Geobiology and Low-Temperature Geochemistry (GG)

The Geobiology and Low-Temperature Geochemistry (GG) Program, part of the NSF’s Division of Earth Sciences, supports research on the interactions between biological and geochemical processes in Earth’s surface systems. Research can address these processes through various methods, including field studies, laboratory analysis, and computational or theoretical modeling, at any spatial or temporal scale. The program is interdisciplinary and encourages transformational projects that advance fundamental knowledge in Earth sciences. Studies may cover topics such as biogeochemical cycles, greenhouse gas dynamics, mineral transformation, microbial geochemistry, and the development of geochemical proxies and analytical techniques. Special emphasis is given to projects that apply new methods or explore emerging scientific areas. The program’s primary objective is to improve the scientific understanding of low-temperature geochemical and biogeochemical processes at Earth’s surface. Projects that investigate the role of life in shaping geochemical cycles, assess critical mineral pathways, and address human health intersections with Earth materials are encouraged. The program also seeks to support research that can address societal and environmental challenges such as climate change, critical mineral sourcing, and public health through geobiological perspectives. This initiative values both discipline-specific studies and broader interdisciplinary projects that bridge fields within Earth sciences and beyond. The program has an annual budget of approximately $9 million, with an estimated 25 to 30 grants awarded each year, contingent on funding availability. Eligible applicants include U.S.-based institutions of higher education (both two- and four-year institutions) and non-profit, non-academic organizations like museums, research laboratories, and professional societies involved in education or research. Projects involving international collaboration, especially those that facilitate intellectual exchanges and shared resources, are eligible but must justify the necessity of non-U.S.-based activities. NSF’s policy prohibits voluntary cost sharing, and requests for equipment funding within research proposals are typically limited to $50,000 unless separately applied for through the EAR Instrumentation and Facilities Program. Proposals are accepted on a rolling basis and must be submitted via Research.gov or Grants.gov. Applicants are encouraged to discuss projects that may span disciplinary boundaries with program officers prior to submission. All proposals must include a Data Management Plan adhering to NSF’s FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) principles, detailing plans for data sharing and archiving. If projects involve fieldwork or work in foreign or Indigenous territories, specific safety and collaboration protocols must be included, and relevant permits or letters of cooperation are required. Proposals may also incorporate student mentoring plans, particularly when seeking support for graduate or undergraduate researchers. Applications are evaluated based on NSF’s core criteria of Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts, emphasizing the project’s potential to advance scientific knowledge and contribute positively to society. The review process includes both ad hoc and panel reviews, with careful attention to proposed methodologies, qualifications, and resource adequacy. Projects are expected to integrate broader impact initiatives, such as public engagement, diversity in STEM, and infrastructure development, tailored to the project’s objectives and team capabilities. Successful applicants are notified following the review and administrative processes, with awards managed through NSF’s electronic systems. Annual reports are required for multi-year projects, detailing progress on both scientific objectives and broader impacts. Awardees are expected to make data and research findings publicly accessible according to the NSF’s data policy, supporting transparency and future research. For any questions, applicants may contact designated NSF program officers listed in the solicitation.