develops program announcements in targeted interdisciplinary research areas. For example, in fiscal year 1995, awards were made for CIS research under the program "Systemic Change in Urban Infrastructure." (For more information, see the ENG Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.eng.nsf.gov/.) During fiscal year 1997, the NSF Web site will be updated to include a portfolio listing of CIS active grants. This listing may be useful to identify appropriate program directors for specific questions on discipline-based research. For more specific information on the CIS Program at NSF, contact: -Dr. J. W. Harrington, Program Director in the Division of Social, Behavioral, and Economic Research, by phone, (703) 306-1754, or by e-mail, jwharrin@nsf.gov; -Dr. Priscilla P. Nelson, Program Director in the Civil and Mechanical Systems Division and coordinator of the CIS Working Group, by phone, (703) 306-1361, or by e-mail, pnelson@nsf.gov; -Dr. Joy Pauschke, Program Director in the Engineering Education and Centers Division, by phone, (703) 306-1380, or by e-mail, jpauschk@nsf.gov; -Dr. Lance Haworth, Acting Executive Officer in the Division of Materials Research, by phone, (703) 306-1815, or by e-mail, lhaworth@nsf.gov; or -Dr. Randall Soderquist in the Division of International Programs by phone, (703) 306-1701, or by e-mail, rsoderqu@nsf.gov. Environment and Global Change As an agency whose mission is to support fundamental research and education in all science and engineering disciplines, NSF seeks to support a diverse set of activities that will enhance the understanding of complex environmental and global change processes. To accomplish this goal, NSF's Environment and Global Change activities support basic disciplinary research and focused interdisciplinary research activities. NSF's Environment and Global Change activities seek to broaden the scientific understanding of our environment through support of investigator-initiated research and research collaborations that fall within the following categories. Understanding Fundamental Processes-Most research NSF supports in the areas of environment and global change is focused on understanding the fundamental processes operating on physical, biological, and human systems. These analyses include disciplinary and interdisciplinary efforts that broaden our knowledge about particular systems and interactions among different systems. Examples include understanding the fundamental processes that determine biological diversity, ecosystem dynamics, atmospheric chemistry, chemical and biogeochemical dynamics, Earth system history, solar influences, oceanic circulation processes, and political or economic institutional change. Observation Systems and Data Management-To support and facilitate the research needs of scientists who are interested in environmental and global change research, NSF funds long-term observation systems and data management efforts. These activities include long-term observation platforms such as Long-Term Ecological Research sites, seismic networks, and other facilities and activities geared toward promoting the continuous and continued collection of relevant data sets. NSF also funds the maintenance and management of important data bases such as climatic data bases at the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR); the maintenance and management of samples and materials needed for research such as ice cores and archaeological artifacts; and other networks or activities that encourage access, maintenance, and sharing of data. Modeling Activities-Enhances the understanding of physical, biological, and human systems and processes, by supporting diverse modeling activities. These activities include research on modeling approaches, model enhancement, and model integration such as economic modeling, vegetative modeling, climate modeling, and a program focused on methods and models for integrated assessment. Evaluating Options for Responding to Global Change-NSF supports research and analyses of responses to global and environmental changes. Examples of these activities include mitigation and risk assessment approaches; technologies to avoid, alleviate, or minimize environmental damage; the study of economic evaluation and impact methodologies; and analysis of tools and options for decision-makers. Enhancement of International Research Infrastructure-NSF's Environment and Global Change Programs involve collaborations, scientific field experiments, research networks, and coordination activities that link U.S. scientists and educators with their international counterparts. NSF has lead responsibility for the Inter-American Institute for Global Change Research (IAI) within the United States. For additional information on IAI, contact Dr. Paul Filmer, Program Director of IAI, at (703) 306-1515. In addition to participating in international research efforts, NSF plays an active role in the U.S. Global Change Research Program, an 18-agency, coordinated federal effort that focuses on activities in the areas of the environment and global change. This interagency scientific research program was established by the Global Change Research Act of 1990 to enhance research aimed at understanding and responding to global change, including the cumulative effects of human activities and natural processes on the environment. NSF also has been a major catalyst for interagency activities dealing with other important environmental issues. These activities cut across a broad spectrum of scientific disciplines to address issues related to the preservation, management, and enhancement of the environment. Specific areas of interest include air quality, biodiversity and ecosystem dynamics, environmental technology, natural disaster reduction, water and watersheds research, and risk assessment. The BIO, ENG, GEO, MPS, and SBE Directorates and OPP all contribute to Environment and Global Change activities. The EHR Directorate also funds many educational activities that complement the Environment and Global Change Research foci. For More Information For further information on NSF Environment and Global Change activities, including information on focused global change research programs, contact Leila