Geospace Environment Modeling

The National Science Foundation (NSF) Geospace Environment Modeling (GEM) program is a research initiative aimed at improving the understanding and prediction of the Earth's geospace environment, focusing on the physics of the magnetosphere and its interactions with the atmosphere and solar wind. The goal is to create more accurate models of the geospace system through a combination of theory, observation, and modeling. The program supports basic research that contributes to the development of predictive models of the Earth's magnetosphere and its relationship with space weather phenomena. GEM places a strong emphasis on advancing numerical simulations and model validation. The program encourages proposals that address key aspects of geospace dynamics, including interactions between the magnetosphere and other atmospheric layers, as well as the effects of the solar wind. Submissions are also encouraged in cutting-edge research areas, such as the application of machine learning and artificial intelligence to model development, and comparative studies of Earth's magnetosphere with other planetary bodies. The GEM program also supports an annual workshop for researchers to share findings and collaborate, and it actively encourages student participation. The anticipated funding for the program is $3 million annually, with 10 to 15 awards expected each year, contingent on the availability of funds. Award sizes typically range from $150,000 to $200,000 per year for up to five years. This funding is aimed at supporting both large-scale observational studies and theoretical research that can enhance geospace modeling capabilities. Eligibility for submitting proposals is broad, and most U.S. organizations are eligible, as defined in the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG). There are no restrictions on who may serve as a principal investigator (PI), but each PI or co-PI is limited to submitting two proposals per year. The program encourages participation from early-career researchers and diverse research teams to foster innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. Full proposals must be submitted via Research.gov or Grants.gov. The program does not require letters of intent or preliminary proposals. Proposals should strictly adhere to the NSF's guidelines, and they must include detailed descriptions of how the proposed research relates to the program's focus areas. Proposers are advised to contact program officers for clarification or to ensure the relevance of their proposals to the program. The review process follows NSF’s standard merit review principles, focusing on two key criteria: intellectual merit and broader impacts. Proposals are evaluated on their potential to advance knowledge in the field and their contributions to societal outcomes, such as STEM education, diversity in the research workforce, and public engagement with science. Successful applicants are expected to provide regular progress reports to NSF, detailing their accomplishments, project impacts, and future plans. The next submission deadline is September 30, 2024, with future deadlines recurring annually on September 30. Researchers interested in applying should prepare to meet these timelines and ensure their proposals are aligned with the program's goals and submission guidelines.