The National Science Foundation (NSF) is inviting applications for its grant titled "Building Synthetic Microbial Communities for Biology, Mitigating Climate Change, Sustainability and Biotechnology" (Funding Opportunity Number: 25-501). This opportunity focuses on advancing research in the field of synthetic microbial communities, with an aim to harness their diverse capabilities for societal benefit. The NSF expects to fund approximately 12 awards under this program, with a total program funding of $10 million. The closing date for applications is February 3, 2025.

The purpose of this grant is to explore the potential of synthetic microbial communities, which are engineered to be less complex but more controllable than natural communities. By using these simplified systems, researchers can address fundamental questions related to biology, ecosystem sustainability, and the impact of microbes on different hosts. The grant aims to support projects that investigate how synthetic microbial communities form, maintain stability, and function in various environments. Additionally, projects may focus on creating synthetic communities with novel properties, providing insight into the biological principles that drive these new capabilities.

This funding opportunity is particularly relevant for researchers interested in climate resiliency, sustainability, and biotechnology. Projects that address core biological principles at any level—from molecular to ecosystem scale—are encouraged. The ultimate goal of the program is to develop a comprehensive knowledge base that will enable scientists to design microbial communities for practical applications, such as enhancing climate resilience, sustainable agricultural practices, and biomanufacturing processes.

Eligible applicants for this grant include non-profit, non-academic organizations, such as independent museums, observatories, research laboratories, and professional societies that are engaged in research or educational activities within the U.S. Institutions of higher education (both two-year and four-year, including community colleges) accredited in the United States are also eligible. If an international branch campus of a U.S. institution is included, applicants must justify why the work cannot be completed at the U.S. campus and explain the specific benefits of involving the international branch.

There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement for this funding opportunity, which broadens accessibility for institutions that might have limited resources for matching funds. Applicants are encouraged to focus on projects that have the potential to contribute significantly to both scientific understanding and practical applications in biotechnology, sustainability, and climate mitigation.

To apply, organizations must submit their proposals by February 3, 2025, through the appropriate NSF submission channels. The grant documentation provides detailed submission guidelines, and prospective applicants are encouraged to carefully review these instructions to ensure compliance. Additionally, there are specific considerations for international branch campuses, as any proposed funding for these branches must be explicitly justified.

Overall, this funding opportunity presents a significant chance for researchers working in synthetic biology and microbial systems to contribute to the understanding and application of microbial communities in addressing global challenges. Successful projects will likely have broad implications, not only advancing scientific knowledge but also contributing to solutions for pressing societal issues related to climate change, sustainability, and biotechnology.