Algebra and Number Theory

The Algebra and Number Theory Program offered by the National Science Foundation (NSF) supports foundational research in pure mathematics, particularly focusing on algebra, algebraic and arithmetic geometry, number theory, and representation theory. This program is housed within the Division of Mathematical Sciences (MPS/DMS) under the Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences. The NSF is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 to promote the progress of science, and this program represents one of its long-standing commitments to fundamental research in the mathematical sciences. The program welcomes proposals from researchers investigating core areas of algebra and number theory as well as projects that integrate ideas across mathematical domains or bring new perspectives to longstanding mathematical problems. The scope of acceptable funding includes both individual research projects and collaborative research groups. Additionally, the program provides funding for conferences, workshops, and academic events such as summer and winter schools, which facilitate knowledge sharing and professional development in these fields. Proposals for research are expected to be submitted by the target date, which is the second Friday in October annually. The next target date is October 10, 2025. Applicants should submit their full proposals through either Research.gov or Grants.gov, adhering strictly to the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG) or the NSF Grants.gov Application Guide, depending on the chosen portal. Submissions should comply fully with all proposal preparation requirements. While the target date is firm, exceptions may be granted under extenuating circumstances, subject to approval by the relevant NSF program director. Proposals for conferences or workshops should be submitted using the "Conference" proposal type under Program Description PD 20-1264. For events with budgets not exceeding $50,000, the internal review schedule advises submission in May for events scheduled between January and April of the following year, or in October for events occurring from May through December of the next year. Larger-budget proposals exceeding $50,000 require a longer lead time and should be submitted at least nine to twelve months before the planned event date to allow for external review. The program does not specify eligibility limitations beyond the general NSF guidelines, which typically include institutions of higher education and certain nonprofit entities. Four program officers are available for direct contact regarding proposals or program guidance: J. Matthew Douglass (mdouglas@nsf.gov, 703-292-2467), Andrew Pollington (adpollin@nsf.gov, 703-292-4878), Adriana Salerno (asalerno@nsf.gov, 703-292-2271), and Emily E. Witt (ewitt@nsf.gov, 703-292-2976). All proposals must align with the funding priorities and proposal requirements defined in the active version of the PAPPG or relevant NSF guides. Applicants are responsible for ensuring full compliance. Submitting before a deadline does not waive these requirements. Additionally, NSF will implement a standard 15% indirect cost reimbursement policy starting October 1, 2024, as part of its alignment with revised federal financial assistance guidelines published in April 2024.