Harris, Coordinator for NSF Environment and Global Change Activities by phone, (703) 306-0891, or by e-mail, lharris@nsf.gov. Information on environment and global change research opportunities, NSF contacts, and awards related to Environment and Global Change are available on the EGC Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov/stratare/egch/envresop.htm. Special announcements of funding opportunities for fiscal year 1997 are expected to be issued for the NSF Methods and Models for Integrated Assessment (MMIA) Program, the NSF/ NOAA Earth System History Program, the NSF Environmental Geochemistry and Biogeochemistry Program, and the NSF/EPA Partnership for Environmental Research. As soon as these or other announcements become available, they will be posted on the EGC Home Page. NSF also participates in a joint program on bioremediation with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Office of Naval Research (ONR), and the Department of Energy (DOE). Links to future announcements of opportunity as part of this program will similarly be accessible on the EGC Home Page. Researchers may also subscribe to the NSF Environment and Global Change electronic mailing list by sending a message with complete address and contact information to env-gc-ext-request@nsf.gov. High Performance Computing and Communications The High Performance Computing and Communications (HPCC) Program-with its recent expansion to include information infrastructure-supports and elaborates on the federal HPCC Program goals. These include the extension of U.S. technological leadership in science and engineering; and the acceleration of wide dissemination and application of high performance computing and communications technologies. The NSF has long supported computing and communications, and it is on these historic strengths that the HPCC Program has been structured. The following are the goals of the HPCC Program: Generate knowledge with the potential for radically changing the state of high performance computing and communications capabilities, information infrastructure technologies, and the future conduct of science, engineering, and education. Create a cadre of scientists, engineers, and technical personnel who are knowledgeable about computational science and computer science and engineering, and who will implement these new capabilities in academia and industry. Create interdisciplinary teams of scientists and engineers in related fields to create innovative computational and communications technologies that support overarching engineering, scientific, and societal goals. Research and prototype new generations of scalable parallel high performance computers and software technologies to achieve Grand and National Challenges-the performance of one trillion computer calculations per second. Research and prototype national research and education networking services and capabilities that will connect universities, high schools, research laboratories, and libraries at speeds of up to one billion bits per second. Encourage partnerships that will enhance innovation and technology transfer, thereby promoting U.S. productivity and industrial competitiveness. Support fundamental research that will make advanced computing and communications information infrastructure available to a larger segment of the society; solve information-intensive national challenges; and advance educational technologies. To support these goals, the HPCC Program is divided into the following three components. (1) The Research component addresses discipline-specific and multidisciplinary activities that are focused on enabling computing and communications required to allow scientists and engineers to effectively utilize emerging high performance computing and communications. This component supports research that focuses on technologies that will better enable the global information infrastructure of the 21st century by providing support for individual investigators through NSF-wide research programs, and for interdisciplinary groups that involve virtually every research area at NSF. (2) The Research Infrastructure component provides and demonstrates state-of-the-art HPCC technology through various networks, the Supercomputer Centers, the Metacenter Regional Alliances, and various instrumentation programs that are geared toward enabling researchers in all disciplines. (3) The Education and Training component increases the pool of citizens who are capable of utilizing and contributing to the emerging national opportunities for HPCC technologies in all segments of society. It does this through activities in the EHR and CISE Directorates and by support of graduate students and postdoctorals on research awards. The HPCC Program intersects to all NSF crosscuts, both through the Research Infrastructure activities, and through the results of enabling computing and communications research and education. The BIO, CISE, EHR, ENG, GEO, MPS, and SBE Directorates and OPP contribute to the HPCC Program. For More Information For further information, contact Dr. Robert Voigt, HPCC Coordinator, (703) 306-1900. For more specific information concerning the HPCC Program, see the Supplement to the President's fiscal year 1996 Budget titled High Performance Computing and Communications: Foundation for America's Information Future and the HPCC fiscal year 1996 Implementation Plan. This information is available from the HPCC National Coordination Office by phone, (301) 402-4100, or by e-mail, nco@hpcc.gov; or consult the HPCC Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.hpcc.gov. Manufacturing NSF's Manufacturing (MAN) activities support the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) interagency effort to build, sustain, and extend U.S. leadership in the manufacturing sector. The goal of MAN is to discover new and fundamental knowledge to enable the development of advanced manufacturing technologies that enhance the performance of U.S. manufacturing industries. This mission is to be achieved through coordinated government, industry, and university programs that accomplish the following broad goals: enhance the human resource base with education and training programs; promote environmentally conscious