High-Energy-Density Laboratory Plasma Science

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) are soliciting applications for research in High-Energy-Density Laboratory Plasma Science through the SC-NNSA Joint Program in High-Energy-Density Laboratory Plasmas. This funding opportunity is open to new and renewal applications for Fiscal Year 2025, with a focus on advancing fundamental high-energy-density science (HEDS). Researchers are encouraged to address key questions in HEDS, such as matter behavior under extreme conditions, astrophysical jet formation, dense cosmic body simulations, and the origin of magnetic fields in the universe. The program is particularly interested in projects that align with DOE's strategic goals and recent reports like the 2020 FESAC Long-Range Plan and the 2023 National Academies report on high-energy-density science. The total anticipated funding is up to $7 million, with individual awards ranging from $200,000 to $750,000 for a duration of one to three years. Eight to twelve awards are expected. Applications may focus on experimental, theoretical, or computational research in one of five topical areas: relativistic HED plasmas, nonlinear optics and laser-plasma interactions, HED hydrodynamics, warm dense matter, or radiation-dominated dynamics and material properties. Multi-institutional teams are encouraged, but the lead institution must perform the majority of the scientific work. Collaborative applications must include all team members as subrecipients in a single submission. Eligibility for this funding opportunity extends to most domestic applicants, except nonprofit organizations engaging in lobbying after December 31, 1995. DOE/NNSA National Laboratories, other Federal agencies, and non-DOE/NNSA Federally Funded Research and Development Centers are not eligible to apply or participate as subrecipients. Principal Investigators (PIs) must hold long-term or permanent positions at their institutions, and individuals funded by DOE/NNSA National Laboratories may not serve as PIs but can be included as senior/key personnel. Cost sharing is not required or considered in the review process. Applicants must submit a mandatory Letter of Intent (LOI) by the deadline specified on the NOFO cover page. The LOI should include the project title, PI contact information, team composition, and a concise description of the proposed research (maximum of two pages). LOIs must be submitted electronically through the DOE SC Portfolio Analysis and Management System (PAMS). Full applications must be submitted through Grants.gov and include the required forms and documentation, such as a project narrative, budget, and letters of collaboration or access (if applicable). Applications will be evaluated based on scientific and technical merit, the qualifications of the research team, and the potential impact of the proposed work on the field of high-energy-density science. Multi-institutional teams should demonstrate clear collaboration and shared responsibility across institutions. Awards will be granted based on merit, funding availability, and alignment with DOE/NNSA goals. Additionally, projects must comply with DOE’s commitment to open science, export controls, and nonproliferation policies. Deadlines for submission, including the LOI and full application, are listed in the NOFO. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit materials well in advance of the deadlines to ensure compliance and allow time for revisions if needed. For technical or administrative questions, applicants may contact the program officials listed in the NOFO.