The Materials Research Science and Engineering Centers (MRSEC) program, under the National Science Foundation (NSF), supports multidisciplinary materials research and education that addresses complex scientific challenges requiring extensive collaboration and synergy. It aims to enhance the competitiveness of the United States in materials science by fostering research of the highest quality, promoting integration between research and education, and broadening participation in STEM fields. MRSECs support two or three Interdisciplinary Research Groups (IRGs), each comprising 6-12 faculty researchers working collaboratively on significant materials research topics. They also aim to advance shared experimental and computational facilities while promoting partnerships with industry, national laboratories, and other entities.

The MRSEC program seeks proposals that address fundamental materials research questions, with emphasis on advancing semiconductors, biotechnology, sustainable materials, and architected materials across scales, among other priority areas. High-risk, high-impact research and studies incorporating theoretical, computational, or autonomous experimentation approaches are encouraged. Proposals must align with the Materials Genome Initiative or other NSF-supported research domains. A critical requirement is the integration of research with education and outreach, including activities designed to broaden participation among underrepresented groups in STEM.

Anticipated funding for the FY 2026 competition is approximately $27 million, supporting 8-10 awards. Each award will range from $3 million annually for a center with two IRGs to $4.5 million for three IRGs, over a period of up to six years. Awards are contingent on successful center progress and will undergo competitive review for any future funding. Eligible institutions are U.S.-based accredited two- or four-year colleges and universities, including community colleges. Only one proposal may be submitted per institution, and institutions awarded a MRSEC in the FY 2023 cycle are ineligible to lead proposals in this cycle.

Applicants must first submit a preliminary proposal via Research.gov by June 23, 2025, detailing the proposed IRGs, their intellectual merit, and broader impacts. Only invited applicants may submit full proposals by November 24, 2025, which will be evaluated based on additional merit criteria, including organizational rationale, the integration of research and education, and the fostering of diversity. Submission instructions for preliminary and full proposals require adherence to specific NSF guidelines. Proposals must include detailed strategic plans, a description of shared facilities, and clear metrics for assessing success.

The program emphasizes a robust review process, including ad hoc and panel reviews for preliminary and full proposals. Selection is based on intellectual merit, broader impacts, and alignment with NSF priorities. Successful centers must demonstrate a strong commitment to education, outreach, and partnerships, with special attention to broadening participation in STEM. Annual progress reports, strategic plans for sharing data aligned with FAIR principles, and adherence to NSF policies on diversity and inclusion are required for all funded centers. The anticipated start date for new MRSEC awards is September 1, 2026.