National Robotics Initiative 3.0: Innovations in Integration of Robotics – $250,000 to $1,500,000 – due Feb 8 through Feb 22, 2022; and annually thereafter

Sponsored by National Science Foundation, in partnership with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, National Institutes of Health, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, United States

Eligibility:             Public, Private, Other (including homeschool, 501 (c)(3) organizations), Charter

Award(s):             Grants or cooperative agreements range from $250,000 to $1.5 million.

Deadline(s):         Applications are accepted February 8 through February 22, 2022; and February 8 through February 22, annually thereafter.

Focus:   Academic/Early Career Research, Assessment, Engineering, Museums, Professional Development, STEM/STEAM/STREAM, Technology Education/Computer Science, Technology Equipment/Devices, Underserved Populations/At Risk

Grade Level(s):   Higher Ed, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12

Content Area(s):               Mathematics, Science

Themes and Skills:           Critical Thinking, Innovation, Problem Solving

State(s):               National

Description:        The National Robotics Initiative 3.0 builds upon preceding programs to support fundamental and cross-disciplinary research projects focused on the innovative integration of robotics systems and technologies in the United States. Proposals are accepted in a variety of content areas relevant to the sponsoring agencies as listed in the program solicitation.

Within kindergarten through grade 16 education, there is interest in proposals to develop and test innovative strategies to engage students or teachers in the study of robotics in the context of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) education; or to design, develop, optimize, or use robotics to enhance teaching and learning in formal or informal STEM education settings. Eligible projects include the development, testing, and evaluation of teacher professional growth opportunities that support teaching, learning, and integration of robotics in school or college settings. There is a focus on broadening participation of students from groups underrepresented in education pathways to careers in robotics.

Eligible applicants are US accredited two- and four-year institutions of higher education, including community colleges; and US nonprofit, nonacademic organizations including independent museums, observatories, research labs, professional societies, and similar organizations associated with educational or research activities. Additional eligibility criteria specific to each sponsoring agency are outlined in the program solicitation. Proposals may be submitted individually or as a consortium. Collaboration is encouraged with US academic, industry, nonprofit, and related organizations. International collaborations may be considered. Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact the cognizant program officer prior to proposal submission. Cost sharing or matching funds are not required. Applications must be submitted online.

Contact:              David Kuehn, Program Contact

US Dept. of Transportation

Turner Fairbank Highway Research Center

6300 Georgetown Pike

McLean, VA 22101

Phone: 202.493.3414; See program solicitation for additional program officer contact information. Email: David.kuehn@dot.gov

Website:              https://beta.nsf.gov/funding/opportunities/national-robotics-initiative-30-innovations-integration-robotics-nri-30