ECosystem for Leading Innovation in Plasma Science and Engineering

The ECosystem for Leading Innovation in Plasma Science and Engineering (ECLIPSE) is a program administered by the National Science Foundation (NSF) with the goal of advancing translational research at the intersection of fundamental plasma science and technology. This initiative spans multiple NSF Directorates, uniting a diverse community of scientists and engineers to explore and apply plasma science solutions to address pressing societal and technological challenges. Plasma science is an inherently interdisciplinary field, encompassing areas such as plasma physics, chemistry, materials science, and geospace science. The ECLIPSE program seeks to amplify the impact of foundational research by supporting work that transcends traditional disciplinary boundaries. The ECLIPSE program provides a unique opportunity for researchers whose projects may not align neatly within NSF’s existing structure of Directorates, Divisions, or programs. It supports work addressing key technological areas including, but not limited to, plasma surface interactions relevant to manufacturing and catalysis, atmospheric and microplasmas for applications such as microelectronics and environmental remediation, dusty plasmas for nanomaterial development, and computational modeling for multi-phase plasma systems with implications for space weather and industrial reactor design. Other focal points include sensor development for non-equilibrium plasmas, novel chemical measurement systems utilizing plasma, and basic plasma chemistry contributing to new synthesis pathways. Eligibility for the program extends across a broad range of institutions, with strong encouragement for submissions from Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs), Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and institutions located in EPSCoR-eligible jurisdictions. Collaborations that promote inclusion and participation of underrepresented groups in STEM are particularly welcomed. Proposals must demonstrate both a compelling scientific or engineering challenge within plasma science and a clear link to addressing societal or technological needs. Projects should identify their broader impacts, including contributions to workforce development in plasma-related STEM careers. Applications must be submitted under the standard NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG) via either Research.gov or Grants.gov, adhering to the requirements of the receiving program selected from among the “Related Programs” listed in the announcement. Each proposal must begin with the prefix “ECLIPSE:” in the title and be submitted to a primary NSF program aligned with the project’s technical scope. Proposers are strongly encouraged to consult with the program officers prior to submission to ensure alignment with ECLIPSE criteria and proper placement within the NSF hierarchy. Supplement proposals to existing awards may also be considered if they address both fundamental plasma challenges and societal relevance. Multiple proposal deadlines apply, depending on the receiving NSF division. Some divisions use annual windows or specific dates—examples include deadlines in August, October, and December, depending on the division and program. Proposals must be submitted by 5 p.m. in the submitting organization’s local time on the relevant due date. Recurrence is specified for most of these deadlines, with programs typically accepting proposals annually thereafter. While there is no central award amount stated for the ECLIPSE meta-program, award values will depend on the related program selected. Matching funds are not mentioned and likely not required, but this should be confirmed with the NSF directly. Program officers across various NSF Directorates serve as points of contact, including staff from the Directorate for Engineering (ENG), Geosciences (GEO), Mathematical and Physical Sciences (MPS), STEM Education (EDU), and the Office of Integrative Activities (OIA). All inquiries should be directed to eclipse@nsf.gov or specific officers listed in the announcement. The program reinforces NSF’s commitment to interdisciplinary research and builds a platform for pioneering innovation in plasma science that addresses challenges of national and global significance.

Contact program officers before submitting; proposals must meet both criteria.