The Division of Environmental Biology (DEB) at the National Science Foundation (NSF) supports research and training on evolutionary and ecological processes at various levels of biological organization, from populations to ecosystems. DEB encourages research that elucidates fundamental principles explaining the unity and diversity of life and its interactions with the environment. Research may involve field, laboratory, or collection-based approaches, including observational or manipulative studies, synthesis activities, phylogenetic discovery projects, or theoretical approaches involving analytical, statistical, or computational modeling. DEB welcomes interdisciplinary proposals integrating multiple spatial and temporal scales. Additionally, research related to marine biomes should be directed to the Biological Oceanography Program or Evolutionary Processes/Systematics and Biodiversity Science programs in DEB.

Aligned with the NSF Strategic Plan, DEB aims to empower STEM talent, advance the frontiers of research, and benefit society through knowledge translation. The program encourages participation from diverse groups, including underrepresented populations, Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs), and two-year colleges. DEB is particularly interested in proposals addressing priority areas such as building a resilient planet, biotechnology, and bioeconomy, as highlighted in the CHIPs Act of 2022 and the Executive Order on Advancing Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing Innovation.