Emerging Mathematics in Biology

The Emerging Mathematics in Biology (eMB) program, administered by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF), is a collaborative initiative supported by both the Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences (Division of Mathematical Sciences) and the Directorate for Biological Sciences (with participation from its divisions including Biological Infrastructure, Environmental Biology, Integrative Organismal Systems, and Molecular and Cellular Biosciences). The program aims to foster the development of innovative mathematical methodologies to address biologically significant questions. NSF particularly values contributions from institutions and individuals historically underrepresented or underserved in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), including institutions such as HBCUs, TCUs, HSIs, MSIs, PUIs, and two-year colleges. The eMB program supports integrative research projects that apply traditional yet complex mathematical methods or develop novel mathematical theories, particularly from foundational mathematics and AI/ML/DL, to advance understanding of biological systems. It focuses on understanding dynamic, complex biological systems at scales ranging from molecular to ecosystems. Proposed research should highlight the biological challenge, the necessity of mathematical modeling to address the question, and the innovative mathematical tools employed. Acceptable proposals may tackle various topics, including AI foundations in biology, probabilistic modeling, multiscale modeling, modeling organismal and environmental interactions, and mathematical approaches to neuroscience, genomics, and evolutionary processes. The program encourages new collaborations across mathematics, computer science, and biology and supports student and postdoctoral training. Proposals must include balanced participation from both mathematical and biological sciences through co-investigators or demonstrable expertise by a single investigator. Eligible applicants are accredited U.S. institutions of higher education (two- and four-year colleges). The proposal process adheres to NSF's Proposal and Award Policies and Procedures Guide (PAPPG) and can be submitted via Research.gov or Grants.gov. Letters of intent or preliminary proposals are not required. Cost sharing is prohibited. Proposals are reviewed through NSF’s merit review process, based on intellectual merit and broader impacts, and with specific attention to the integration of mathematical and biological sciences and the innovative use of mathematical tools. Awards range from $2 million to $6 million in total funding, with an estimated 10 to 15 awards per year. Proposals may request up to three years of funding. The application deadline is March 3, 2025, with subsequent deadlines on March 1 annually. Program contacts include Dr. Zhilan J. Feng (zfeng@nsf.gov), Dr. Shin-Han Shiu (sshiu@nsf.gov), Dr. David J. Klinke (dklinke@nsf.gov), Dr. Jeremy Wojdak (jwojdak@nsf.gov), and Dr. Jennifer W. Weller (jweller@nsf.gov). Applicants are advised to consult the program website and submission guides for full compliance and guidance.