The National Science Foundation (NSF) invites proposals for the Human Networks and Data Science (HNDS) program, which aims to support research enhancing the understanding of human behavior through data science and network science methodologies. The program focuses on leveraging large, dynamic, and heterogeneous datasets to explore fundamental questions about individual and group behavior. It emphasizes advancing knowledge that can lead to improved societal outcomes in health, prosperity, and security. HNDS offers two funding tracks: Human Networks and Data Science – Infrastructure (HNDS-I) and Human Networks and Data Science – Core Research (HNDS-R).

The HNDS-I track supports the development of data resources and analytical tools that facilitate large-scale, data-intensive social, behavioral, and economic (SBE) research. Proposals should result in a finished product, such as comprehensive databases or advanced analytical techniques, that will enable research previously unattainable due to data limitations. Projects should focus on creating broadly applicable tools or resources capable of supporting multiple fields within the SBE sciences. Successful proposals must include a detailed technical plan and a sustainability plan outlining long-term data accessibility and maintenance strategies.

The HNDS-R track supports projects that advance theoretical frameworks in SBE sciences through data-intensive approaches, including multi-scale network data analysis and integration of diverse data types. Proposals should address significant theoretical problems using large-scale datasets and advanced modeling techniques. Projects are expected to provide innovative insights into human behavior, especially in response to changes or external disruptions. Proposals submitted directly to HNDS-R require prior approval from a program officer unless submitted as secondary to another NSF program. Core research proposals are encouraged to utilize NSF-supported infrastructure or data networks.

The HNDS program anticipates a total funding amount of $8 million annually, supporting approximately 5 to 25 projects. HNDS-I awards are expected to range from $750,000 to $800,000, while HNDS-R awards are anticipated to range from $350,000 to $400,000. Projects may span one to five years, and budgets must align with the scope and objectives of the proposed work. Proposals exceeding these funding ranges require exceptional justification.

Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, non-profit organizations, for-profit organizations, government entities, and tribal organizations, as defined in the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG). There are no limits on the number of proposals an organization may submit. However, an individual may only serve as a Principal Investigator (PI) or Co-PI on one HNDS-I proposal per year. Proposals must comply with all NSF submission guidelines and include sections addressing technical and sustainability plans, ethical considerations, and compliance with institutional review board (IRB) requirements for human subjects research.

Applications will be evaluated using NSF’s two merit review criteria: intellectual merit and broader impacts. Reviewers will assess the significance of the proposed work, the appropriateness of methodologies, the qualifications of the research team, and the project’s potential societal benefits. The program also values interdisciplinary collaboration and projects that address ethical concerns regarding data privacy, confidentiality, and responsible data use.

Proposal deadlines are scheduled annually, typically on the second Thursday in July and January and the first Thursday in August and February. Specific deadlines for each track must be followed, and direct submissions to HNDS-R require prior permission. Applicants are encouraged to consult program officers to ensure alignment with program priorities. For further details, applicants can reference the NSF PAPPG and Grants.gov guidelines or contact the listed NSF program officers directly.