NSF-DFG Lead Agency Opportunity in Chemistry and Chemical Process and Transport Systems

The National Science Foundation (NSF) has announced the NSF-DFG Lead Agency Opportunity in Chemistry and Chemical Process and Transport Systems, under funding opportunity number 25-537. This opportunity reflects a formal collaboration between NSF and the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG), or German Research Foundation, to enhance scientific partnerships between the United States and Germany. This bilateral initiative is grounded in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two organizations, which outlines a framework for supporting cooperative international research. The MoU aims to encourage joint activities that leverage the strengths of research institutions in both countries, enabling innovative projects that benefit from cross-border expertise. This funding opportunity supports collaborative proposals in the areas of chemistry and chemical process and transport systems. Specifically, the NSF divisions participating are the Division of Chemistry (CHE) and the Division of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental and Transport Systems (CBET), while the DFG includes its Divisions of Physics and Chemistry (PC) and Engineering Sciences (ING 1). The objective is to facilitate binational research efforts through a single review process. Proposals are to be jointly written and submitted by researchers in the U.S. and Germany. Depending on the primary research focus, the proposal will be reviewed by either NSF or DFG, with input from relevant program divisions on both sides before final funding decisions are made. Each proposal must clearly articulate the rationale for collaboration and the unique contributions each partner brings to the project. Proposals should adhere to the standard budget and timeline parameters established by the individual CHE, CBET, PC, and ING 1 programs, and applicants are strongly encouraged to consult the detailed program descriptions. US-based researchers can access guidance via the NSF's international collaboration page, while German researchers are advised to consult the DFG’s relevant portal. Funding from the NSF for successful proposals will be provided in the form of discretionary grants. The total program funding available from the NSF is $5,000,000, with individual awards expected to range from $200,000 to $700,000. The anticipated number of awards is approximately 10, though final numbers may vary based on proposal quality and budget considerations. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement for applicants. Proposals are accepted on a rolling basis, with no fixed submission deadlines, allowing applicants flexibility in timing their submissions according to project readiness and partner coordination. Eligibility is restricted to non-profit, non-academic research organizations and accredited institutions of higher education within the United States. Eligible non-profits include independent museums, observatories, laboratories, and professional societies directly tied to research or educational missions. U.S. institutions proposing to include their international branch campuses in the scope of work must justify the necessity and benefit of performing activities abroad instead of at the U.S. campus. Proposals must include a justification of the partnership’s added scientific value, particularly focusing on the synergy and complementary expertise between the U.S. and German teams. Interested applicants should refer to NSF Publication 25-537 and direct any issues related to application access or document linkage to NSF’s grants.gov support at grantsgovsupport@nsf.gov. Since there are no predefined deadlines, applicants can submit at their convenience, but are advised to carefully coordinate timing with their German partners and funding agencies. This opportunity remains continuously open unless otherwise updated by the funding agencies.