The NSF Division of Chemistry’s Disciplinary Research Programs (CHE-DRP), outlined in solicitation NSF 22-605, supports foundational research in chemical sciences through six primary programs: Chemical Catalysis (CAT), Chemical Measurement and Imaging (CMI), Chemical Mechanism, Function and Properties (CMFP), Chemical Synthesis (SYN), Environmental Chemical Sciences (ECS), and Macromolecular, Supramolecular and Nanochemistry (MSN). The goal is to fund innovative research that advances chemical knowledge, develops technologies, and prepares the next generation of chemical scientists. Projects should address themes such as chemical synthesis, environmental chemistry, nanochemistry, catalysis, and measurement methods, with an emphasis on sustainability and emerging fields like quantum information systems, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence.

The program anticipates awarding approximately 245 grants, with an estimated annual budget of $105 million, although actual funding is contingent on federal budget allocations. Awards will be made as standard or continuing grants, depending on project scope and objectives. The typical award duration is three to five years, allowing for substantial contributions to both theoretical and practical aspects of chemistry.

Eligibility is primarily limited to U.S.-based institutions of higher education, including both two- and four-year institutions. Certain non-profit, non-academic research organizations such as museums and observatories are also eligible if their activities align with educational or research goals. Each principal investigator (PI) is allowed to submit up to two proposals per cycle, provided that at least one is collaborative. Proposals can be submitted via Research.gov or Grants.gov, and collaborative projects must use Research.gov for submission.

Proposal deadlines fall within two annual windows: from September 1 to September 30 for the CAT, CMFP, and SYN programs, and from October 1 to October 31 for the CMI, ECS, and MSN programs. These deadlines are strict, and proposals submitted outside the designated windows will not be considered. Proposals should follow NSF’s Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG) and include clear statements of intellectual merit and broader societal impacts. Proposals will be evaluated on both scientific quality and their potential for advancing societal goals, such as promoting STEM diversity and enhancing public engagement with science.

Additional considerations include the “Build America, Buy America” Act compliance, requiring that materials used in funded projects be produced domestically. Reporting requirements mandate annual and final reports submitted via Research.gov, covering project outcomes and contributions to knowledge, technology, and societal impacts.

Questions about this solicitation can be directed to designated program officers for each subprogram, with contact details provided in the document. For technical assistance, NSF’s Research.gov and Grants.gov help desks are available, supporting applicants in the proposal preparation and submission process.