Particulate and Multiphase Processes

The Particulate and Multiphase Processes program, part of the Transport Phenomena cluster within the NSF's Division of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental, and Transport Systems (ENG/CBET), supports fundamental research on the physico-chemical phenomena governing particulate and multiphase systems. This includes the flow of suspensions, drops, bubbles, granular-fluid flows, micro- and nanostructured fluids, and self-assembly processes involving particulates. The focus is on understanding how particle-scale phenomena affect the behavior and dynamics of larger-scale systems, with applications in advanced manufacturing, energy harvesting, biotechnology, environmental sustainability, and biological transport systems. Research areas of interest include multiphase flow phenomena such as the dynamics of particle/bubble/droplet systems and the rheology of multiphase systems; particle science and technology, including self-assembly and aerosol particle production; multiphase transport in biological systems, particularly functionalized nanostructures for diagnostics and therapeutics; and interfacial transport, such as particle interactions at interfaces and the spatial distribution of nanoparticles and surfactants. Proposals should emphasize transformative and innovative research, with clear societal and industrial benefits. Collaborative, interdisciplinary proposals that combine experimental work with theory or modeling are encouraged. Projects focusing on related topics, such as engineered surfaces for chemical reactions, fluid-structure interactions, or particle synthesis, may be redirected to more suitable NSF programs like Electrochemical Systems, Fluid Dynamics, or Advanced Manufacturing. Awards typically support single investigators with funding for one graduate student and up to one month of PI time annually, with a typical duration of up to three years. Larger budgets for multi-investigator projects should be discussed with the program director before submission. The program also welcomes proposals for the Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) program, Grants for Rapid Response Research (RAPID), EArly-concept Grants for Exploratory Research (EAGER), and Grant Opportunities for Academic Liaison with Industry (GOALI), provided they align with program objectives. Proposals must comply with the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG) and emphasize the novelty and transformative potential of the research. They should address how the findings could impact engineering science and broader societal or industrial challenges. Proposals can be submitted year-round, but investigators are encouraged to consult program directors before submitting EAGER, RAPID, or GOALI proposals. For further guidance, applicants are encouraged to contact the program directors, Shahab Shojaei-Zadeh (sshojaei@nsf.gov) and Fangyu Cao (fcao@nsf.gov).