manufacturing; support a vigorous interagency research and development (R&D) program for advanced manufacturing technology; and accelerate the development and application of advanced manufacturing techniques by the entire manufacturing sector. Manufacturing is a highly integrative activity, and manufacturing-related problems are among the most complex interdisciplinary problems faced by modern society. NSF has a wide range of programs that allow it to address this complexity within the context of a broad and coherent interdisciplinary research program. The Foundation concentrates its efforts on developing the fundamental science and engineering knowledge base that underlies manufacturing technology, management, and education and training, as well as technology transfer, diffusion, and implementation. Particular focus is given to enhancing the institutional, physical, and human resources that constitute the manufacturing research and education infrastructure. MAN is a collaborative effort among the CISE, ENG, MPS, and SBE research directorates. Its research agenda is primarily carried out through the support of unsolicited investigator-initiated research in addition to research at manufacturing-related, university-based research centers. As the need arises, NSF will issue program announcements inviting proposal submissions in targeted research areas. For More Information For further information, contact Dr. Bruce Kramer, Director, Division of Design, Manufacture, and Industrial Innovation, (703) 306-1330. Modeling of Biological Systems-The Interface of Biology, Mathematics, and the Physical Sciences Characterization of biological systems has reached an unparalleled level of detail. To organize this detail and arrive at a better fundamental understanding of life processes, it is imperative that powerful conceptual tools from mathematics and the physical sciences be applied to frontier problems in biology. Modeling of biological systems is an important partner of experimental work. All facets of biology-environmental, organismic, cellular, and molecular-are accessible to chemical, physical, and mathematical approaches. The Foundation encourages increased collaboration among physical scientists, mathematicians, and biologists in addressing biological problems. Most NSF resources for biosciences have been directed toward experimental investigation. An enhanced cooperative effort to emphasize theoretical approaches will provide new conceptual frameworks for experimentalists and attract scientists with diverse skills and training to foster multidisciplinary cooperation in the study of biological problems. All divisions in the BIO Directorate and the Divisions of Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Materials Research located in the MPS Directorate, are coordinating efforts to provide a focal point for encouraging multidisciplinary modeling proposals. For More Information For further information, contact the following. In the BIO Directorate: -Dr. Kamal Shukla, Division of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, (703) 306-1444; -Dr. Raymon Glantz, Division of Integrative Biology and Neurosciences, (703) 306-1416; -Dr. Mark Courtney, Division of Environmental Biology, (703) 306-1481; and -Dr. Karl Koehler, (703) 306-1469, or Dr. Thomas Quarles, (703) 306-1470, Division of Biological Instrumentation and Resources. In the MPS Directorate: -Dr. Bruce Taggart, Division of Materials Research, (703) 306-1834; -Dr. Robert Eisenstein, Division of Physics, (703) 306-1897; and -Dr. Michael Steuerwalt, Division of Mathematical Sciences, (703) 306-1878. Science, Mathematics, Engineering, and Technology Education Through the Science, Mathematics, Engineering, and Technology Education (SMETE) initiative, NSF is able to improve science, mathematics, engineering, and technology education for all U.S. citizens. It does this by providing sustained leadership in the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC), a coordinated federal interagency effort, one of whose areas of focus is the improvement of education in these areas. NSF SMETE goals are to improve science, mathematics, and engineering performance for all U.S. citizens at all education levels; to ensure that U.S. precollege students will be first in the world in science and mathematics achievement; to ensure both a strong elementary, secondary, and postsecondary instructional workforce and a technical workforce; and to improve public science literacy. To achieve these goals, SMETE has identified seven priority areas: (1) reforming elementary, secondary, and undergraduate education; (2) promoting interdisciplinary and intersectoral graduate education; (3) promoting public understanding of science and lifelong learning; (4) enhancing technology education; (5) ensuring human resource development; (6) developing an adequate science and technology workforce; and (7) expanding postdoctoral education. The above priority areas are undergirded by the following crosscutting, enabling activities: (1) research on education, policy, and practice; (2) ensured accountability through program evaluation; and (3) communication. These goals and priority areas provide the focus for the Foundation's activities that are conducted primarily by the EHR Directorate, with other activities headed by the BIO, CISE, EHR, ENG, GEO, MPS, and SBE Directorates and OPP. Described below are key activities undertaken in the priority areas. Elementary and Secondary Education-Supports the reform of science, mathematics, and technology education for grades pre-K through 12, and includes the establishment and implementation of challenging curricula, teaching, and assessment standards; the assessment and upgrading of instructional materials and curricula; teacher enhancement efforts that improve the disciplinary and pedagogical skills of the existing teaching workforce; reform of the preservice teacher science and mathematics education system; student support in education and workforce transitions; and strategies and materials that engage parents in their children's education and activities that stimulate parents as active proponents for quality, universally available science, mathematics, and technology