ROSES 2024: Research Opportunities in Space and Earth Science

The document provided is a solicitation from NASA titled "Research Opportunities in Space and Earth Sciences (ROSES) – 2024." It invites proposals for research that supports NASA's Science Mission Directorate (SMD) in areas including Earth and space sciences, astrophysics, heliophysics, and planetary science. The aim is to foster research that advances understanding of the Earth system, solar system, and universe, aligning with NASA's strategic objectives outlined in the 2022 Strategic Plan. The ROSES-2024 program is an omnibus National Research Announcement (NRA) consisting of multiple program elements, each with unique research topics and due dates. Program elements cover a broad spectrum of basic and applied science, technology development, and flight-based research using various platforms, such as CubeSats, sounding rockets, and the International Space Station (ISS). Some program elements include applied sciences projects that focus on societal needs, while others involve laboratory analysis, modeling, and technology development for future missions. NASA is providing computational resources through the High-End Computing (HEC) system for some of these projects, which requires a separate request process for selected proposals. The two main facilities available are the NASA Center for Climate Simulation (NCCS) and the NASA Advanced Supercomputing (NAS) facility. Researchers need to outline their computational requirements and submit them separately. There are significant recent changes in the ROSES process, including the expansion of the use of Dual-Anonymous Peer Review (DAPR), which now applies to more than 40 program elements. DAPR is intended to reduce bias during proposal evaluation by keeping the identities of proposers and reviewers anonymous. Some program elements also require an "Inclusion Plan" to demonstrate how projects foster an inclusive environment. However, these plans will not affect the proposal’s merit ratings. For eligibility, there are no restrictions based on citizenship, and all organizations, both domestic and international, are eligible to submit proposals. However, proposals involving collaborations with China or Chinese entities are strictly prohibited. Most program elements do not require cost-sharing, although it is permitted if voluntarily offered. The submission of proposals follows a structured process. Most program elements require a two-step process, involving a Step-1 proposal, which is essentially an intention to propose and serves for conflict-of-interest management in reviewer selection. Step-2 is the full proposal submission. Proposals must be submitted electronically via either NSPIRES or Grants.gov, and there are specific formatting and submission requirements that must be followed to ensure compliance. Key deadlines include proposal due dates that vary across program elements, with some using a "no due date" (NoDD) approach, allowing submissions throughout the year. All proposals are evaluated based on scientific merit, relevance to NASA’s goals, feasibility of the proposed work plan, and qualifications of the proposing team. Evaluation criteria also consider the proposed management of resources and adherence to guidelines on open science and data management plans, which aim to make data and results publicly accessible. ROSES-2024 also provides various administrative and award-related details. The typical period of performance for an award is three years, though some projects may extend to five years. The number of proposals expected and the potential funding amount vary by program element, but overall, approximately 1,500 proposals are expected to be selected, with a total funding allocation of over $600 million. The award types include grants, cooperative agreements, and contracts, determined by the level of NASA's involvement. This solicitation offers a wide range of research opportunities for scientific exploration and technology development, aiming to expand knowledge of space and Earth sciences, engage a diverse group of investigators, and promote scientific excellence through inclusive practices and rigorous peer review processes.