Research in Basic Plasma Science and Engineering

Background
The Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science (SC) Fusion Energy Sciences (FES) program is announcing its interest in receiving applications for hypothesis-driven frontier-level research in basic plasma science and engineering. The goal of the FES Discovery Plasma Science: Plasma Science and Technology–General Plasma Science (GPS) program is to support research at the frontiers of basic plasma science, including astrophysical, dusty, and low temperature plasmas.

This initiative aims to develop accurate descriptions of plasma behavior, explore new regimes, design experiments, and validate theoretical models while training the next generation of plasma scientists and engineers.

Grant Details
The GPS program supports a wide range of research topics including: understanding magnetic reconnection and explosive instabilities; magnetic dynamo processes; energy transfer mechanisms between fields, flows, and particles; creation of coherent structures through self-fields; coupling of dusty plasma in strong magnetic fields; and plasma chemistry related to interactions with surfaces or biomaterials.

The program encourages integrated research projects that involve laboratory experiments, advanced modeling or simulation, and observational data from spacecraft missions. Applications must focus on advancing fundamental understanding rather than developing applications for commercial use.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include domestic institutions of higher education, DOE/NNSA National Laboratories, DOE SC Scientific User Facilities, and non-profit organizations (excluding those described in section 501(c)(4) that engage in lobbying). Individuals from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. There are limitations on submissions: institutions may submit no more than two pre-applications and PIs may only be named on one pre-application. Federally affiliated entities must adhere to specific eligibility standards.

Period of Performance
The anticipated project period for awards is approximately three years.

Grant Value
Approximately $5,000,000 is available for funding in the current fiscal year with an expected number of awards around 10. Individual awards are expected to range from $300,000 to $900,000 over three years.

Place of Performance
The specific geographic locations for performance must comply with eligibility requirements regarding domestic institutions.