Opportunity Information: Apply for PD 23 1242
The National Science Foundation (NSF) Plasma Physics opportunity (PD 23-1242) supports investigator-initiated research that advances fundamental understanding of plasmas, meaning physical systems dominated by the collective behavior of large numbers of free charged particles. In practical terms, the program is aimed at basic plasma science: identifying and explaining the core principles that govern how plasmas form, evolve, transport energy and particles, generate fields, become unstable, and interact with boundaries, radiation, and matter. NSF frames the intellectual motivation broadly, noting that plasmas are believed to make up about 99.9 percent of the visible universe and that plasma physics underpins or connects to fields like space physics and astrophysics, fusion science, accelerator science, materials science, applied mathematics, and a wide range of engineering applications. The emphasis, however, remains on the fundamental plasma physics questions rather than purely application-driven development.
Administratively, proposals that fall within plasma physics and are being submitted to the NSF Division of Physics, but are not covered by another NSF solicitation (for example, CAREER), are routed through the Division of Physics Investigator-Initiated Research Projects solicitation. Within that umbrella, the Plasma Physics program also participates in several NSF-wide or cross-cutting meta-programs, including ECLIPSE (ECosystem for Leading Innovation in Plasma Science and Engineering), WoU-MMA (Windows on the Universe: The Era of Multi-Messenger Astrophysics), and CDS&E (Computational and Data-enabled Science and Engineering). That matters because a plasma physics proposal with strong ties to, say, advanced computation, data-driven discovery, or multi-messenger astrophysical connections may align with these broader NSF efforts in addition to fitting the Plasma Physics program itself. The solicitation also flags that plasma-appropriate proposals may be submitted in response to specific NSF Dear Colleague Letters, such as those focused on sustainability themes (for example, Critical Aspects of Sustainability and Innovative Solutions to Sustainable Chemistry).
In terms of scientific scope, NSF describes several major, overlapping sub-areas that the program is prepared to support. These include magnetized plasmas in laboratory, space, and astrophysical settings; high energy density plasmas; low temperature plasmas; dusty, ultra-cold, and more generally strongly coupled plasmas; and non-neutral plasmas as well as intense field-matter interactions in plasmas. The common thread across these topics is that the research should illuminate plasma behavior arising from collective effects, rather than focusing narrowly on single-particle or small-ensemble physics. NSF also signals flexibility on project length: while many NSF awards are three years, investigators whose plasma research realistically needs a longer runway to produce demonstrable outcomes are encouraged to talk with the program director about proposing a 4- or 5-year project.
The opportunity is open in terms of eligible applicants (listed as “Unrestricted,” subject to any specific eligibility notes that may appear in the broader Division-wide solicitation). NSF anticipates around 25 awards. The listing shows an award ceiling of 0, which typically indicates that a fixed maximum is not specified in this summary record and applicants should rely on the main solicitation and program guidance for typical budget ranges and expectations. The original closing date shown for this posting is November 20, 2023, and the agency is the National Science Foundation under CFDA 47.049, categorized as science and technology research and development, using the grant funding instrument.
A notable feature of this program is its explicit encouragement of Broader Impacts activities that strengthen and diversify the plasma physics community. Investigators are urged to consider concrete efforts to broaden participation of underrepresented groups in STEM as part of the project’s broader impacts plan. NSF also highlights educational capacity-building as a valued contribution, especially developing new undergraduate or graduate plasma physics curricula, or integrating plasma physics content into existing courses at institutions that do not currently offer substantial plasma coursework.
The solicitation also clarifies boundaries with other NSF programs to help applicants avoid misdirected submissions. Projects centered on the properties of individual atoms or molecules, or on optical physics, are generally better suited for the Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics (AMO) program. Proposals primarily aimed at understanding astrophysical systems should go to the Division of Astronomical Sciences, while work focused on geospace, Sun-Earth interactions, or the near-Earth environment belongs in the Geospace Section within Atmospheric and Geospace Sciences. If the main thrust is developing new materials using plasmas, NSF points to the Division of Materials Research; if the emphasis is plasma-assisted manufacturing, to the Division of Civil, Mechanical and Manufacturing Innovation. Similarly, proposals focused on plasmas as tools for environmental or reaction engineering, sustainability engineering, combustion systems, or biomedical engineering applications are directed toward the relevant programs in the Division of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental and Transport Systems. The practical takeaway is that NSF wants plasma physics proposals in this program to be anchored in plasma science fundamentals, even when the motivation involves applications.