education. Organizational and Systemic Reform-Focuses on broad and deep reform designed to change the basic education system-specifically, to promote systemic reform. The three major programs in this area are Statewide Systemic Initiatives (SSI), Urban Systemic Initiatives (USI), and Rural Systemic Initiatives (RSI). They are designed to stimulate States, major cities, and rural areas, respectively, to initiate comprehensive efforts that achieve lasting improvements in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology education systems across the Nation through the use of new paradigms that require fundamental change. Undergraduate Education Reform-Provides a critical link between the Nation's schools and entry into our society and the workforce, both of which are increasingly based on science and technology. Activities in this area include -comprehensive and systemic reform of science, mathematics, engineering, and technology education; -developing courses and curricula focused on comprehensive change-calculus, mathematics across the curriculum, engineering coalitions, and introductory chemistry-and opportunities for change in science and engineering; -instrumentation and laboratory improvement; -faculty enhancement through both research opportunities and opportunities that combine scientific and pedagogical components; -promoting exemplary improvement in technician education through partnerships among community colleges, 4-year colleges, universities, schools, and industry; -teacher preparation; -research experiences for undergraduate students; and -other comprehensive reform activities. Human Resource Development-As part of its commitment to the development of scientific and technological human and institutional resources and an adequately trained workforce for the future, NSF has implemented separate and comprehensive programs for groups underrepresented in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology fields, including minorities, women and girls, and persons with disabilities. These programs are designed to increase the participation of groups underrepresented in scientific and technical careers. Another area of emphasis is strengthening the research and education capabilities of academic institutions with significant minority student enrollments. Programs for minorities are directed toward achieving the overall goal of producing 50,000 earned baccalaureate and 2,000 doctoral degree recipients in these fields annually by the year 2000. Graduate and Postdoctoral Education-NSF provides support to maintain U.S. preeminence in graduate and postdoctoral education by providing both scientific and technological advances and an adequate supply of scientists and engineers. This includes support of individuals especially prepared in new and emerging disciplinary and interdisciplinary activities, and intersectoral arrangements that recognize developing partnership opportunities. Support is made in the form of graduate student fellowships and also through dissertation awards for research-related expenses in the biological, social, behavioral, and economic sciences. In addition, NSF provides postdoctoral fellowships in computational science and engineering and experimental computer science; atmospheric, earth, and ocean sciences; biological sciences; mathematical and physical sciences; and social, behavioral, and economic sciences. This includes support for minority postdoctoral students in biological sciences and social, behavioral, and economic sciences and university/industry-based postdoctoral opportunities in mathematical and physical sciences. NSF initiated in fiscal year 1997 the Postdoctoral Fellowships in Science, Mathematics, Engineering, and Technology Education for study and research at the early career postdoctoral level. Informal Science Education-Increases the relevancy and motivation of what students learn in a formal education setting through informal methods such as museums and science centers, the media, and community/youth-based organizations. It fosters further study and career choices in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology fields; contributes to lifelong learning beyond the formal classroom; and motivates and informs segments of the population that might otherwise receive little exposure to science and technology. It promotes collaborations that link organizations with similar goals, especially those that bridge informal and formal education communities. Informal science education informs the American public about the process of science and scientific thinking and increases awareness of science, mathematics, engineering, and technology in everyday life. NSF, in cooperation with other agencies, strives to strengthen programs that contribute toward the U.S. goal of significantly increasing the percentage of scientifically literate adults. Enabling Activities-Research on education, policy, and practice program activities supports the cultivation of a research base for implementing innovative K through 16 reform strategies, as well as ways of improving graduate, professional, informal, and lifelong learning; building a knowledge base of ideas, practices, and policy alternatives that can significantly affect the education of all students; and generating and synthesizing results that are of immediate application to various stakeholders in quality education. The research on education, policy, and practice activities complements the Foundation's efforts on learning and intelligent systems that focus on the study of learning in natural and artificial systems. As a cornerstone of effective program management, the program employs evaluation to ensure the accountability of NSF programs. Coordinated communication and outreach activities are supported that advance the understanding of education reform and the methods, policies, and practices under which effective reform occurs and is sustained. For More Information For further information, contact Dr. Wanda E. Ward, Senior Staff Associate, Office of the Assistant Director for Education and Human Resources, (703) 306-1660. Faculty Early Career Development The Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Program is a Foundation-wide activity that supports