The National Science Foundation (NSF) Paleo Perspectives on Present and Projected Climate (P4CLIMATE) grant program (NSF 22-612) supports interdisciplinary research to advance understanding of climate change by leveraging data from geological records and environmental archives. This program encourages research that complements historical and modern climate observations by examining long-term climate behaviors, including tipping points and feedback mechanisms, through paleo data. The NSF’s Directorate for Geosciences (GEO) leads this initiative with divisions specializing in Atmospheric, Earth, Ocean Sciences, and the Office of Polar Programs.

The program specifically targets research within two main themes: 1) *Past Regional and Seasonal Climate* and 2) *Past Climate Forcing, Sensitivity, and Feedbacks*. The first theme emphasizes understanding climate variability at regional and seasonal levels, especially as it relates to contemporary climate impacts such as extreme weather and hydroclimate changes. The second theme focuses on climate feedbacks and forcing mechanisms, aiming to clarify how climate system responses to greenhouse gases, aerosols, and other drivers affect climate sensitivity. Projects exploring processes such as permafrost thaw, sea-level change, and atmospheric composition shifts are encouraged.

Eligible applicants are universities and research institutions with a focus on advancing geoscientific knowledge through rigorous interdisciplinary study. The program anticipates awarding approximately 35 new grants annually, with an average duration of three years and a total budget of up to $14 million, contingent on available funds. Awards will be made either as standard grants or continuing grants, and cost-sharing is prohibited.

Proposals must be submitted through Research.gov or Grants.gov following the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG). Proposals should outline a data management plan that aligns with the FAIR principles (Findability, Accessibility, Interoperability, and Reusability) to ensure broad accessibility of research data. Additionally, the program promotes diversity and encourages the involvement of early-career researchers, predominantly undergraduate institutions, and minority-serving institutions.

The review process involves both ad hoc and panel reviews, assessing proposals based on NSF’s core criteria: *Intellectual Merit* and *Broader Impacts*. The P4CLIMATE program additionally expects proposals to demonstrate alignment with its specific research themes and address data management and stakeholder engagement where applicable.

Proposals are due annually by October 20, with recommendations and feedback provided through NSF’s established review channels. Post-award requirements include submitting annual project reports and a final report detailing project outcomes and broader impacts. For additional guidance, applicants can contact NSF program officers or access support through Research.gov or Grants.gov.