Archaeometry

The Archaeometry (AMTRY) Program is administered by the National Science Foundation (NSF), a federal agency supporting fundamental research and education across all fields of science and engineering. The AMTRY competition is managed through the Directorate for Social, Behavioral and Economic Sciences, specifically under the Division of Behavioral and Cognitive Sciences. NSF's goal through this program is to support basic research that expands anthropological theory, especially through the development and application of archaeometric methods. This annual competition targets two categories of funding: the development or refinement of archaeometric techniques relevant to anthropology and the support of laboratories providing archaeometric services. Examples include methods to identify organic residues on ceramics and labs offering dating or isotopic analysis. Projects using existing techniques to answer archaeological questions should apply through a separate competition, the Archaeology Senior Research Awards. Proposals to AMTRY are evaluated through both ad hoc reviews and a dedicated panel with expertise in both archaeology and archaeometry. Eligibility for the Archaeometry program requires the Principal Investigator (PI) and any co-PI to have a Ph.D. or equivalent and the ability to conduct independent basic research. Undergraduate and graduate students may participate in research but cannot serve as PI, co-PI, or senior personnel. There are no restrictions on the number of proposals per organization or per individual PI or co-PI. Proposals must be submitted in accordance with the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG), and applicants are encouraged to consult with program officers by sending a one-page project summary if unsure about the appropriateness of their topic. Proposals should include detailed plans for data sharing, ethical considerations, broader societal impacts, and where applicable, international collaboration. Projects must outline mechanisms for assessing success and provide updates on broader impact activities and data archiving in annual and final reports. The NSF emphasizes the broader impacts of research, including societal benefits, public engagement, and STEM participation among underrepresented groups. Applications are accepted through both Research.gov and Grants.gov, with an annual target deadline of December 1. Awards are expected to be either standard or continuing grants, and the estimated total program budget ranges from $600,000 to $700,000 for approximately four awards. NSF does not allow voluntary cost sharing for this program. For assistance, applicants can contact the designated program officers, John E. Yellen and Don Rimon, whose email and phone contact details are provided in the solicitation.