The National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Biology Integration Institutes (BII) program aims to foster interdisciplinary research that connects various biological fields to address broad scientific questions. The program supports collaborative teams from diverse institutions, encouraging efforts to unify biology across scales, from molecules to ecosystems. It emphasizes the integration of research, education, and innovation to build a more interconnected biological research community. One of the main goals is to overcome the fragmentation of biological subdisciplines by leveraging new technologies, data analytics, and cyberinfrastructure to discover fundamental biological principles.

Each Institute funded under the program is required to develop a central research theme that spans multiple biological subfields. These themes must focus on questions that are beyond the scope of individual research programs. Proposals must emphasize scientific inquiry alongside training programs designed to develop future scientific leaders, with a focus on fostering diversity and inclusion. Students and researchers should gain interdisciplinary experience without compromising specialized knowledge. Additionally, the program encourages inclusive research environments and outreach efforts that promote participation from underrepresented groups and increase public understanding of biological research.

The BII program will issue funding through cooperative agreements, with a maximum award period of six years. Each award may provide up to fifteen million dollars in total, or approximately 2.5 million dollars per year. The program expects to fund four to five institutes, subject to proposal quality and the availability of funds. Eligible applicants include institutions of higher education, such as two- and four-year U.S. colleges and universities, as well as non-profit organizations involved in education or research. If multiple institutions collaborate on a proposal, one organization must serve as the lead institution, with other partners receiving funding through subawards.

Proposals must be submitted by February 18, 2025, following NSF’s guidelines. Earlier deadlines applied in 2023 for those participating in the first cycle of this solicitation. Submissions will only be accepted via Research.gov or Grants.gov, as NSF has discontinued use of FastLane for this program. Proposals should include detailed plans for research activities, project management, educational components, and outreach initiatives, along with metrics to evaluate success. Applicants are encouraged to contact program directors in advance to discuss alignment with program objectives.

Proposals will be evaluated through NSF’s standard merit review process, focusing on two main criteria: intellectual merit and broader impacts. Reviewers will assess the potential of the research to advance scientific knowledge and its contribution to societal outcomes, such as public engagement, diversity in STEM fields, and improvements in education. Successful proposals must clearly demonstrate how different subdisciplines will integrate to address key biological questions. Teams must also include diverse members, spanning various career stages and backgrounds, and present clear plans for managing collaboration and addressing logistical challenges.

The program strongly encourages submissions from institutions serving underrepresented populations, such as Primarily Undergraduate Institutions and Minority-Serving Institutions. Proposals must address strategies for data sharing, collaborative management, and promoting equitable participation. Open science practices are required, with an expectation that research outputs will be made accessible to the scientific community and the public. Institutes are encouraged to develop innovative models for education and collaboration, preparing participants to navigate interdisciplinary research environments.

The Biology Integration Institutes program aims to drive sustainable scientific innovation by building strong interdisciplinary networks, fostering dynamic educational programs, and engaging with a diverse range of participants. Successful proposals will demonstrate leadership in research and education, integrating expertise across fields while contributing to societal goals. Applicants are advised to consult NSF’s program officers for guidance on proposal development and submission procedures.