The National Science Foundation’s Tectonics Program supports research focused on understanding the deformation processes and tectonic drivers of the Earth's continental lithosphere. The program funds a wide range of field, laboratory, computational, and theoretical investigations that address deformation across various depths, time scales—from decades to millions of years—and spatial scales, ranging from microscopic to plate boundary systems. Supported projects may explore surface and subsurface deformation structures, geological records, rheological properties, and mechanisms of plate movements and reconstructions. Research funded under this program often integrates multidisciplinary approaches and may bridge other NSF programs, including Geophysics and Marine Geology and Geophysics, depending on the project's scope.

The program aims to advance knowledge of continental lithosphere deformation processes and encourages the use of innovative methodologies from diverse scientific disciplines. It supports interdisciplinary research, including collaborative and international projects. Additionally, the program emphasizes activities that foster diversity, equity, and inclusion in geosciences. Proposals for community conferences or workshops addressing new research directions or key challenges in tectonics are also welcomed. Investigators interested in submitting proposals for Rapid Response Research (RAPID) or Early-concept Grants for Exploratory Research (EAGER) must consult with program directors before submission.

With an anticipated annual funding budget of $11.7 million, the Tectonics Program expects to issue 40 to 50 awards each year, either as standard or continuing grants. Award decisions are typically made within six to seven months after proposal submission. Funding levels and the number of awards are contingent upon the availability of funds. Cost-sharing is not permitted, and proposals with equipment requests exceeding $50,000 generally require separate applications to the Instrumentation and Facilities Program.

Eligible applicants include accredited two- and four-year institutions of higher education (IHEs) located in the United States and non-profit, non-academic organizations such as museums, observatories, research laboratories, and professional societies associated with educational or research activities. There are no restrictions on who may serve as a Principal Investigator (PI). However, individual investigators may not submit more than four proposals per calendar year, either as PI, co-PI, or as part of a subaward.

Proposals must be submitted through Research.gov or Grants.gov and adhere to the NSF Proposal and Award Policies and Procedures Guide (PAPPG). Collaborative proposals from multiple institutions must be submitted through Research.gov. Proposals must include a data management plan outlining strategies for sharing and managing research data, as well as a postdoctoral mentoring plan if applicable. Compliance with federal, state, and international regulations, including obtaining necessary permits for research activities, is required.

Evaluation of proposals follows the NSF's merit review process, which assesses both Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts. Reviewers consider the potential of the proposed research to advance knowledge, benefit society, and contribute to workforce development and education. Projects are also evaluated for creativity, feasibility, and the qualifications of the research team. Proposals that effectively integrate research and education, foster diversity, and demonstrate strong plans for assessment are prioritized.

Proposals are accepted on an ongoing basis, with no fixed deadlines. Applicants are encouraged to contact program officers to discuss project suitability, especially for interdisciplinary proposals. Reporting requirements for funded projects include annual reports, final project reports, and public-facing project outcomes summaries. Further information can be obtained through the NSF Tectonics Program website or by contacting program officers directly via email at tectonics@nsf.gov.