The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) has released the Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) N0017324STS01 for its Postdoctoral Fellowship Program (PFP). This program aims to engage postdoctoral scientists and engineers in research activities that are aligned with the interests of the Navy, promoting both civilian and military applications. The program supports creative and innovative research largely chosen by the Fellows themselves, while ensuring it aligns with NRL’s mission. The program is multidisciplinary, covering a wide range of scientific and technical fields with maritime applications. The awardees will work closely with NRL, and their research will benefit from access to NRL’s state-of-the-art research facilities, fostering a collaborative environment with significant government involvement.

The FOA outlines that cooperative agreements, rather than contracts, will be awarded. These agreements will cover administrative support and fellowship stipends, as well as travel and relocation expenses for the Fellows. The Fellows are expected to perform fundamental research at NRL facilities, located in Washington, DC; Stennis, MS; and Monterey, CA. The program offers fellowships for one year, with the possibility of extending to a second or third year based on performance and NRL’s discretion. Stipends are based on the General Schedule (GS-12, Step 1), and the fellowship includes a travel allowance and relocation support, though caps apply to these costs.

Eligible applicants include postdoctoral candidates who have held a doctorate for less than five years and are either U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents. The award period extends from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2029, with the last year designated for administrative closeout tasks. Recipients of the cooperative agreements will be responsible for managing the selection process for Fellows, in coordination with NRL, and providing ongoing support during the Fellows’ research.

Applications must be submitted by October 16, 2024, through Grants.gov. Proposals will be evaluated based on several criteria, including the recruitment plan for Fellows, the management plan for the fellowship, past performance of the offeror, and cost realism and reasonableness. Submissions should include a full proposal that meets the requirements laid out in the FOA, including the recruitment strategy and a management structure for the program. Applicants must also be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) and ensure their entity information is current throughout the application and award process.

This FOA presents a significant opportunity for institutions to participate in advancing science and technology that supports the Navy’s strategic goals, while providing postdoctoral researchers with a platform to conduct meaningful and innovative research under the guidance of NRL’s resources and expertise.