Arctic Research Opportunities

The Arctic Research Opportunities program, managed by the Arctic Sciences Section of the Office of Polar Programs (OPP) within the National Science Foundation (NSF), supports a broad spectrum of research that enhances understanding of the Arctic region. This solicitation invites investigators based at U.S. institutions to submit proposals for scientific work focusing on both the natural and social dimensions of the Arctic and its complex interactions with the global system. The program aligns with the priorities established in the Interagency Arctic Research Policy Committee’s (IARPC) five-year plan and aims to improve the capacity to project Arctic and global environmental change. Funding is available for proposals that fall under six key program areas: Arctic Natural Sciences, Arctic Social Sciences, Arctic System Science, Arctic Observing Network, Polar Cyberinfrastructure, and Arctic Research Coordination and Policy Support. These areas collectively support research that spans from process-based disciplinary studies to interdisciplinary system-level investigations. Of particular interest are proposals that address the drivers, impacts, and feedback mechanisms of environmental and socio-cultural change in the Arctic. Coordination with NSF programs and domestic and international partners is encouraged, especially for large, complex projects involving extensive logistics. Proposals are accepted through either Research.gov or Grants.gov, with specific target dates depending on the program. For Arctic Natural Sciences and Arctic Social Sciences, the next submission target is January 15, 2027, with future submissions accepted annually on that date. For other programs, proposals are accepted at any time. Required components include a project description (15-page limit for most), supplementary documents such as a Data Management and Sharing Plan, a Plan for Safe and Harassment-Free Working Environments for off-site research, and a one-page Ethical Considerations statement. Letters of collaboration from Indigenous or community-based organizations are recommended when appropriate. The NSF emphasizes inclusive practices, encouraging collaboration with Arctic residents, including Indigenous communities. Research that includes co-production of knowledge or involves research in or near Arctic communities must demonstrate early and meaningful engagement with those communities and provide supporting documentation of such collaboration. Ethical research practices, environmental compliance, and communication with affected parties are critical components of proposal review. Each year, approximately $50 million is allocated to fund between 75 and 80 awards, pending availability of funds. Proposals may request field logistics through the Arctic Research Support and Logistics Services contractor, and field activities should be planned with sufficient lead time—at least 12 to 18 months in advance. Proposers are also responsible for acquiring all necessary permits and insurance related to fieldwork in the Arctic. The program uses the standard NSF merit review criteria of Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts, and proposals must clearly articulate how the research will advance understanding of Arctic systems and contribute to society. All proposals undergo rigorous peer review and must comply with the latest NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG). For more information or guidance, investigators should contact the respective program officers listed for each research area.

Engage Arctic communities early; Align with IARPC priorities; Include clear ethical and fieldwork risk plans; Comply with data and environmental requirements.