Research, Development, and Training in Isotope Production

Background
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science (SC) is issuing a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for Research, Development, and Training in Isotope Production. This program aims to advance the understanding and technology related to the production, processing, and purification of isotopes, which are critical for various fields including medical diagnosis, national security, and clean energy.

The DOE Isotope Program (DOE IP) focuses on enhancing isotope science through innovative research and development efforts.

Grant Details
The grant will support research and development (R&D) on high-priority topics related to isotope science. Key areas of interest include:
1) Automation, advanced manufacturing, AI/ML, and robotics aimed at improving production techniques;
2) Novel metal conversion chemistry for isotope processing;
3) Techniques for efficient separation of lanthanides and actinides;
4) Recovery methods for critical radioisotopes from complex mixtures;
5) Pathways to produce enriched stable isotopes relevant to fusion energy.

Applications that train the next generation of personnel in these areas are strongly encouraged.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include domestic organizations such as DOE/NNSA National Laboratories, institutions of higher education, and non-profit research organizations. For-profit entities may not apply directly but can be included as subrecipients.

Applicants must not have submitted more than two pre-applications or applications per Principal Investigator (PI). Individuals from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.

Period of Performance
The expected project period is two years.

Grant Value
The total funding available is up to $11 million, with individual awards ranging from $100,000 to $750,000 per year. Between 8 and 12 awards are anticipated.

Place of Performance
The grant activities are expected to be performed at domestic institutions capable of conducting isotope R&D.