The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science is soliciting applications through its Isotope Research and Development (R&D) and Production Program for a funding opportunity aimed at advancing isotope science. This program seeks to enhance isotope production and processing capabilities, particularly through artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), advanced chemistry, and separation science. The program prioritizes proposals that address isotope shortages, incorporate novel techniques, and contribute to training the next generation of nuclear scientists and engineers. Up to $11,000,000 in funding is available, with awards ranging between $100,000 and $750,000 annually for a two-year project period. A total of 8–12 awards are anticipated under this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), titled "Research, Development, and Training in Isotope Production" (DE-FOA-0003530).

The primary objective of the funding is to address critical shortages of radioactive and stable isotopes essential to various scientific and industrial applications, including medical diagnosis, national security, space exploration, and environmental research. Projects are expected to advance the DOE's mission to enhance isotope availability and foster innovation in production, processing, enrichment, recycling, and purification technologies. Specific areas of focus include the development of automation, robotics, AI/ML integration, novel phase-change chemistry, and separation techniques. Proposals related to stable isotopes such as deuterium and helium-3, as well as radioisotopes recoverable from waste streams, are encouraged. Applications promoting workforce development and the training of nuclear scientists are also highly prioritized.

Eligible applicants include DOE/NNSA National Laboratories, domestic higher education institutions, and nonprofit research organizations. For-profit entities may not apply but can participate as subrecipients. Multi-institutional teams are encouraged to apply, either through collaborative applications or subaward arrangements. Pre-applications are mandatory and must include key project details, such as a hypothesis, a concise description of the research approach, and a listing of personnel. Pre-applications that align with the NOFO’s research focus will be encouraged to submit full applications.

Applications must adhere to the DOE's submission guidelines and include detailed budgets, biographical sketches, and conflict-of-interest disclosures for senior personnel. Proposals will be evaluated based on scientific merit, innovation, relevance to DOE’s mission, technical feasibility, and the strength of training components. Cost sharing is not required, and awards will be contingent upon funding availability, demonstrated progress, and compliance with DOE terms.

The program emphasizes compliance with federal guidelines, including export controls and nonproliferation protocols. Research outcomes must be open for publication and adhere to principles of reproducibility and data sharing. Applications involving restricted data or commercial isotope production activities will not be considered. The DOE will provide an informational webinar to assist applicants and recommends early registration in necessary systems, such as Grants.gov and PAMS.

Key deadlines for pre-application and full application submission are specified in the NOFO document. Awards are expected to be announced after thorough merit review, with project periods typically beginning between December 1 and June 30. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact DOE program managers for guidance and additional information prior to submission.