Computational Mathematics

The National Science Foundation (NSF), through its Division of Mathematical Sciences (DMS), offers the Computational Mathematics Program to support fundamental mathematical research in areas where computation is central. The NSF is an independent federal agency tasked with promoting the progress of science, advancing national health and welfare, and securing national defense. Within this context, the Computational Mathematics Program emphasizes both theoretical development and practical implementation of computational methods and algorithms, aiming to produce innovative tools for solving critical scientific and engineering problems. The program supports a wide range of proposals, from individual investigator-led projects to interdisciplinary team collaborations. Projects should develop and analyze theoretically justified computational methods, with a strong emphasis on implementation. The NSF encourages proposals that provide research-based training opportunities for junior computational mathematicians, thus investing in the future workforce in computational science. In addition to standard research projects, the program supports proposals for conferences and workshops under a separate solicitation, with specific advance submission requirements based on the event type and budget. Allowable costs are governed by NSF’s general policies for financial assistance awards, including cost principles and award conditions, updated as of October 1, 2024. Proposals for U.S.-based conferences must be submitted at least six months before the event date, and those involving group travel to foreign meetings must be submitted at least eight months prior. Conference proposals requesting over $50,000 must be submitted during the annual submission window. Applications must adhere to the requirements outlined in the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG), following the applicable version for the due date. Full research proposals must be submitted electronically via Research.gov or Grants.gov. Proposals submitted outside of the designated submission window—November 16 to December 1 annually—will not be reviewed. Awards are typically announced after the close of the submission window, with review timelines aligned with NSF’s standard processing periods. Evaluation focuses on scientific merit, innovation, computational efficiency, and potential impact. Applicants are advised to ensure timely and complete submissions, as compliance with all requirements is mandatory. For program-related inquiries, applicants can contact any of the program directors listed: Yuliya Gorb, Troy D. Butler, Jodi Mead, or Ludmil T. Zikatanov. The program operates on a recurring annual basis, with the next proposal window open from November 16 to December 1, 2026. Due to the program’s structured schedule, applicants are encouraged to plan their submissions in accordance with this window and consult the official solicitation page for any updates or changes.