Mid-Career Advancement

The National Science Foundation (NSF), an independent federal agency established to support research and education in all scientific and engineering disciplines, offers the Mid-Career Advancement (MCA) program. This initiative aims to empower mid-career scientists and engineers, particularly those at the Associate Professor level, by providing the protected time and resources necessary to enhance their research programs and professional development. This support addresses the career stagnation that often arises from increased service and teaching obligations, enabling a more inclusive and diverse scientific workforce. The MCA program is unique in its cross-directorate structure, accepting proposals through participating programs within the Directorates for Biological Sciences, Geosciences, Social, Behavioral and Economic Sciences, and STEM Education. A notable pilot track under the Biological Sciences and Geosciences Directorates allows Full Professors at Primarily Undergraduate Institutions (PUIs) to apply, broadening the scope of eligible applicants. The MCA promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging partnerships beyond the PI’s primary discipline to foster convergence research and innovative problem-solving. Funding for the MCA is substantial, with an anticipated budget of $14 to $18 million and an estimated 35 to 45 awards distributed annually. Each grant allows for up to 6.5 months of the PI’s salary and up to $100,000 in direct costs over a three-year period. This funding includes coverage for a networking meeting at NSF headquarters and optional support for a partner’s attendance. Notably, cost-sharing is not permitted, and proposals must adhere to NSF’s standard proposal guidelines as outlined in the Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG). Eligibility is primarily restricted to mid-career Associate Professors with at least three years at that rank. Full Professors at PUIs may also apply under specific conditions. Proposals must originate from accredited U.S.-based institutions of higher education or from non-profit, non-academic organizations with research affiliations. Each proposal requires detailed documentation, including an impact statement, letters of support from a collaborative partner and a department head, and a comprehensive project description outlining the PI's research history, advancement plan, and long-term career strategy. The MCA application process is managed through Research.gov or Grants.gov, with a submission window each year from February 1 to March 1. Proposals undergo a thorough review based on NSF’s merit review criteria: Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts, with additional considerations specific to the MCA’s goals. Reviewers assess the potential for research advancement, the strength of the proposed collaboration, and the likelihood of long-term academic benefit to the PI. For assistance, applicants may contact the program officers via email at MCA.info@nsf.gov or Leslie Rissler at lrissler@nsf.gov, or by phone at (703) 292-4628. Detailed information and updates about the program are available on the NSF website. Interested parties are encouraged to consult the program officers to ensure their research aligns with the program’s scope and objectives.