junior faculty within the context of their overall career development. It combines in a single program the support of research and education of the highest quality and in the broadest sense. This premier program emphasizes the importance the Foundation places on the early development of academic careers dedicated to stimulating the discovery process in which the excitement of research is enhanced by inspired teaching and enthusiastic learning. Eligibility CAREER applicants must be in their first or second full-time tenure-track or equivalent academic appointment; have begun their first appointment on or after July 1, 1992, and before October 17, 1996; not hold or have held tenure on or before October 17, 1996; and be employed at a U.S. institution that awards a baccalaureate or advanced degree in a field supported by NSF. Current or former recipients of CAREER awards, Presidential Young Investigator Awards, or Presidential Faculty Fellowships are not eligible. Award Size and Duration The duration of awards is at least 4 but no more than 5 years. The funding level is consistent with the scope of the project and NSF directorate and disciplinary practice. The total award including indirect costs, ranges from $200,000 to $500,000 over the award period. The intent is to provide stable support at a sufficient level and duration to enable awardees to achieve the education and research career development objectives of the program. Deadlines and Additional Information CAREER proposals were due at NSF by October 17, 1996. The next deadline will be announced in the NSF Bulletin, a monthly publication produced by the Office of Legislative and Public Affairs. Potential applicants should refer to the CAREER Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document titled CAREER-FAQ, located on the NSF Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov/. For specific information on proposal development, consult the disciplinary program contacts given in the publication Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Program (NSF 96-115). This document is also available on the NSF Home Page, or from the NSF publications office by writing Forms and Publications, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room P15, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1130. NSF Component of the Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers Beginning in 1997, NSF will select up to 20 nominees annually for Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE) from among the most meritorious first-year awardees supported by the CAREER Program (see above for a description of CAREER). PECASE awards recognize outstanding scientists and engineers who early in their careers, show exceptional potential for leadership at the frontiers of knowledge. This Presidential Award is the highest honor bestowed by the United States Government on scientists and engineers beginning their independent careers. Eligibility In addition to meeting the eligibility requirements of the CAREER program, PECASE nominees must be U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents who hold such status on or before October 17, 1996. Award Size and Duration The CAREER awards of those NSF nominees who are PECASE recipients will be adjusted to provide 5 years of support at $100,000 annually. Deadlines and Additional Information To be considered for nomination, a CAREER proposal was due at NSF by October 17, 1996. The proposal was to include a completed copy of NSF Form 1317A, available in the CAREER program announcement (NSF 96-115). PECASE nominees will be selected from among the successful October 17, 1996, applicants for the CAREER Program. Current or former recipients of a CAREER award, Presidential Young Investigators Award, or Presidential Faculty Fellowship are not eligible. A brochure giving an overall description of PECASE is available on the NSF Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov/, or from Forms and Publications Office, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room P15, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1130. Learning and Intelligent Systems The Learning and Intelligent Systems (LIS) Initiative is an NSF-wide program that encompasses the study of learning in natural and artificial systems. The goal of LIS is to energize radical and rapid advances in our understanding of learning, creativity, and productivity, as well as develop the tools that will enhance the human ability to learn and create. LIS seeks to integrate and foster synergy among basic research in numerous disciplines that study natural and artificial "learning," including human and developmental psychology, computational neuroscience, neuroengineering, intelligent control theory, cognitive science, artificial intelligence, linguistics, animal psychology, machine learning, education and educational technology, computer science, systems theory, mathematics, and statistics. Funded projects are expected to support the creation of new research paradigms by encouraging the weaving together of common threads among multiple disciplines. The initiative will support high risk interdisciplinary research not otherwise funded under existing NSF programs. The initiative's goal of enhancing the ability to learn and create will be achieved by fostering connections between natural and artificial systems and by developing a sophisticated understanding of human learning, systems integration, and intelligent behavior, coupled with research and development on enabling technologies. Projects should be characterized by their potential to make great strides in deepening the knowledge-base rather than by taking incremental steps. Multidisciplinary research teams, cultivating new, innovative collaborations built on prior efforts, are seen as appropriate for successful projects. LIS should promote cooperation among relevant research communities and nurture scientific discussions across disciplinary boundaries. Proposals must have core research content related to learning in both natural and artificial systems, spanning more than one discipline, and more than one NSF directorate. Participating directorates include Biological Sciences, Computer and Information Science and