Topology

The Topology program, offered by the National Science Foundation (NSF) through its Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences (MPS) and specifically the Division of Mathematical Sciences (DMS), supports fundamental research in the field of topology. NSF is an independent agency of the U.S. government, dedicated to advancing scientific progress across all disciplines. The Topology program is designed to foster advances in both theoretical and applied aspects of topological studies, including algebraic topology, geometric and differential topology, symplectic and contact structures, and related areas such as topological data analysis and quantum field theories. This program's scope includes a wide array of topological subfields. It funds research on chromatic, equivariant, motivic, and (un)stable homotopy theories, homology and cohomology theories, bordism and K-theory, knots and links, transformation groups, and more. It also includes support for developments in topological quantum field theories, infinity categories, and model categories. The inclusion of topological data analysis highlights its attention to emerging areas of interdisciplinary relevance. Through this funding opportunity, NSF aims to deepen the mathematical foundations of topology while enabling broader applications in science and engineering. The Topology program accepts proposals for both research projects and conferences, workshops, and similar events. For conference or travel proposals, applicants must use the program solicitation number PD 22-1267 and select the "Conference" or "Travel" proposal type in Research.gov. Submission windows for these proposals are from September 1 to September 30 and from April 1 to April 30 each year. Events with a budget not exceeding $50,000 must be submitted at least six months before the event date, while those requesting more than $50,000 must submit at least eight months in advance. Proposals must adhere to the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG) that is current at the time of the submission deadline. Submissions can be made through Research.gov or Grants.gov, with the guidelines for each system differing slightly as outlined in their respective guides. Applicants are encouraged to consult these documents closely to ensure compliance. Although no specific pre-application steps such as letters of intent are required, attention to submission policies and eligibility criteria is essential. Eligibility for the Topology program is broad and inclusive. It is open to a range of U.S.-based institutions and individuals, including public and private higher education institutions, nonprofits, and independent researchers. There is no mention of required matching funds or cost-sharing requirements. The program is open nationally with no stated geographic restrictions. Applicants with inquiries can contact program directors Swatee Naik ([email protected], 703-292-4876), Paulo M. Lima Filho ([email protected], 703-292-7972), or Tomek Bartoszynski ([email protected]), all of whom are affiliated with MPS/DMS. The next full proposal deadline is November 3, 2026, which falls on the first Tuesday of November and recurs annually. As such, this program offers recurring opportunities for applicants to engage with the NSF's goals in advancing topological research. Applications are reviewed competitively, and selected projects will receive funding based on intellectual merit, broader impacts, and alignment with NSF’s strategic goals. With a rigorous but accessible submission process and comprehensive support for topological research, this program represents a significant funding source for mathematicians engaged in this critical area.