Finally, NSF notes that, when allowed under memoranda of understanding (MOUs), it may share proposal information for potential joint funding considerations and may allow personnel from partner organizations to observe merit review panels. MOUs relevant to this program currently include major U.S. science and defense research entities (Department of Energy Office of Science, National Nuclear Security Administration, and the Air Force Office of Scientific Research) as well as several international research partners (the US-Israel Binational Science Foundation, the Czech Science Foundation, Germany’s DFG, and the Swiss National Science Foundation). This signals opportunities for coordination or co-funding in areas of mutual interest, while still keeping NSF’s merit review and programmatic fit requirements central to the decision process.Apply for PD 23 1242
- The National Science Foundation in the science and technology and other research and development sector is offering a public funding opportunity titled "Plasma Physics" and is now available to receive applicants.
- Interested and eligible applicants and submit their applications by referencing the CFDA number(s): 47.049.
- This funding opportunity was created on Aug 29, 2023.
- Applicants must submit their applications by Nov 20, 2023. (Agency may still review applications by suitable applicants for the remaining/unused allocated funding in 2026.)
- The number of recipients for this funding is limited to 25 candidate(s).
- Eligible applicants include: Unrestricted (i.e., open to any type of entity above), subject to any clarification in text field entitled Additional Information on Eligibility.
[Watch] Creating a grant proposal using the step-by-step wizard inside the applicant portal:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): NSF Plasma Physics (PD 23-1242)
What is the NSF Plasma Physics opportunity (PD 23-1242)?
This NSF opportunity supports investigator-initiated research that advances the fundamental understanding of plasmas. Plasmas are physical systems dominated by the collective behavior of many free charged particles, and the program is focused on basic plasma science rather than application-driven development.
What kinds of research does the program emphasize?
The emphasis is on core plasma physics principles: how plasmas form and evolve, how they transport energy and particles, how they generate fields, how instabilities arise, and how plasmas interact with boundaries, radiation, and matter. Projects should be anchored in fundamental plasma physics questions, even when the motivation comes from real-world applications.
How does NSF define “plasma physics” in this program?
NSF frames plasma physics as the study of systems where collective plasma behavior is the key feature. The common thread across supported topics is that proposed work should illuminate plasma behavior arising from collective effects, rather than focusing narrowly on single-particle or small-ensemble physics.
Why does NSF describe plasmas as broadly important?
NSF notes that plasmas are believed to constitute about 99.9 percent of the visible universe and that plasma physics connects to areas such as space physics, astrophysics, fusion science, accelerator science, materials science, applied mathematics, and a wide range of engineering applications. Even so, the program’s priority remains fundamental plasma science.
What are the main scientific sub-areas NSF says it can support?
NSF lists several major, overlapping sub-areas, including: magnetized plasmas (laboratory, space, and astrophysical contexts), high energy density plasmas, low temperature plasmas, dusty/ultra-cold/strongly coupled plasmas, non-neutral plasmas, and intense field-matter interactions in plasmas.
Is this program only for lab plasmas, or can it include space and astrophysical plasmas?
The scope explicitly includes magnetized plasmas in laboratory, space, and astrophysical settings, as long as the proposal is fundamentally about plasma physics (collective plasma behavior and governing principles) rather than primarily about understanding an astrophysical system as the main target.
Where are proposals submitted administratively within NSF?
Proposals that fall within plasma physics and are submitted to the NSF Division of Physics, but are not covered by another specific NSF solicitation (such as CAREER), are routed through the Division of Physics Investigator-Initiated Research Projects solicitation.
How does this Plasma Physics program relate to other NSF “meta-programs”?
The Plasma Physics program participates in cross-cutting NSF efforts including ECLIPSE (ECosystem for Leading Innovation in Plasma Science and Engineering), WoU-MMA (Windows on the Universe: The Era of Multi-Messenger Astrophysics), and CDS&E (Computational and Data-enabled Science and Engineering). A proposal may fit the Plasma Physics program while also aligning with one of these broader NSF efforts if the research has strong connections to those themes.
Can proposals be submitted in response to NSF Dear Colleague Letters (DCLs)?
Yes. The solicitation notes that plasma-appropriate proposals may be submitted in response to specific NSF Dear Colleague Letters, including those focused on sustainability themes (examples mentioned include Critical Aspects of Sustainability and Innovative Solutions to Sustainable Chemistry).
How long should a project be?
NSF notes flexibility on project length. While many NSF awards are three years, investigators whose plasma research needs more time to produce demonstrable outcomes are encouraged to discuss proposing a 4- or 5-year project with the program director.
Who is eligible to apply?
The listing states eligibility is “Unrestricted,” subject to any specific eligibility notes that may appear in the broader Division-wide solicitation. Applicants should rely on the main Division of Physics solicitation for any additional eligibility constraints or requirements.
How many awards does NSF expect to make?
NSF anticipates around 25 awards under this opportunity.
Is there a maximum (ceiling) award amount?
The summary record shows an award ceiling of 0, which typically indicates a fixed maximum is not specified in that summary listing. Applicants are expected to rely on the main solicitation and program guidance for typical budget ranges and expectations.
