The Distinguished Early Career Program (DECP) is the Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Nuclear Energys (NE) most prestigious award for the most innovative distinguished faculty members beginning their independent careers. The intent of the program is to provide stable support to those faculty to form the impactful research groups, innovative lines of inquiry, educational approaches, and critical new research directions that will drive the next generation of nuclear energy innovation. NE encourages all eligible applicants to apply, especially women, members of underrepresented minority groups, and persons with disabilities. This FOA is soliciting distinguished early career applications that provide a clear research and education plan that highlights the applicants research and educational strengths; the research and education vision to support the development of the faculty member; and research infrastructure, curriculum, and outcomes that will advance the applicants research focus while training the next generation of nuclear energy professionals. Applications are required to focus on NE mission areas as outlined below.