Combinatorics

The Combinatorics program administered by the U.S. National Science Foundation supports fundamental research on discrete mathematical structures and their applications. As part of the Division of Mathematical Sciences within the Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences, this program promotes the advancement of combinatorial theory and methodology across algebraic, enumerative, existential, extremal, geometric, and probabilistic contexts, including graph theory. By funding projects that explore discrete systems, the program seeks to deepen understanding of mathematical relationships that form the foundation for numerous disciplines, such as computer science, operations research, and data analytics. This funding opportunity is part of NSF’s commitment to fostering scientific discovery and innovation within the mathematical sciences. The program welcomes proposals that aim to develop new combinatorial techniques, explore structural properties of discrete objects, or establish connections between combinatorics and other areas such as algebra, topology, or probability theory. The program also supports proposals for conferences, workshops, and related gatherings that facilitate collaboration and knowledge dissemination among researchers, particularly those advancing emerging subfields or bridging interdisciplinary applications. Applicants must adhere to the NSF Proposal and Award Policies and Procedures Guide (PAPPG) relevant to the due date of submission. Proposals can be submitted through either Research.gov or Grants.gov, using the corresponding NSF application guide. For conference or workshop proposals, Principal Investigators must consult the solicitation “Conferences and Workshops in the Mathematical Sciences” and submit their proposals at least six months before the intended conference date, ideally within the same fiscal year, which begins on October 1. Each proposal should clearly define the intellectual merit and broader impacts of the research, following NSF’s standard merit review criteria. There are no cost-sharing or matching requirements under this program. While the expected number of awards and total funding vary annually, successful applicants typically receive support sufficient to sustain multiyear research efforts or collaborative initiatives. The number and size of awards depend on the quality of proposals and the availability of funds within the Division of Mathematical Sciences. The opportunity falls under Assistance Listing 47.049, supporting projects in Mathematical and Physical Sciences. Eligibility for this opportunity is unrestricted, meaning that all categories of organizations—including higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profit entities, and individuals—are eligible to apply, provided their proposals align with NSF’s research mission and compliance standards. Applications are due on September 22, 2026, and the program follows an annual submission cycle with deadlines occurring on the fourth Tuesday in September thereafter. Awards are typically announced several months following the close of the submission window, allowing adequate time for peer review and funding allocation. Program inquiries can be directed to Program Directors Dr. Stefaan De Winter (sgdewint@nsf.gov, 703-292-2599) and Dr. Tomek Bartoszynski (tbartosz@nsf.gov, 703-292-4885) at the Division of Mathematical Sciences. Additional guidance, including full solicitation details, can be accessed on NSF’s website under the Combinatorics program listing (PD-18-7970).

Ensure alignment with NSF merit review criteria (intellectual merit and broader impacts); submit well before deadline to avoid technical issues.