The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Science Mission Directorate (SMD) has released the Research Opportunities in Space and Earth Sciences (ROSES) 2024 omnibus Research Announcement (NRA), which includes the Future Investigators in NASA Earth and Space Science and Technology (FINESST) program. The FINESST initiative provides funding opportunities for graduate student research projects in Earth and space sciences. Proposers must be affiliated with an eligible institution listed on NSPIRES, NASA’s research and proposal submission system. While NASA typically funds only U.S.-based institutions, foreign institutions may participate under specific conditions outlined in the NASA Proposer’s Guide.

FINESST is intended to support graduate students conducting research relevant to NASA’s Science Mission Directorate. The funding can be used to support student stipends, tuition, and research-related expenses. The program aims to cultivate the next generation of Earth and space scientists by providing them with financial and professional development support. The period of performance for most awards is three years, although some projects may be shorter or longer depending on the specific requirements of the research. Awards will be made as grants or cooperative agreements, but not as contracts.

The funding is available for research in Earth science, planetary science, astrophysics, heliophysics, and biological and physical sciences. Applications must be submitted by institutions rather than individuals, and students must work under the guidance of a research advisor or principal investigator. There is no cost-sharing or matching fund requirement for applicants. While the exact number of awards is not specified, the program expects to make multiple grants to eligible projects based on funding availability.

Applicants must retrieve and complete the necessary forms included in the application package and adhere to the submission instructions provided in the ROSES 2024 announcement. The application deadline for the FINESST program has been extended to February 26, 2025. Amendments have been made to the solicitation, including clarifications on review criteria, updates to requirements for biosketches, and modifications to sections detailing computing resources. A full list of program elements, deadlines, and proposal submission guidelines can be found on the NSPIRES website.

Evaluation criteria will include scientific merit, relevance to NASA’s research objectives, feasibility of the proposed research plan, and the potential impact on student development. The program encourages proposals that align with NASA’s long-term goals in Earth and space sciences. Applicants can access frequently asked questions and seek guidance from NASA program officers based on their specific research area.

For additional details, applicants are advised to check NSPIRES for the latest amendments and updates. Inquiries can be directed to the designated program scientists based on the research discipline. The FINESST program remains a key initiative in fostering new scientific talent and advancing research in space and Earth sciences through direct student engagement.