EDU Core Research

The National Science Foundation (NSF), an independent federal agency established by Congress in 1950, supports scientific and engineering research and education across a range of disciplines. It aims to promote the progress of science, advance national health, prosperity, welfare, and security, and supports about one-fourth of federal funding for academic research. The NSF Directorate for STEM Education (EDU) manages the EDU Core Research (ECR:Core) program, which is part of its efforts to strengthen U.S. leadership in STEM education through foundational research. The ECR:Core solicitation invites proposals for fundamental, curiosity-driven, or use-inspired basic research that builds general, explanatory knowledge in three main Research Areas: STEM Learning and Learning Environments, Broadening Participation in STEM, and STEM Workforce Development. This research is intended to enhance understanding in STEM education and is expected to have long-term and indirect implications for practice rather than immediate applications. The NSF encourages interdisciplinary approaches and proposals that build upon diverse disciplinary foundations. Funding under this solicitation is categorized into three levels based on the maturity and scope of the proposed work: Level I (up to $500,000), Level II (up to $1,500,000), and Level III (up to $2,500,000), with project durations ranging from three to five years. Additionally, the program supports pilot studies, synthesis projects, and conferences. The total anticipated funding for this program is $35 million, with an estimated 40 awards across the different levels. Cost-sharing is not permitted, and standard NSF reporting and administrative requirements apply. Eligibility to apply is open to all categories specified in the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG), except unaffiliated individuals. There are no limits on the number of proposals per organization or individual. Proposals must be submitted via Research.gov or Grants.gov following detailed NSF guidelines, including a comprehensive research plan, dissemination strategy, assessment of project success, and justification for funding level and duration. The application process involves full proposals only, due by 5 p.m. local time on the first Thursday in October annually. The evaluation process uses the NSF’s standard merit review criteria: Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts, considering the potential to advance knowledge and benefit society. Questions regarding the program can be directed to ECR@nsf.gov, and technical support is available via NSF’s and Grants.gov’s help desks.