What is the closing date shown for this posting?
The original closing date shown is November 20, 2023.
What is the agency and funding instrument for this opportunity?
The agency is the National Science Foundation (NSF). The funding instrument is a grant.
What is the CFDA number and general category for this opportunity?
The opportunity is listed under CFDA 47.049 and categorized as science and technology research and development.
What does NSF want to see under “Broader Impacts” for this program?
NSF explicitly encourages Broader Impacts activities that strengthen and diversify the plasma physics community. The program urges investigators to include concrete efforts to broaden participation of underrepresented groups in STEM as part of the project’s broader impacts plan.
Does NSF value educational or curriculum development in this program?
Yes. NSF highlights educational capacity-building as a valued contribution, including developing new undergraduate or graduate plasma physics curricula or integrating plasma physics content into existing courses at institutions that do not currently offer substantial plasma coursework.
What kinds of projects are likely better suited for the Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) Physics program instead?
The solicitation notes that projects centered on the properties of individual atoms or molecules, or on optical physics, are generally better suited for NSF’s Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics (AMO) program.
When should a proposal go to NSF Astronomical Sciences instead of this Plasma Physics program?
If the project is primarily aimed at understanding astrophysical systems (as the main thrust), NSF indicates it should be submitted to the Division of Astronomical Sciences rather than to this Plasma Physics program.
When should work be directed to Atmospheric and Geospace Sciences rather than Plasma Physics?
Work focused on geospace, Sun-Earth interactions, or the near-Earth environment is directed to the Geospace Section within NSF’s Atmospheric and Geospace Sciences, according to the solicitation.
Where should proposals focused on developing new materials using plasmas be sent?
NSF points proposals whose main thrust is developing new materials using plasmas to the Division of Materials Research.
Where should plasma-assisted manufacturing proposals go?
If the emphasis is plasma-assisted manufacturing, NSF directs applicants to the Division of Civil, Mechanical and Manufacturing Innovation.
What if the proposal uses plasmas mainly as tools for engineering applications (environmental, reaction, combustion, biomedical, sustainability engineering)?
NSF indicates that proposals focused on plasmas as tools for environmental or reaction engineering, sustainability engineering, combustion systems, or biomedical engineering applications should be directed to the relevant programs in the Division of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental and Transport Systems.
If the motivation is applied, can the proposal still fit Plasma Physics?
Yes, but the solicitation’s practical message is that the proposal should remain anchored in plasma science fundamentals. NSF wants projects in this program to address fundamental plasma physics, even when there is an applications-related motivation.
Can NSF share proposal information for joint funding considerations?
NSF notes that, when allowed under memoranda of understanding (MOUs), it may share proposal information for potential joint funding considerations.
Can personnel from other organizations observe NSF merit review panels for this program?
NSF states it may allow personnel from partner organizations to observe merit review panels when permitted under MOUs.
Which partner organizations are mentioned as having MOUs relevant to this program?
NSF lists MOUs that include U.S. partners (Department of Energy Office of Science, National Nuclear Security Administration, and the Air Force Office of Scientific Research) and international partners (the US-Israel Binational Science Foundation, the Czech Science Foundation, Germany’s DFG, and the Swiss National Science Foundation).
Does the presence of MOUs change NSF’s merit review or program fit requirements?
The solicitation indicates that these MOUs can enable coordination or co-funding in areas of mutual interest, but NSF’s merit review and programmatic fit requirements remain central to the funding decision process.
Browse more opportunities from the same category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development
Next opportunity: Operations Research (Implementation Science) for Strengthening Global Health Protection Implementation: Amendment 1
Previous opportunity: OJJDP FY 2023 Invited to Apply - National Center for Missing and Exploited Children
Applicant Portal:
Are you interested in learning about about how to apply for this government funding opportunity? You can create a free applicant account and receive instant access to our applicant portal that many business owners like you have benefited from.
