Research on the Science and Technology Enterprise: Indicators, Statistics, and Methods (NCSES S)

The National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics (NCSES), part of the National Science Foundation (NSF), is one of the United States’ principal federal statistical agencies. It is responsible for the collection, analysis, and dissemination of data related to the science and technology (S&T) enterprise both in the U.S. and globally. NCSES supports efforts that produce statistical data vital to informing policymakers, researchers, practitioners, and the general public about the state of science and engineering in society. Its activities include issuing high-impact reports such as "Women, Minorities and Persons with Disabilities in Science and Engineering" and the National Science Board's biennial "Science and Engineering Indicators". This funding opportunity supports research that enhances the methodologies and analytics used in the study of S&T indicators. It aims to strengthen data quality and support education in the use of large-scale datasets. Eligible project types include research projects, doctoral dissertation improvement awards, conferences, experimental studies, and dissemination efforts. The program encourages innovative approaches that leverage NCSES data or other relevant datasets to improve survey methodologies, develop new S&T indicators, use alternative data sources, or explore innovative visualization and communication strategies. NCSES outlines several thematic priorities for proposals, such as refining methods to measure S&T resources and outputs, developing global S&T indicators, improving data collection techniques, ensuring privacy protection in survey data, and facilitating better dissemination and communication of statistical insights. Researchers are also encouraged to explore data linkages and alternate sources to supplement existing NCSES datasets. Additionally, doctoral students may seek funding to cover direct research costs through Dissertation Research Improvement Grants (DDRIGs), though such grants do not support salaries or stipends. Applications must be submitted through either Research.gov or Grants.gov using the current NSF Proposal and Award Policies and Procedures Guide (PAPPG). Letters of Intent and preliminary proposals are not required. Proposals involving restricted-use microdata from NCSES must follow specific licensing procedures, which include application via the Standard Application Process (SAP) portal. The program does not allow voluntary committed cost sharing, and applicants are expected to provide detailed data management plans for any new data generated. Two standard deadlines are offered each year—on the third Tuesday of January and June. The next deadlines are January 21, 2025, and June 17, 2025, recurring annually. Awards are expected to range from 5 to 10 annually, with a total estimated program funding of $1.5 million, contingent on availability of funds. Awards may be issued as either standard or continuing grants. Each funded project must conclude with a virtual presentation to NCSES summarizing outcomes and findings. For assistance, applicants may contact the program officer Sharon A. Boivin at sboivin@nsf.gov or by phone at (703) 292-4263. This funding opportunity aligns with NSF’s mandate to broaden participation in science and engineering and is open to accredited U.S.-based higher education institutions, nonprofit organizations engaged in education or research, and federally recognized Tribal Nations. Dissertation grant proposals must list the faculty advisor as PI and the doctoral student as co-PI.