Division of Integrative Organismal Biology Core Programs

The Division of Integrative Organismal Systems (IOS) within the Directorate for Biological Sciences at the National Science Foundation (NSF) offers support through its Core Programs Track and Integrative Research in Biology (IntBIO) Track. This funding initiative aims to enhance understanding of how organisms are structured and function as integrated units of biological organization. Research supported by this program spans across diverse biological disciplines, incorporating advanced experimental, computational, and theoretical approaches to generate fundamental and transformative biological insights. The Core Programs Track welcomes proposals in all primary scientific areas of the IOS, such as developmental biology, neural systems, biomechanics, physiological processes, symbiotic interactions, and genomics. It emphasizes studies that focus on organisms as complete biological entities and encourages interdisciplinary methods that bridge scales from molecular to ecological levels. Smaller single-investigator projects as well as large team efforts are encouraged, with budgets and durations tailored to project scope and complexity. The IntBIO Track specifically invites collaborative research that integrates multiple sub-disciplines within biology to tackle major biological questions. Proposals must demonstrate how interdisciplinary approaches lead to novel, synergistic biological discoveries that span multiple levels of organization. Required elements for IntBIO proposals include a graphical illustration of integration, clearly defined team roles, and inclusive training components. Proposals should be grounded in cutting-edge research methodologies and emphasize the broader scientific and societal impacts. Eligibility is restricted to accredited U.S. institutions of higher education and certain U.S.-based nonprofit organizations. There are no limits on the number of proposals per organization or principal investigator. All proposals must be submitted through Research.gov or Grants.gov following the guidelines in the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG). Letters of Intent and preliminary proposals are not required. Applications are accepted at any time, and proposals undergo review based on NSF's merit criteria—Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts. Special attention is given to inclusivity and the training of the future scientific workforce, particularly those from underrepresented communities. The program also encourages alignment with NSF strategic goals, including sustainability and bioeconomy development. Contact information for cluster-specific program directors is provided, and applicants are strongly encouraged to consult with them to ensure alignment with the appropriate program. Additional support mechanisms such as supplements for undergraduate, teacher, and post-baccalaureate involvement are also available.