Apply for PD 23 1242
Applicants also applied for:
Applicants who have applied for this opportunity (PD 23 1242) also looked into and applied for these:
| Funding Opportunity |
|---|
| NIJ FY 2023 Invited to Apply - Support Activities under Section 13(d) of Executive Order 14074 Apply for O NIJ 2023 171870 Funding Number: O NIJ 2023 171870 Agency: Department of Justice, National Institute of Justice Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $650,000 |
| USGS Non-Competitive Assistance FY 2023 - Denver Grants Branch Apply for G23AS00057 Funding Number: G23AS00057 Agency: Department of the Interior, Geological Survey Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $997,833 |
| Naval Engineering Education Consortium (NEEC) Broad Agency Announcement for FY24 Apply for NSWC DD BAA N00178 23 0002 Funding Number: NSWC DD BAA N00178 23 0002 Agency: Department of Defense Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $500,000 |
| Naval Engineering Education Consortium (NEEC) Broad Agency Announcement for FY24 Apply for NSWC DD BAA N00178 24 0002 Funding Number: NSWC DD BAA N00178 24 0002 Agency: Department of Defense Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $500,000 |
| NIJ FY 2023 Invited to Apply - Funding to Support the Research and Development in Forensic Science for Criminal Justice Purposes Program Apply for O NIJ 2023 171873 Funding Number: O NIJ 2023 171873 Agency: Department of Justice, National Institute of Justice Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $266,406 |
| Standing Committee on Biotechnology Capabilities and National Security Needs Apply for HQ003423NFOEASD18 Funding Number: HQ003423NFOEASD18 Agency: Department of Defense, Washington Headquarters Services Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $700,000 |
| Focused Research Groups in the Mathematical Sciences Apply for 23 621 Funding Number: 23 621 Agency: National Science Foundation Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $1,500,000 |
| NIJ FY23 Center for Enhancing Research Capacity (CERC) at Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) Apply for O NIJ 2023 171879 Funding Number: O NIJ 2023 171879 Agency: Department of Justice, National Institute of Justice Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $1,000,000 |
| Organismal Response to Climate Change Apply for 23 622 Funding Number: 23 622 Agency: National Science Foundation Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: Case Dependent |
| Advancing Research Capacity at HBCUs through Exploration and Innovation Apply for 23 626 Funding Number: 23 626 Agency: National Science Foundation Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $3,000,000 |
| Research on Innovative Technologies for Enhanced Learning Apply for 23 624 Funding Number: 23 624 Agency: National Science Foundation Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $900,000 |
| Mathematical and Physical Sciences Ascending Faculty Catalyst Awards Apply for 23 628 Funding Number: 23 628 Agency: National Science Foundation Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: Case Dependent |
| FY 2024 Continuation of Solicitation for the Office of Science Financial Assistance Program Apply for DE FOA 0003177 Funding Number: DE FOA 0003177 Agency: Department of Energy - Office of Science, Office of Science Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $5,000,000 |
| Ethical and Responsible Research Apply for 23 630 Funding Number: 23 630 Agency: National Science Foundation Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: Case Dependent |
| 2024 HERO Appendix B: NASA Human Research Program Omnibus Opportunity Apply for 80JSC024NA001 OMNIBUS Funding Number: 80JSC024NA001 OMNIBUS Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration, NASA Johnson Space Center Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $150,000 |
| 2024 HERO Appendix A: NASA Human Research Program Flagship Opportunity Apply for 80JSC024NA001 FLAGSHIP Funding Number: 80JSC024NA001 FLAGSHIP Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration, NASA Johnson Space Center Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $1,500,000 |
| Research Infrastructure in the Social and Behavioral Sciences Apply for PD 23 277Y Funding Number: PD 23 277Y Agency: National Science Foundation Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $2,000,000 |
| Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training (ARRT) Program - Health and Function Apply for HHS 2024 ACL NIDILRR ARHF 0066 Funding Number: HHS 2024 ACL NIDILRR ARHF 0066 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Community Living Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $200,000 |
| Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training (ARRT) Program - Employment Apply for HHS 2024 ACL NIDILRR AREM 0065 Funding Number: HHS 2024 ACL NIDILRR AREM 0065 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Community Living Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $200,000 |
| Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training (ARRT) Program - Community Living and Participation Apply for HHS 2024 ACL NIDILRR ARCP 0064 Funding Number: HHS 2024 ACL NIDILRR ARCP 0064 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Community Living Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $200,000 |
Grant application guides and resources
It is always free to apply for government grants. However the process may be very complex depending on the funding opportunity you are applying for. Let us help you!
Apply for Grants
Inside Our Applicants Portal
Access Applicants Portal
- Grants Repository - Access current and historic funding opportunities with ease. Thousands of funding opportunities are published every week. We can help you sort through the database and find the eligible ones to apply for.
- Applicant Video Guides - The grant application process can be challenging to follow. We can help you with intuitive video guides to speed up the process and eliminate errors in submissions.
- Grant Proposal Wizard - We have developed a network of private funding organizations and investors across the United States. We can reach out and submit your proposal to these contacts to maximize your chances of getting the funding you need.
Premium leads for funding administrators, grant writers, and loan issuers
Thousands of people visit our website for their funding needs every day. When a user creates a grant proposal and files for submission, we pass the information on to funding administrators, grant writers, and government loan issuers.
If you manage government grant programs, provide grant writing services, or issue personal or government loans, we can help you reach your audience.
Learn More
Request more information:
Would you like to learn more about this funding opportunity, similar opportunities to "PD 23 1242", eligibility, application service, and/or application tips? Submit an inquiry below:
Don't forget to subscribe to our grant alerts mailing list to receive weekly alerts on new and updated grant funding opportunities like this one in your email.