MPS Chemistry Research Programs (MPS Chem)

The U.S. National Science Foundation’s Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences (NSF MPS) has launched the MPS Chemistry Research Programs (MPS Chem) solicitation (NSF 26-519). This initiative consolidates disciplinary chemistry funding opportunities to drive foundational, intellectually ambitious research across sub-fields including Chemical Catalysis, Chemical Synthesis, Computational Chemistry, Macromolecular Sciences, and the Chemistry of Life Processes. Proposals are accepted on an ongoing basis with no fixed deadline starting September 1, 2026. The program anticipates awarding approximately 300 grants from an estimated total pool of $150 million. Researchers are encouraged to integrate emerging technologies—including artificial intelligence, advanced computing, and laboratory automation—to open novel experimental and analytical avenues that redefine fundamental chemical understanding. Support ranges from short-term exploratory grants (such as RAPID and EAGER) to multi-year standard and continuing grants of up to five years. The initiative prioritizes early-career researchers, interdisciplinary collaborations, and bold high-risk research aimed at long-term economic, scientific, and industrial breakthroughs across the United States.