The EDU Core Research (ECR:Core) program from the National Science Foundation (NSF) invites proposals for fundamental research in STEM education. This opportunity emphasizes projects that generate foundational knowledge to advance STEM learning, broaden participation, and prepare the workforce for future challenges. The program supports research that is either curiosity-driven or use-inspired, aiming to develop theories and insights that have long-term relevance rather than immediate applications. Projects under this program are expected to provide explanations and frameworks that could later guide educational practices, workforce strategies, and policymaking.

The funding program offers three levels based on the scope of the proposed research. Level I proposals may request up to $500,000, Level II up to $1.5 million, and Level III up to $2.5 million, with each project lasting between three to five years. Applicants are required to align their budget and timeline with the goals of the project and provide justification for the resources requested. The program anticipates awarding approximately 40 grants, with a total expected budget of $35 million, although the exact number and funding amount may vary depending on the availability of funds. The annual submission deadline is the first Thursday in October, with applications accepted through Research.gov or Grants.gov.

The program seeks proposals across three broad research areas: STEM learning and learning environments, broadening participation in STEM, and STEM workforce development. Applicants may address one or more of these areas, with topics such as diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM education, learning processes across formal and informal environments, or the impact of emerging technologies on workforce development. Pilot studies are encouraged for preliminary work that explores high-risk ideas, and synthesis projects are accepted to integrate and analyze existing research. Conferences may also be funded if they align with the objectives of the ECR program, with typical budgets ranging from $25,000 to $99,000.

Successful proposals must include a detailed research plan with clear questions, data collection methods, and analysis strategies. The proposals should connect to existing literature and demonstrate how the research will contribute to theoretical advances in STEM education. Plans must also address how findings will be shared to ensure transparency and impact, including strategies such as pre-registering research, sharing data, and engaging with diverse audiences. Proposals are required to include a section on broader impacts, describing how the project will benefit society by supporting underrepresented groups, improving STEM education, or fostering public engagement with science.

NSF evaluates proposals through a merit review process that considers both intellectual merit and broader impacts. Intellectual merit assesses the potential of the research to advance knowledge in STEM fields, while broader impacts examine the societal value of the project. Proposals undergo review by subject matter experts, with evaluations considering how well the research questions are defined, the qualifications of the project team, and the availability of resources needed to conduct the research. Final funding decisions are made by NSF based on these reviews and alignment with the agency’s strategic priorities.

Awardees are required to submit annual progress reports and a final project report through Research.gov, documenting accomplishments, challenges, and impacts. They must also participate in grantee meetings every other year in Washington, D.C. All projects are expected to follow NSF guidelines on data management to promote reproducibility and openness in research. Failure to comply with reporting or data-sharing requirements may affect future funding eligibility. This funding opportunity offers a valuable platform for researchers to contribute to the future of STEM education by addressing critical challenges and exploring innovative solutions.