The NSF-AFRL Research in Floquet Engineered Quantum Systems program is a collaborative initiative between the National Science Foundation and the Air Force Research Laboratory to advance the understanding of quantum systems influenced by time-periodic driving forces. The program seeks innovative approaches to create, control, and conserve fragile quantum states, which are critical for realizing the transformational capabilities of quantum science. This opportunity aligns with the National Quantum Initiative and supports the National Science and Technology Council's strategy to broaden interagency collaboration and increase global competitiveness in quantum information science and engineering research, strengthening national security and technology innovation.

This program encourages proposals from multidisciplinary research teams consisting of multiple principal investigators from at least two different institutions. Each team should integrate complementary expertise in areas such as theory, experimentation, materials, device fabrication, and testing. Proposals are expected to address research themes related to nonequilibrium quantum states, with potential applications across quantum sensing, quantum devices, quantum materials, and quantum systems. Teams may include experts in photonics, quantum optics, classical and quantum materials, and integrated quantum systems, with a focus on achieving performance metrics unattainable in equilibrium states.

The program emphasizes three overarching goals: leading interagency collaboration in quantum science and engineering research through mid-scale, team-based approaches; integrating theory, experimentation, and data-intensive methods to explore Floquet engineering applications in quantum systems; and developing a science and engineering workforce trained for careers in academia or industry, particularly in materials, devices, and systems relevant to quantum fields.

Eligible applicants include accredited two- and four-year institutions of higher education in the United States, including community colleges. International branch campuses of U.S. institutions are eligible but must provide clear justification for conducting project activities outside the United States. Principal investigators and co-principal investigators must hold full-time, paid research or teaching positions at eligible U.S.-based institutions. Proposals require a minimum of one principal investigator and two co-principal investigators representing at least two institutions.

The total estimated program funding is three million dollars. The award floor is three million dollars, and no specific award ceiling is stated. The closing date for applications is March 14, 2025. Applications must be submitted in accordance with NSF proposal preparation guidelines through Research.gov or Grants.gov. Additional information, including detailed submission requirements, can be found in NSF Publication 25-520. For assistance, applicants can contact NSF grants support at grantsgovsupport@nsf.gov.