Introducing New Funding Opportunities for Research
The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and the International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory have announced an exciting funding opportunity aimed at researchers interested in physical science research. This initiative marks a significant step in advancing various fields of study, specifically focusing on transport phenomena research aboard the unique laboratory of the ISS.
Funding Details
Up to $3.6 million is available for multiple projects that leverage the unique conditions of the orbiting laboratory. For more than a decade, NSF and the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS) have collaborated effectively, having allocated over $40 million in funding since their partnership began in 2015. This collaboration has supported 45 investigations that have successfully launched to the ISS, resulting in the publication of over 200 peer-reviewed articles.
Scope of Proposals
This funding opportunity encourages proposals in several critical areas:
- Fluid dynamics
- Particulate and multiphase processes
- Thermal transport systems
- Combustion and fire systems
- Nanoscale interactions
- Innovative manufacturing methods utilizing these transport phenomena
- Development of metallic and ceramic materials
Researchers are invited to create proposals that demonstrate how their projects will use the unique microgravity conditions on the ISS to enhance fundamental research, ultimately offering benefits to humanity. The reduced gravity environment of the ISS provides an excellent platform for studying fluid behavior and other phenomena that would be challenging to analyze on Earth.
Application Process
Before submitting full proposals, all interested researchers must first complete an ISS National Lab Feasibility Review Form to assess the feasibility of their proposed projects. This initial submission is crucial and has a deadline of January 12, 2026. Only proposals passing this review will be invited to submit full proposals by the deadline of March 4, 2026.
Recent Project Selections
Recently, NSF and CASIS selected six new research projects from previous solicitations, emphasizing advancements in transport phenomena and tissue engineering:
Transport Phenomena Projects
- Research from North Carolina State University and UC Berkeley will examine the flow of granular materials relevant to agriculture, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and 3D printing.
- A team from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is set to enhance prior studies about protein solution flow aimed at improving pharmaceutical manufacturing.
- Researchers from the University of Arizona and Virginia Tech will innovate methods to utilize acoustic waves in the optimization of electronics solder joints.
Tissue Engineering and Mechanobiology Projects
- An investigation led by Emory University will focus on how cells sense and respond to forces, offering insights that could enhance cancer diagnostics.
- Yupeng Chen and his team at the University of Connecticut aim to develop injectable nanomaterials to aid cartilage regeneration, potentially transforming osteoarthritis treatment.
- A project at the University of Puerto Rico will explore the effects of gravity on stem cell healing capabilities.
The collaborative effort among these institutions signifies the growing importance of space research in contemporary science. Researchers are keystone in enhancing the understanding of biological processes and material behaviors through innovative studies conducted in the microgravity environment of the ISS.
About the ISS National Laboratory
The ISS is a unique research facility that facilitates unprecedented research and technology development hallmarked by its ability to conduct experiments in microgravity. Managed by CASIS, the ISS National Laboratory supports non-NASA initiatives, advancing knowledge in many scientific fields and driving innovations that benefit life on Earth.
Contact Information
For more details about this funding opportunity or to inquire about the submission process, feel free to reach out to the media contact:
Patrick O'Neill
Phone: 904-806-0035
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of this funding opportunity?
This opportunity aims to promote research in physical science related to transport phenomena aboard the ISS.
Who can apply for the funding?
Researchers and institutions conducting fundamental science in the areas specified in the solicitation can apply.
What is the deadline for submitting proposals?
The proposal submission deadline is March 4, 2026, following a required Feasibility Review submission by January 12, 2026.
What prior research has been conducted related to these topics?
Numerous successful projects have been launched, resulting in significant advancements in both scientific understanding and technology development.
How does the ISS environment benefit scientific research?
The microgravity conditions of the ISS provide an unparalleled platform for studying various phenomena that would be difficult or impossible to replicate on Earth.