Engineering, Education and Human Resources, Engineering, Mathematical and Physical Sciences, and Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences. Priority for funding of LIS projects will be given to proposals in which the cross-disciplinary links involve a serious sharing or blending of paradigms, models, and empirical validation criteria, as well as to proposals that have the potential to break new ground, mobilize new human resources, and lead to fundamental changes in methodology. In fiscal year 1996, NSF established the Collaborative Research on Learning Technologies (CRLT) Program as a first step in defining the scope of LIS. The objective of CRLT was to stimulate research on the integration of technology with learning at all levels of education, including self-directed and lifelong learning. Funding and management of CRLT came from EHR and three NSF research directorates. Twelve planning awards for CRLT Centers were made in fiscal year 1996. In fiscal year 1997, the goals of the CRLT activity will be incorporated into the LIS initiative. The continuing CRLT component of LIS seeks proposals for collaborative projects that contribute to the creative integration of basic research in education with basic research in information technology, as well as projects to establish one or more (real or virtual) Centers for Collaborative Research on Learning Technologies. Eligibility Please refer to the program announcement (see "For More Information" below) for specific details on eligible researchers, institutions, etc. Deadlines Preproposals are required and must be received by February 7, 1997. Full proposals are by invitation only, and must be received by May 15, 1997. For More Information The program announcement Learning and Intelligent Systems Initiative (NSF 97-18) is available from the NSF Forms and Publications Office by telephone, (703) 306-1130, or by e-mail, pubs@nsf.gov; and on the EHR Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://red.www.nsf.gov/. The Research, Evaluation, and Communication Division can be reached by telephone at (703) 306-1650. Grant Opportunities for Academic Liaison with Industry A major objective of the NSF is to improve the Nation's capacity for intellectual and economic growth. It does this by supporting the discovery of new knowledge and the enhancement of a skilled workforce. Industry can outline new technical challenges and assist in the support of academic institutions. By serving as a catalyst for industry/university partnerships, NSF helps ensure that intellectual capital and emerging technologies are brought together in ways that promote economic growth and an improved quality of life. The Grant Opportunities for Academic Liaison with Industry (GOALI) initiative aims to synergize industry/university partnerships by making funds available to support an eclectic mix of industry/university linkages. Special interest is focused on affording the opportunity for faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and students to conduct research and gain experience with production processes in an industrial setting; for industry scientists and engineers to bring industry's perspective and integrative skills to academe; and for interdisciplinary industry/university teams to conduct long-term projects. This initiative targets high-risk and high-gain research with focus on fundamental topics that would not have been undertaken by industry; development of innovative, collaborative industry/university educational programs; and direct transfer of new knowledge between academe and industry. To meet this objective, the GOALI initiative provides funding for faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and students to develop creative modes of collaborative interactions with industry through individual or small group projects, and for industry-based fellowships for graduate students and postdoctoral fellows. The following are examples of GOALI mechanisms. Proposers are encouraged to modify or adapt them to meet individual needs and/or realize imaginative ideas. An extended faculty visit to industry-from 3 to 12 months-to foster long-term industry/university collaboration. A faculty visit to industry-from 2 to 6 months-at the beginning of a 3-year university-based research project with the intention of transferring research results to industry by project's end. University-based support for cooperative university and industry engineers and/or scientists on a research project of mutual interest, including joint graduate student advising. A letter from industrial collaborator(s) documenting the intention to collaborate should be appended to the proposal. Support for interdisciplinary research/educational projects for two or three faculty from different academic units to interact with one or more industrial partners in a "virtual industry/university group." A visit to a university by leading industry engineers, scientists, and managers to catalyze collaborative research and/or teach and develop curricula. Support for one or two semesters of work in industry by a doctoral student under the guidance of an academic adviser. Support extending 1 or 2 years for a postdoctoral student to work in an industrial setting under the guidance of an academic mentor and in collaboration with an industrial partner. Support for high-risk and high-gain complementary research to a university faculty member participating with industry on an award from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), or from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). The topics addressed in a GOALI award need not focus on fundamental issues only but should address long-term generic research within an intellectual envelope shared by the industrial partner. Fundamental research in academe is performed in parallel with more applied research in industry. Industrial partners are encouraged to provide scientific and technical feedback, support personnel and equipment, and facilitate testing of the research results when suitable. Investigators are expected to integrate research objectives with educational and human resource goals and industry needs. GOALI also places emphasis on improving industry/university research linkages