Division of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences Core Programs

The Division of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences (MCB) Core Programs offered by the National Science Foundation (NSF) support fundamental research that explores the principles governing living systems at molecular and cellular levels. This grant initiative emphasizes the pursuit of mechanistic and predictive understanding across atomic, molecular, sub-cellular, and cellular scales. The solicitation is structured around four core clusters: Molecular Biophysics, Genetic Mechanisms, Cellular Dynamics and Function, and Systems and Synthetic Biology. Each cluster targets a unique scientific theme but shares an overarching goal of fostering integration across spatial and temporal biological scales, embracing computational and experimental synergies, and supporting innovative methodologies that can broadly advance bioscience research. MCB Core Programs welcome proposals at any time, without deadline constraints, allowing applicants to submit when their work is most ready. These programs prioritize projects that demonstrate significant intellectual merit, as well as broader societal impacts. Proposals must be consistent with the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG), and applicants must include a Safe and Harassment-Free Fieldwork (SAHF) Plan if any off-campus or off-site research is involved. Notably, MCB does not typically fund research solely focused on human disease unless it significantly advances another scientific field like engineering or computer science. Special tracks within the solicitation enhance its scope and inclusivity. For instance, the "EXPAND MCB in EPSCoR" track supports partnerships led by investigators from EPSCoR jurisdictions, aiming to build sustainable research capacity and strengthen institutional competitiveness. Collaborations must involve a lead from an EPSCoR organization and propose clear, impactful research in alignment with MCB priorities. Meanwhile, the "Integrative Research in Biology (IntBIO)" track supports multidisciplinary collaborations to explore bold biological questions that bridge biological sub-disciplines and scales. Projects must include a graphical integration plan and an education/training component to promote integrative biology. The estimated annual funding for new awards under this program is approximately $110 million, supporting around 120 awards per year. The anticipated award types include both standard and continuing grants. Projects are generally expected to span 3 to 5 years, with requested budgets proportionate to project scope. There is no requirement for cost sharing, and matching funds are not requested. Eligible applicants include U.S.-based institutions of higher education (both two-year and four-year), as well as nonprofit, non-academic organizations such as research institutes, museums, and professional societies. There are no restrictions on the number of proposals an organization or investigator may submit. Proposals may be submitted via Research.gov or Grants.gov, with no requirement for preliminary proposals or letters of intent. A wide range of additional funding mechanisms is supported under the MCB umbrella, including CAREER, RCN, RUI, RAPID, EAGER, and MCA programs, among others. Program contacts are organized by core cluster, with specific email addresses and phone numbers available for each. These include Loretta Jackson-Hayes (CDF), Manju Hingorani (GM), Anthony Garza (SSB), and Jaroslaw Majewski (MB). Given the open deadline policy, applicants can submit proposals year-round. While there is no formal award notification timeline specified, award decisions generally occur within six months of submission. Performance reporting requirements are standard for NSF and must be submitted via Research.gov. This funding opportunity represents a comprehensive and flexible avenue for advancing molecular and cellular bioscience research in the United States.