The National Science Foundation (NSF) is offering funding through the Science of Science: Discovery, Communication and Impact (SoS:DCI) program. This initiative aims to enhance theoretical and empirical understanding of the social science of scientific discovery, communication, and its broader societal impacts. The program expands upon the former Science of Science and Innovation Policy (SciSIP) program and supports research efforts that examine the social and structural mechanisms of scientific discovery, improve scientific communication frameworks, and assess the public value and policy implications of scientific advancements.

SoS:DCI welcomes research proposals that employ rigorous empirical methodologies and interdisciplinary approaches to study scientific discovery at individual, organizational, and institutional levels. The program prioritizes projects that draw from and advance theoretical frameworks on the science of science, develop transformative models and analytical tools, and provide robust assessments of social and policy impacts. Proposals are expected to include comprehensive data management plans that align with open science principles to enhance public access to reliable and valid scientific materials.

NSF encourages proposals that contribute to strengthening the U.S.'s global leadership in science and national competitiveness across multiple domains. Specific areas of interest include strategies to diversify the scientific workforce and foster high-impact discoveries. The program particularly supports projects that promote broad participation in science, including those led by junior faculty, women, historically underrepresented groups, Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs), Research Undergraduate Institutions (RUIs), and institutions in Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) states. Collaboration and convergent research are strongly encouraged.

The SoS:DCI program funds multiple proposal types, including Standard Research Grants, Grants for Collaborative Research, Science of Science analyses applied to the biomedical research enterprise (SoS:BIO), and Conference Grants. Additionally, it participates in NSF's cross-cutting and cross-directorate funding opportunities, expanding the scope of research support available through the program.

Applications must adhere to NSF’s Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG) and be submitted through Research.gov or Grants.gov, depending on the chosen submission method. The program has two annual target deadlines for full proposal submissions: September 9 and February 10, recurring each year. NSF places high importance on broader impacts, encouraging applicants to demonstrate how their research will benefit society and contribute to achieving specific policy goals.

For inquiries, applicants may contact Thomas S. Woodson, the Program Director, via email at tswoodso@nsf.gov or by phone at (703) 292-8760. NSF also provides periodic office hours for program-related discussions, with upcoming sessions scheduled for November 13, 2024, December 19, 2024, January 17, 2025, and May 15, 2025. Interested researchers are encouraged to attend these sessions to gain further insights into the program and application process.