in the design of products and processes. The research should strengthen the fundamental scientific and engineering foundations on which new design and production practices and methods may be based. This emphasis aims to improve the basic understanding and development of integrated design tools in both academe and industry. The length of support requested should be appropriate to the purpose and can vary. For example, a visit to industry could be for 2 months, a full research proposal could take up to 3 years. Although cost-sharing for collaborative work is encouraged, the industrial partners are not required to match NSF research award funds for work performed in universities. However, where faculty visit industry to perform research for a longer time, it is expected that industry will provide 50 percent of the salary, considered cost-sharing. A coinvestigator or coadvisor from industry is required in a collaborative project or industrial fellowship. Support by GOALI may be provided through a grant or through a supplement for an eligible existing NSF award. Proposals in the GOALI Initiative are required to compete with all other proposals received at NSF for the respective research/educational program. Although flexibility exists for proposals focused on one or more of the examples listed above, the following directorates offer GOALI-related activities. For further information, consult the corresponding program announcement. The Directorate for Biological Sciences (BIO) supports postdoctoral and graduate student research experiences in industry by offering opportunities for postdoctoral studies through two programs: Postdoctoral Research Fellowships in Biosciences Related to the Environment (see program announcement NSF 94-114) and Minority Postdoctoral Research Fellowships (see program announcement NSF 94-133). Graduate Student Industrial Internships are provided for bioscience graduate students who have been awarded grants from the BIO Directorate to work in industry under the guidance of an academic advisor and an industrial mentor. For further information, consult the BIO Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov:80/bio/start.htm. The Directorate for Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE) offers opportunities in all areas supported by the directorate, such as postdoctoral fellowships in industry. For information on proposal submission and evaluation criteria, see the publication CISE Postdoctoral Research Associates in Computational Science and Engineering (in revision). For further information, consult the CISE Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.cise.nsf.gov/. The Directorates for Education and Human Resources (EHR), Engineering (ENG), and Geosciences (GEO) support research and education projects and fellowships in all disciplines that fall within their purview. For more information, see the publication GOALI: FY 1996 Guidelines for EHR, ENG, and GEO Directorates (NSF 95-111). For further information, consult the Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web for EHR (http://red.www.nsf.gov/), ENG (http://www.nsf.gov:80/eng/start.htm), and GEO (http://www.geo.nsf.gov/). The Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences (MPS) offers opportunities in all areas usually supported by the directorate. Specific opportunities for industry/university collaboration are described in the following program announcements: University/Industry Cooperative Research Programs in the Mathematical Sciences (NSF 94-100), Grant Opportunities for Academic Liaison with Industry (NSF 95-112), Environmentally Benign Chemical Synthesis and Processing (NSF 92-13), and NSF/NIST Interaction in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering (Dear Colleague Letter dated 2/10/95). For further information, consult the MPS Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov:80/mps/start.htm. The Directorate for Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences (SBE) supports-in addition to other activities-research in the framework of two initiatives. The first initiative advances the mission of the Decision, Risk, and Management Science Program and is designed to encourage theory-building in actual operational and managerial processes, problem-solving, risk management, strategic planning, and decision-making in private sector organizations. Further information can be found in the publication SBE/DRMS Joint NSF/Private Sector Research Opportunities (NSF 92-136). The objectives of the second initiative include supporting research to develop or improve concepts, theories, and methodologies for better managing transformations to quality organizations; and encouraging the development of new tools or processes, thereby leading to quality improvements in organization. Further information can be found in the publication Transformations to Quality Organizations (NSF 95-99). For further information, consult the SBE Directorate Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov:80/sbe/start.htm. For More Information For further information, contact Dr. M.C. Roco, Coordinator for the NSF GOALI Initiative, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Room 525, Arlington, Virginia 22230; or contact by phone, (703) 306-1371. The GOALI announcement (NSF 95-112) and the directorate guidelines are available on the NSF Home Page via the World Wide Web, http://www.nsf.gov/. Persons interested in submitting proposals for the GOALI initiative should contact the program director in their area of interest most closely related to their field of research and education for guidance on proposal submission. Life in Extreme Environments (LExEn) The NSF recently created a highly interdisciplinary, integrated research program titled Life in Extreme Environments (LExEn). This program, which is managed by the BIO, ENG, GEO and MPS Directorates and OPP, seeks to improve fundamental understanding of the formation and development of life, as well as foster an understanding of the physical/chemical/geological processes that sustain it. The study of microbial life-forms that exist in extreme conditions on Earth, will provide important new insights into how life originated and evolved here, and whether and how