ECosystem for Leading Innovation in Plasma Science and Engineering
This grant provides funding for innovative research and workforce development in plasma science, encouraging collaboration across disciplines to tackle societal challenges while promoting diversity in STEM fields.
Description
The ECosystem for Leading Innovation in Plasma Science and Engineering (ECLIPSE) program, funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), supports translational research and workforce development at the intersection of fundamental plasma science and technological innovation. The initiative aims to address societal and technological challenges by fostering an inclusive, multidisciplinary ecosystem spanning multiple NSF directorates.
The ECLIPSE program emphasizes bridging fundamental plasma science research with practical applications, addressing issues such as plasma surface interactions, atmospheric pressure plasmas, dusty plasmas, novel sensors, computational modeling, chemical reactions in plasmas, and measurement systems. Examples of applications include advanced manufacturing, environmental remediation, microelectronics, space weather prediction, and photocatalytic processes.
Eligible proposals must clearly define the fundamental plasma science challenge and its relevance to more than one NSF program, as well as discuss the societal and technological impacts of addressing the challenge. Proposals must also demonstrate how they enhance diversity and broaden participation in STEM fields, particularly among underrepresented groups and institutions.
Proposals should begin with the identifying acronym "ECLIPSE" and be submitted to one of the associated NSF programs, such as those in the Directorate for Engineering, Geosciences, Mathematical and Physical Sciences, and STEM Education. Specific submission requirements, such as compliance with the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG) or the Grants.gov Application Guide, must be followed.
Annual deadlines vary across related programs. Proposals should be aligned with the program most closely related to the research goals, and secondary program options may be indicated. Researchers are encouraged to consult with program officers to ensure alignment with program objectives and suitability.
This initiative supports collaborations, including those involving Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Minority Serving Institutions, and EPSCoR-eligible jurisdictions. Proposals promoting workforce development for plasma science and engineering careers are strongly encouraged. Researchers aiming to leverage ECLIPSE funding are advised to carefully align their submissions with both fundamental research objectives and practical, societal outcomes.