The National Science Foundation (NSF), a federal agency dedicated to promoting the progress of science and advancing national health, prosperity, and welfare, administers the Mind, Machine, and Motor Nexus (M3X) program. Housed within the Directorate for Engineering, specifically the Division of Civil, Mechanical and Manufacturing Innovation (ENG/CMMI), the M3X program is designed to support foundational research on the bidirectional interaction between intelligent engineered systems and humans in physics-based environments. This initiative underscores the integration of advanced technology into everyday human life with a focus on safety, efficiency, and well-being.

M3X targets intelligent engineered systems, defined as human-designed systems that interact with their environment to achieve specific goals. These systems—whether physical, virtual, or hybrid—collect and analyze data, then make decisions to enhance performance. Central to the M3X program is the requirement that these systems function in environments where physical laws like gravity and inertia apply. The program encourages innovation that deepens understanding of human-machine interactions, particularly in settings such as elder care, disaster response, and dynamic workplaces.

The M3X program is structured around three key research domains. First, it supports the development of conceptual frameworks and theoretical modeling to analyze cognition, perception, and behavior during interactions. Second, it fosters research in dynamic interaction analysis and simulation, including learning, co-adaptation, and cooperation in both virtual and physical environments. Third, the program promotes the creation of innovative technologies that enhance human-machine interaction, such as new interfaces, testbeds, and sensorimotor integration methods.

Applicants are encouraged to propose research that significantly advances at least one of these core areas. While not required to address all three, proposals must demonstrate a strong alignment with the M3X program’s focus on enhancing the understanding of bidirectional interaction in physics-based contexts. To assist in alignment, Principal Investigators may submit a one-page Project Summary for feedback before submitting a full proposal.

Applications to the M3X program are accepted on a rolling basis without fixed deadlines. Full proposals must adhere to the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide when submitted via Research.gov or to the NSF Grants.gov Application Guide when submitted through Grants.gov. Proposals for EAGER or RAPID awards, or for workshops and supplements, can also be submitted at any time but require prior communication with a cognizant program director.

For additional support or clarification, applicants can contact Program Directors Alexander Leonessa or Alexandra Medina-Borja at m3x@nsf.gov or by calling 703-292-2633 and 703-292-7557 respectively. Proposals must be submitted in strict accordance with NSF guidelines to be considered for funding.