Call for Grant Applications –
Designing Materials to Revolutionize and Engineer our Future (DMREF)
Application Deadline-
February 4, 2025
About Organisation
Designing Materials to Revolutionize and Engineer our Future (DMREF) is a program funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) aimed at accelerating the discovery, design, and development of advanced materials. DMREF integrates data science, computational tools, experiments, and theory to optimize materials innovation, fostering collaboration between experts in these areas. The program supports partnerships across academia, industry, and government to enhance the materials development process. DMREF also prioritizes the education and training of future materials research professionals, equipping them with the skills needed for successful careers in innovation and research. By advancing materials science, DMREF strengthens U.S. leadership in industries vital to national health, security, and economic prosperity.
About the Grant
The DMREF grant supports research to significantly reduce the timeline for materials discovery and application. It encourages interdisciplinary teams to engage in a “closed-loop” research process where computational simulations guide experiments, and experimental results refine theories. This approach is designed to accelerate the development of materials with desired properties and functionality. DMREF aligns with the 2021 Materials Genome Initiative (MGI) Strategic Plan and aims to harness materials data, enhance materials innovation infrastructure, and cultivate a diverse and skilled materials research workforce. Proposals should involve cutting-edge research and cross-disciplinary collaboration.
Who can Apply?
DMREF grants are open to interdisciplinary teams led by at least two Senior/Key Personnel with complementary expertise. The team’s research must incorporate an iterative, closed-loop process combining theory, computational simulation, and experimental observation. Proposals are encouraged from researchers in materials science, engineering, data science, and related fields. Participation from underrepresented and underserved communities is strongly encouraged to promote diversity within the materials research field. Both academic and industry applicants are eligible, and proposals may also involve collaboration with federal agencies such as the Department of Energy or Air Force Research Laboratory.
How to Apply?
Applicants must submit a proposal detailing their interdisciplinary team, focusing on the closed-loop integration of theory, computation, and experimental research.
Application Deadline
The official solicitation will provide the specific deadline for applications.
Last Date To Apply
The final application submission date will be provided in the official solicitation.
Grant Amount
DMREF grants typically range from $1.5 million to $2 million over a four-year period, subject to availability of funds.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.