Social Psychology

The Social Psychology Program is a funding initiative administered by the National Science Foundation (NSF), specifically through its Directorate for Social, Behavioral and Economic Sciences (SBE) and the Division of Behavioral and Cognitive Sciences (SBE/BCS). The NSF is an independent federal agency tasked with advancing scientific research across a wide range of disciplines. This program supports theoretically driven empirical investigations aimed at deepening our understanding of human social behavior, attitudes, and experiences. The program invites research and infrastructure proposals that investigate how individual and group behaviors are shaped by both micro- and macro-level social dynamics. Projects are expected to employ empirical methods to explore mechanisms including but not limited to thought processes, emotional and motivational influences, neural and physiological responses, and how these intersect with social contexts. While foundational in scope, the program encourages work that connects to global societal challenges. Priority is given to studies with high potential for significant contributions to the field and broader societal impact. Acceptable proposals may include new theoretical models, innovative methodological approaches, and cross-disciplinary frameworks. Although the program accepts a range of proposal types—including CAREER, RUI, RAPID, EAGER, and small conference proposals—it does not fund doctoral dissertation improvement awards or mid-career advancement proposals. Studies involving non-human animals are only considered if their primary contribution enhances understanding of human social behavior. Proposals with clinical treatment objectives, disease-related goals, or mental or physical health diagnoses as focal points are not eligible and may be returned without review. Applicants must ensure proposals adhere to current NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG) guidelines and meet all specified criteria. Research must be theoretically grounded, empirically validated, and designed with methodologies suited to the research questions. Proposals will be evaluated based on intellectual merit and broader impacts. The latter includes contributions to societal well-being, national security, public engagement, education, and scientific infrastructure. Plans for public dissemination of research outcomes are also prioritized. The NSF mandates open science practices and expects researchers to provide a Data Management and Sharing Plan in line with best practices. Deviations must be explicitly justified. Proposals should be submitted via Research.gov or Grants.gov using program identifier PD 22-1332. Principal Investigators (PIs) are encouraged to contact a program director with a one-page summary outlining intellectual merit, broader impacts, and references before submitting full proposals. This communication helps determine the alignment between proposed work and program goals. The next submission target dates are January 15 and July 15, 2026, and these target dates recur annually. The program is currently accepting applications. Contacts for the program include Dr. Jessi L. Smith, Program Director (jlsmith@nsf.gov, 703-292-8740), and Tanika M. Malloy, Program Specialist (tmalloy@nsf.gov, 703-292-2484). Researchers interested in serving as reviewers can complete a survey to indicate their qualifications and interest. All NSF financial assistance awards made on or after October 1, 2024, will be subject to updated award conditions consistent with revised federal guidance issued in April 2024.

Submit summary before full application; ensure alignment with program; avoid disease-focused proposals