Division of Integrative Biology and Neuroscience

Neuroscience

Description

The Neuroscience Cluster of thematic areas is located within the Division of Integrative Biology and Neuroscience and 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.

Supported in this cluster is research on neural regulation of behavioral events, ranging from simple movements to complex adaptive and interactive responses, studies that explore the computational functions of neurons, neural circuits, and nervous systems, and the development and testing of mathematical or computer models of neural systems. Also included is research on the development, regeneration, and aging of the nervous system, including aspects of cell lineage and determination; axonal navigation and cell migration; regulation of gene expression; neuronal morphogenesis; and neuron-glia interactions.

This cluster also supports research on understanding multifaceted relationships among the central nervous system, hormones, and behavior, especially in relation to environmental factors. This includes how the brain controls endocrine secretion and the effects of steroid and peptide hormones on the brain. Innovative approaches and techniques exploring the cellular and molecular mechanisms of neuronal and glial cell function, including energy metabolism, ion and substrate transport, and synaptic mechanisms, are also supported. Included in this thematic area are studies of the mechanisms by which the nervous system acquires, encodes, and processes information about the environment, and research on neural processes at the molecular, cellular, systemic, and behavioral levels, and psychophysical correlates of sensory neural processes.

Due Dates

Proposals must be submitted by the following date(s):

• Full Proposal Target Date(s):
  January 12, annually
  July 12, annually

Primary Program Contact

Diane M. Witt
Program Director
Rm. 685 S
Phone: (703) 292-8423,
Email: dwitt@nsf.gov

Eligibility Information

Standard eligibility criteria as defined in the Grant Proposal Guide apply to this program. There are no additional limitations.

Award Information

Estimated program budget, number of awards and average award size/duration are subject to the availability of funds.

Proposal Preparation Instructions

• Full proposals: Standard Preparation Guidelines
  • Standard GPG Guidelines apply.

Budgetary Information

This program adheres to the budget definition and preparation instructions described in the Grant Proposal Guide and has no additional requirements or limitations.

Cost Sharing is not required.

Proposal Review Information

• Merit Review Criteria: National Science Board approved criteria apply.

Award Administration Information

• Award Conditions: Standard NSF award conditions apply.
• Reporting Requirements: Standard NSF reporting requirements apply.

Related Information

Links:

• BIO Directorate Home Page
• IBN Division Home Page

Program Description Number: PD 04-5500