life may thrive on other planets. There will be a special funding opportunity in fiscal year 1997, to highlight NSF's strong interest in this area. Announcements will be posted electronically with hard copies available upon request. If you would like to be alerted to the posting of these announcements, please send a message to listmanager@nsf.gov with the command subscribe nsflexen in the text of the message (the subject line is ignored). Your e-mail address will be extracted from the "From" field of your request. For More Information Persons interested in submitting a proposal for the LExEn initiative should contact the program that is most closely related to their area of interest. -In the Division of Environmental Biology, contact Joann Roskoski by phone, 306-1480, or by e-mail, jroskosk@nsf.gov; -In the Division of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, contact Phil Harriman by phone, 306-1439, or by e-mail, pharrima@nsf.gov; -In the Division of Astronomical Sciences, contact Vernon Pankonin by phone, 306-1826, or by e-mail, vpankoni@nsf.gov; -In the Division of Chemistry, contact George Rubottom by phone, 306-1851, or by e-mail, grubotto@nsf.gov; -In the Division of Bioengineering and Environmental Systems, contact George Vermont by phone, 306-1318, or by e-mail, gvermont@nsf.gov; -In the Division of Atmospheric Sciences, contact Jarvis Moyers by phone, 306-1523, or by e-mail, jmoyers@nsf.gov; -In the Division of Earth Sciences, contact Chris Maples by phone, 306-1551, or by e-mail, cmaples@nsf.gov; -In the Division of Ocean Sciences, contact Mike Reeve by phone, 306-1582, or by e-mail, mreeve@nsf.gov; -In the Office of Polar Programs (Antarctic Research Section), contact Linda Duguay by phone, 306-1033, or by e-mail, lduguay@nsf.gov; and -In the Office of Polar Programs (Arctic Research Section), contact Douglas Siegel-Causey by phone, 306-1030, or by e-mail, dsiegel@nsf.gov. About the National Science Foundation The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency, created by the National Science Foundation Act of 1950. Its aim is to promote and advance scientific and engineering progress in the United States. The Foundation is also committed to ensuring the Nation's supply of scientists, engineers, and science educators. NSF funds research and education in most fields of science and engineering. It does this through grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements to more than 2,000 colleges, universities, and other research and/or education organizations in all parts of the United States. NSF receives more than 30,000 proposals annually for new or renewal support for research, graduate and postdoctoral fellowships, and math/science/engineering education projects and makes approximately 10,000 new awards. These typically are awarded to universities, colleges, academic consortia, nonprofit institutions, and small businesses. The agency operates no laboratories itself but does support National Research Centers, certain oceanographic vessels, and Antarctic research stations. The Foundation also supports cooperative research between universities and industry and U.S. participation in international scientific efforts. NSF is generally structured by fields of science and engineering but also considers activities that cross traditional fields through coordinating review across the Foundation. The NSF's staff is assisted by advisors, primarily from the scientific and engineering communities, who serve on panels or as mail reviewers of proposals. NSF program officers who are experts in the field or area of the proposal are responsible for final award recommendations. Grantees are wholly responsible for conducting their project activities and preparing the results for publication. Thus the Foundation does not assume responsibility for such findings or their interpretation. NSF welcomes proposals on behalf of all qualified scientists, engineers, and science educators. The Foundation strongly encourages women, minorities, and persons with disabilities to participate fully in its programs. In accordance with federal statutes, regulations, and NSF policies, no person on grounds of race, color, age, sex, national origin, or disability shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving financial assistance from NSF. Facilitation Awards for Scientists and Engineers with Disabilities provide funding for special assistance or equipment to enable persons with disabilities to work on NSF-supported projects. (For more information, see Section V.G.) The National Science Foundation has TDD and FIRS capabilities that enable individuals with hearing impairment to communicate with the Foundation about NSF programs, employment, or general information. To access TDD, dial 306-0090; for FIRS, 1-800-877-8339. Privacy Act and Public Burden The information requested on proposal forms is solicited under the authority of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950, as amended. It will be used in connection with the selection of qualified proposals and may be disclosed to qualified reviewers and NSF staff as part of the review process; to applicant institutions/grantees to provide or obtain data regarding the application review process, award decisions, or the administration of awards; to government contractors, experts, volunteers, and researchers as necessary to complete assigned work; and to other government agencies in order to coordinate programs. See Systems of Records, NSF-50, "Principal Investigators/Proposal File and Associated Records," 60 Federal Register 4449 (January 23, 1995), and NSF-51, "Reviewer/Proposal File and Associated Records," 59 Federal Register 8031 (February 17, 1994). Submission of the information is voluntary. Failure to provide full and complete information, however, may reduce the possibility of your receiving an award. The public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 120 hours per response, including the time for reviewing instructions. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to Herman G. Fleming, Reports Clearance Officer, Contracts, Policy, and Oversight, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, Virginia 22230.) NSF 97-30 (Replaces NSF 95-138)