NSF Research: Computational Mathematics

The National Science Foundation (NSF), a federal agency dedicated to promoting scientific progress, administers the Computational Mathematics Program through its Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences (MPS), specifically under the Division of Mathematical Sciences (DMS). This program supports mathematical research in areas where computational approaches are central. It places a strong emphasis on the development and analysis of theoretically justified, efficient algorithms and their implementation in solving significant application-driven problems. This initiative underlines NSF’s commitment to advancing foundational mathematical techniques while addressing real-world scientific and engineering challenges. The primary aim of the Computational Mathematics Program is to support projects that combine theoretical innovation with practical implementation. Proposals may be submitted by individual investigators or interdisciplinary teams, and the NSF encourages submissions that involve the development of innovative computational methods. These projects should not only offer theoretical contributions but must also demonstrate the practical application of algorithms to relevant scientific or engineering problems. The NSF also encourages the integration of research and education by promoting the training and development of junior computational mathematicians through direct involvement in the proposed research. Funding is available for a wide range of research activities within the scope of computational mathematics. In addition to research proposals, the program also considers conference and workshop proposals. However, such proposals must adhere to the specific solicitation titled "Conferences and Workshops in the Mathematical Sciences." Events held in the United States must be proposed at least six months in advance, while proposals for international travel groups must be submitted at least eight months before the event. If the requested budget for the conference exceeds $50,000, proposals must be submitted during the official program’s annual submission window. Non-conforming submissions will be returned without review unless an exception is granted. All applications must comply with the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG) that is effective on the proposal’s due date. Proposals submitted via Research.gov must follow the PAPPG instructions, while those submitted via Grants.gov must adhere to the NSF Grants.gov Application Guide. Submission of proposals outside the specified annual submission window (November 16 – December 1) will not be considered. This window recurs annually, and submissions are due by 5:00 p.m. local time of the submitting organization. Eligibility for the program includes a range of applicants, including public and private institutions of higher education and other organizations engaged in advanced mathematical research. While specific restrictions are not detailed, the program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and projects that include training components for junior researchers. The NSF also maintains a policy framework aligned with federal research security requirements, including a mandate for research security training, foreign talent recruitment certification, and adherence to updated disclosure timelines. For direct inquiries, applicants may contact program directors Yuliya Gorb (ygorb@nsf.gov, 703-292-2113), Jodi Mead (jmead@nsf.gov, 703-292-7212), Ludmil Zikatanov (lzikatan@nsf.gov, 703-292-2175), or Troy D. Butler (tdbutler@nsf.gov, 703-292-2084). These contacts are based within the MPS/DMS division of NSF. The full program guidelines are listed under Program Element Code PD 16-1271, and more information is available on the NSF website.