ECosystem for Leading Innovation in Plasma Science and Engineering
About
Plasma science is a transdisciplinary field of research where fundamental studies in many disciplines, including plasma physics, plasma chemistry, materials science, and space science, come together to advance knowledge for discovery and technological innovation. The primary goal of the EC osystem for L eading I nnovation in P lasma S cience and E ngineering (ECLIPSE) program is to identify and capitalize on opportunities for bringing fundamental plasma science investigations to bear on problems of societal and technological need within the scope of science and engineering supported by the participating NSF programs. The ECLIPSE meta-program has been created to foster an inclusive community of scientists and engineers, an ecosystem spanning multiple NSF Directorates, in the pursuit of translational research at the interface of fundamental plasma science and technological innovation. The ECLIPSE program builds on the long history of NSF leadership in supporting multi-disciplinary research in plasma science and engineering, and is intended to enhance organizational unity within NSF, and potentially with other funding agencies, in considering proposals and supporting projects that may otherwise struggle to find a natural home within the existing hierarchy of Directorates, Divisions, and programs within the Foundation. Examples of topical areas within the scope of the ECLIPSE program include but are not limited to: Plasma surface interactions, with applications to, e. g., advanced.
The ECosystem for Leading Innovation in Plasma Science and Engineering (ECLIPSE) program is a National Science Foundation (NSF) meta-program designed for researchers and organizations advancing fundamental plasma science with real-world applications. This program is ideal for scientists, engineers, and research institutions seeking to bridge the gap between theoretical plasma physics research and practical technological solutions addressing societal challenges. ECLIPSE supports transdisciplinary work spanning plasma physics, plasma chemistry, materials science, and space science. The program is particularly suited for projects that might not fit neatly within traditional NSF directorate structures but represent innovative intersections of multiple disciplines. Researchers should apply if they're investigating plasma surface interactions, developing new materials through plasma processes, or exploring plasma applications in energy, manufacturing, aerospace, or environmental remediation. The program fosters an inclusive community across multiple NSF directorates and potentially collaborates with other federal funding agencies. ECLIPSE represents NSF's commitment to translational research that converts fundamental plasma science discoveries into technological innovations with measurable societal impact. This is an excellent opportunity for established research teams and emerging innovators ready to demonstrate how plasma science can solve critical challenges in the modern economy.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
August 11, 2026
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Funding Range
Varies by project and cycle
Deadline
2026-08-11
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Annual (Next deadline: August 11, 2026)
Best For
Research institutions, academic scientists, engineers, and multidisciplinary research teams advancing plasma science with practical applications
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for ECosystem for Leading Innovation in Plasma Science and Engineering?
Specific eligibility criteria are not provided in the available information. Typically, NSF programs support researchers at academic institutions, national laboratories, and eligible non-profit organizations. For detailed eligibility requirements, applicant qualifications, and institutional prerequisites, please visit the official NSF ECLIPSE program website or contact the program officer directly.
How much funding does ECosystem for Leading Innovation in Plasma Science and Engineering provide?
Funding amounts are not specified in the current program information. Award amounts typically vary by project scope and research focus within NSF meta-programs. Visit the official NSF ECLIPSE program page or contact the program for current funding levels, budget guidelines, and award ranges for the upcoming cycle.
How do I apply for ECosystem for Leading Innovation in Plasma Science and Engineering?
Applications are submitted through the NSF's standard proposal submission process via Grants.gov or the NSF FastLane system. Applicants should prepare a detailed research proposal outlining their plasma science investigation and its technological applications. Review the official NSF ECLIPSE program announcement for specific formatting requirements, proposal components, submission guidelines, and the current application deadline. The next deadline is August 11, 2026.
What can ECosystem for Leading Innovation in Plasma Science and Engineering funding be used for?
ECLIPSE funding supports fundamental plasma science research with translational applications, including plasma surface interactions, plasma chemistry investigations, materials development, and technological innovation. Projects should demonstrate how plasma science addresses problems of societal and technological importance. Typical uses include research personnel, equipment, materials, and computational resources needed to advance plasma science and move discoveries toward real-world applications. Consult the official program guidelines for allowable expenses and cost-sharing requirements.
Last updated: July 5, 2026