Partnerships in Astronomy Astrophysics Research and Education

The NSF 24-516: Partnerships in Astronomy & Astrophysics Research and Education (PAARE) is a funding opportunity offered by the National Science Foundation (NSF), Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Division of Astronomical Sciences. This program aims to enhance astronomy and astrophysics research and education through the development of formal, long-term partnerships. These partnerships are expected to broaden participation in astronomy by providing authentic research opportunities for individuals from historically underrepresented groups. The goal is to increase recruitment, retention, and success in astronomy while strengthening research capacity and fostering an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment at participating institutions.

The PAARE program encourages partnerships between institutions that seek to create research opportunities and those with significant research infrastructure. Proposals should outline how the partnership will be established, describe planned research and educational activities, and explain how professional development, mentoring, and cohort-building efforts will be evaluated. Partnerships can involve academic institutions, private observatories, and NSF-supported astronomical facilities. Minority-serving institutions are particularly encouraged to apply, and proposals involving NSF's astronomical observatories are welcomed.

The anticipated funding amount for this program is $1,500,000, with 3 to 5 awards expected to be distributed. The awards may vary based on the size, scope, and duration of the proposed partnership. Eligible applicants include two- and four-year institutions of higher education (including community colleges) in the U.S., non-profit, non-academic organizations (such as independent museums, observatories, and research laboratories), and federally recognized Tribal Nations. Proposals must be submitted through Research.gov or Grants.gov, following the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG).

The proposal submission deadlines for full proposals are March 12, 2024; February 18, 2025; and February 15 annually thereafter. There are no restrictions on the number of proposals per organization or principal investigator (PI). Proposals do not require a Letter of Intent or Preliminary Proposal Submission. The merit review criteria include Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts, with additional criteria specific to increasing opportunities for underrepresented groups and building research capacity.

For inquiries, applicants can contact Louise O. Edwards (703-292-7597, loedward@nsf.gov) or Hans A. Krimm (703-292-2761, hkrimm@nsf.gov). More information on submission guidelines, award conditions, and reporting requirements is available on the NSF website.