VUMC Limited Submission Opportunity: NSF Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) program; deadline is Sept. 30
VUMC: These instructions are for VUMC investigators. VU investigators should apply through InfoReady and address any questions to VU-LSO@vanderbilt.edu.
Overview:
VUMC may submit up to 3 proposals for the NSF Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) Program, which serves to increase access to multi-user scientific and engineering instrumentation for research and research training. An MRI award supports the acquisition or development of a multi-user research instrument that is too costly and/or not appropriate for support through other NSF programs.
MRI provides support to acquire critical research instrumentation without which advances in fundamental science and engineering research may not otherwise occur. MRI also provides support to develop next-generation research instruments that open new opportunities to advance the frontiers in science and engineering research. Additionally, an MRI award is expected to enhance research training of students who will become the next generation of instrument users, designers and builders.
An MRI proposal may request up to $4 million for either acquisition or development of a research instrument. VUMC is limited to 3 total submissions across the two tracks below, with no more than two submissions in Track 1 and no more than one submission in Track 2.
- Track 1: MRI proposals that request $100,000 – less than $1,000,000
- Track 2: MRI proposals that request $1,000,000 - $4,000,000
Eligibility:
· Please consult the Program Description (Section II.A-B) for a detailed description of project types and fields of science that are eligible for funding.
· The MRI Program seeks broad representation by PIs in its award portfolio, including women, underrepresented minorities and persons with disabilities. The MRI program also encourages proposals with early-career PIs and proposals that benefit early-career researchers.
· IMPORTANT NOTE: For either track, Cost-sharing of precisely 30% of the total project cost is required! Inclusion of voluntary committed cost-sharing is prohibited.
Internal Application Process:
Anyone interested in being considered to submit one of VUMC’s proposals must submit the following (in a single PDF) to LSO@vanderbilt.edu by 5 p.m. on Sept. 30:
- Brief (2 page maximum) project description including summary budget
- Brief statement of support from department chair/center director including a department or center commitment to the REQUIRED 30% cost-sharing
- NIH Biosketch
Please review the solicitation and the FAQs for more information regarding the program. Following the internal process, the full proposal is due to NSF by January 19. Any questions about this opportunity may be directed to LSO@vanderbilt.edu.