Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for NSF 18-530, Antarctic Research Program Solicitation

Starting January 16, 2018, programs in the Antarctic Sciences Section (ANT) (NSF 18-530) will accept proposals at any time. There will no longer be any restriction on when a proposal can be submitted. Proposals requesting Antarctic fieldwork will still need to allow for at least 18 months of lead time for the review process, and assuming an award, the planning and implementation of field programs.

This action is being taken to enable greater flexibility for the community, and reduce the burden on investigators, reviewers, and submitting institutions. By accepting proposals at any time, investigators will have more time to prepare proposals and build strong collaborations; think more creatively without the pressure of a deadline; and if desired propose more complex, interdisciplinary projects that have the potential to dramatically advance science.

All proposals will be sent out for mail review. Proposals also may be considered by a panel of experts as has been the practice in Antarctic Sciences.

Program Officers will schedule panels as needed depending on the number of submissions received.

No, as is normal under NSF policy.

No change in average time to decision and release of reviews is expected with this change. Six months is the normal time for the review process.

If deadlines exist for other programs that are involved in a collaboration with proposals submitted to ANT programs, ANT Program Directors will work with those of other programs to co-review in the same manner as is currently done for proposals that are shared between Programs. If a proposal is submitted for co-consideration with another Program that operates with deadlines, Principal Investigators are encouraged to consult with ANT Program Directors and those in the other Program to seek guidance on the best time to submit the proposal. This should help avoid delays in review.

There are no restrictions regarding timing, however, Principal Investigators are reminded to note PAPPG Chapter IV.E, which states: "A declined proposal may be resubmitted, but only after it has undergone substantial revision. A resubmitted proposal that has not clearly taken into account the major comments or concerns resulting from the prior NSF review may be returned without review."

The scheduling of Antarctic fieldwork will not be affected by this change. Principal Investigators should follow current guidelines, as noted above, with respect to lead time for planning and implementation of field programs.

There is no limit to the number of proposals a Principal Investigator can have pending in Antarctic Sciences at any given time.

No, these programs will continue to accept proposals once a year on the deadlines stated in their solicitations.

No, there is no requirement to alert the Program. Although, as is currently the case, Principal Investigators should contact the cognizant Program Director if they have questions or are proposing a large or complex proposal that may need special consideration.