Manufacturing Systems Integration

The National Science Foundation's Manufacturing Systems Integration (MSI) Program supports fundamental research addressing the opportunities and challenges presented by digital technologies in advancing manufacturing systems. The program emphasizes the digital integration of design and manufacturing processes within a broader life cycle ecosystem. Proposals should focus on foundational principles and advancements that are broadly generalizable, aiming to foster globally competitive and world-leading industries. Research areas of interest include connectivity, automation, secure collaboration, and their roles in supporting innovation, product realization, and the sustainment of manufacturing systems across the value chain. Key areas of interest in MSI research include developing digital representations, protocols, and processes that facilitate integration and collaboration between machines, humans, and systems. This encompasses intelligent self-organizing production systems, improved interoperability of technologies, seamless integration of legacy and emerging equipment, and service-oriented architectures. Additionally, the program seeks innovative approaches to ensuring reliable and secure communication across manufacturing systems, enabling distributed manufacturing systems to operate effectively across both time and space. Research addressing data compatibility across platforms and methods for assessing externalities within digital environments are also encouraged. The program strongly supports interdisciplinary and convergent research proposals that bring together diverse perspectives, populations, and academic disciplines. Investigators are encouraged to discuss their research ideas with an MSI program director before submitting proposals to ensure alignment with program goals. Collaboration across academic, industrial, and international partners is welcomed to address complex manufacturing challenges effectively. Proposals must adhere to the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG) if submitted via Research.gov or follow the NSF Grants.gov Application Guide if submitted through Grants.gov. Proposals are accepted on a rolling basis, with no fixed deadlines. Researchers must ensure that their submissions comply with all NSF proposal preparation requirements and guidelines. Submissions should include a robust data management plan, addressing data sharing, archiving, and preservation strategies. Evaluation of proposals will follow the NSF's standard merit review criteria, focusing on Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts. Intellectual Merit evaluates the potential of the proposed research to advance knowledge, while Broader Impacts assess its contribution to societal benefits, workforce development, and public engagement in STEM. Reviewers will also consider the qualifications of the research team, the feasibility of the research plan, and the adequacy of available resources. The MSI Program operates under the Directorate for Engineering (ENG) and the Division of Civil, Mechanical, and Manufacturing Innovation (CMMI). Researchers are encouraged to contact Program Director Janis P. Terpenny via email or phone for guidance regarding proposal preparation and submission. Additional resources, including recent funded project examples and webinar recordings, are available on the NSF MSI program webpage.