Macromolecular, Supramolecular, and Nanochemistry (MSN)

The Macromolecular, Supramolecular, and Nanochemistry (MSN) program supports novel basic research that addresses fundamental questions and advances knowledge regarding the chemistry of macromolecular, supramolecular, and nanoscopic structures. Research of interest to this program will explore novel chemistry concepts including, but not limited to: synthesis of macromolecular, supramolecular, and nanoscopic structures; surface functionalization methodologies; surface monolayer chemistry; inter- and intra-molecular interactions that give rise to macromolecular, supramolecular, or nanoparticulate self-assembly into discrete structures (but not liquid phases, liquid crystals, or extended solids); and chemical dynamics that are responsible for spatial organization in discrete organic, inorganic, or hybrid systems (excluding liquid phases, liquid crystals, or extended solids). Also included are advanced experimental or computational methods, which are grounded on fundamental chemistry principles, to delineate or to predict the chemical structure, unique chemical and physicochemical properties, and chemical reactivity that result from macromolecular, supramolecular, and nanoscopic structures, including systems that exhibit quantum confinement and other non-classical effects. Projects that demonstrate synergy between experiment and theory are of special interest.  

The MSN program also encourages proposal submissions in the following topical areas: Research on chemistry processes and concepts engendered by supramolecular and nanoscopic systems that may advance our understanding of and ultimate applications in Quantum Information Science (QIS). Research to gain fundamental macromolecular, supramolecular or nanochemistry knowledge for enabling Advanced Manufacturing may include but are not limited to: transformative approaches to efficient and inexpensive synthesis using earth abundant elements and feedstocks; innovative approaches to recycling or upcycling of polymers; and novel research that enhances the understanding of efficient use and recycling of critical elements. Grant Opportunities for Academic Liaison with Industry (GOALI) proposals, where such advances are connected directly to industrial considerations, are also encouraged.  

The MSN program encourages PIs to monitor current funding priorities identified by the Foundation and to highlight relevant synergies in their project summaries and project descriptions.  

Research topics that are not of interest to the MSN program:   

• Proposals for which the primary focus is on small single molecules, liquid-crystalline phases, polymer phases, and extended solids (including metal organic frameworks); 

• Projects based on empirical data mining using AI, machine learning, and/or other computational techniques to identify structures with desired catalytic, recognition, or materials properties; 

• Research on the fate of nanoparticles or polymers in the environment;  

• Research on selection or engineering of proteins or DNA/RNA, DNA origami, drug delivery processes or mechanisms, or biological properties (including toxicity); or 

• Projects that focus on improving materials properties, engineering processes, or device performance. 

• Principal Investigators interested in the areas above are encouraged to approach other, more closely aligned programs, such as those in Physics or Materials Research within the Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences, or the NSF Directorate for Engineering.
  

• Principal Investigators unsure of program fit for their projects should send a single email, copied to all potentially relevant programs, for feedback and to schedule further discussion if warranted. 

 Proposals to the MSN program are welcome at any time, starting September 1, 2026.  All proposals submitted to this program (including individual and collaborative proposals, GOALIs) must be submitted to the MPS Chemistry Research Programs Notice of Funding Opportunity (NSF 26-519), except for: 

• RUI proposals must be submitted to the Facilitating Research at Predominantly Undergraduate Institutions: (RUI and ROA-PUI) program. 

• Proposals submitted in response to another solicitation should follow the solicitation guidelines (e.g., CAREER). 

• Early-concept Grants for Exploratory Research (EAGER), Rapid Response Research (RAPID), or Research Advanced by Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering (RAISE) proposals must be discussed with a program officer before submission and then should only be submitted as instructed. 

MPS Chemistry occasionally supports forward-looking workshops to inform future research needs and directions relevant to chemical science. We are not generally able to support research symposia, including those at either special or recurring meetings and conferences. Workshop proposals must be discussed with a program officer before submission. 

For recent awards made by the program, search the NSF award database with the Program Element Code 688500.

• What Has Been Funded (Recent Awards Made Through This Program, with Abstracts)

• Map of Recent Awards Made Through This Program