NSF Physics Frontiers Centers (PFC): Harvard Pre-Proposal Deadline

NSF Physics Frontiers Centers (PFC)
Harvard Pre-Proposal Deadline: May 28, 2019 by 12:00 PM
Sponsor Preliminary Proposal Deadline (if nominated): August 1, 2019 by 5:00 PMAward Amount: Individual awards are expected to range in size between $1M/year and $5M/year for five years, with an option for a one-year extension. The number of awards in FY 2020 is expected to be 3-5.

The Physics Frontiers Centers (PFC) program supports university-based centers and institutes where the collective efforts of a larger group of individuals can enable transformational advances in the most promising research areas. The PFC program is designed to provide support to enable research at the frontiers of physics when the activities are of a scope and complexity that would not be feasible with standard individual investigator or small group support. All sub-fields of physics within the purview of the Division of Physics are supported: atomic, molecular, optical, plasma, elementary particle, nuclear, particle astro, gravitational, and biological physics. Interdisciplinary projects at the interface between these physics areas and other disciplines and physics sub-fields may also be considered, although the bulk of the effort must fall within one of the areas within the purview of the Division of Physics. The successful PFC activity will demonstrate:

1. the potential for a profound advance in physics;
2. creative, substantive activities aimed at enhancing education, diversity, and public outreach;
3. potential for broader impacts, e.g., impacts on other field(s) and benefits to society; and
4. a synergy or value-added rationale that justifies a center- or institute-like approach.

This is a limited submission opportunity and Harvard may submit only two preliminary proposals. The Office of the Vice Provost for Research will conduct the internal competition to select the Harvard nominees. To be considered for the Harvard nomination, potential applicants must submit an internal pre-proposal via the link above. Any one individual may be the PI or co-PI for only one preliminary proposal.