Mathematical Biology
Can you apply?
This grant is for research projects integrating mathematics with biological sciences. Eligible applicants include academic institutions, researchers, and academic organizations that conduct mathematical and biological research. Projects must demonstrate mathematical innovation, biological relevance, and strong integration between the two fields. Both traditional research projects and specialized mechanisms (RUI, EAGER, RAPID, conferences) are supported.
Program description
The Mathematical Biology Program supports research in all areas of mathematical sciences with relevance to the biological sciences. Successful proposals must demonstrate mathematical innovation, biological relevance and significance, and strong integration between mathematics and biology.
Some projects of interest to the Mathematical Biology Program may include development of mathematical theories, methodologies, and tools traditionally seen in other disciplinary programs within the Division of Mathematical Sciences. In general, if a proposal is appropriate for review by more than one NSF program, it is advisable to contact the program officers handling each program to determine when and where the proposal should be submitted and to facilitate the review process.
The Mathematical Biology Program regularly seeks joint reviews of proposals with programs in the Directorates of Biological Sciences and other relevant programs. Investigators are encouraged to discuss their project with program officers in relevant areas to determine whether it could be considered by more than one program.
Research in Undergraduate Institutions (RUI)
Investigators submitting an RUI proposal should read the RUI solicitation (link below), as the rules for proposal format may deviate from the Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG).
EAGER and RAPID Proposals
Prior to submitting proposals for EArly-concept Grants for Exploratory Research (EAGER) or Rapid Response Research (RAPID), Investigators must contact the cognizant program directors.
Requests for Award Supplements
Principal Investigatorsare encouraged to contact the cognizant program director prior to submission of a proposal for an award supplement. See the PAPPG for more information.
Conferences
Investigators should carefully read the program solicitation, “Conferences and Workshops in the Mathematical Sciences,” (link below) to obtain important information regarding the substance of proposals for conferences, workshops, summer/winter schools, and similar activities.
To facilitate timely notification of the availability of support:
- proposals for conferences, workshops, etc., to be held in the US must be submitted 8 months in advance of the conference date;
- proposals to support group travel to meetings outside the US must be submitted 12 months in advance of the meeting date.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- NSF Cover Sheet (SF-424 or equivalent)
- Project Narrative/Research Proposal
- Budget and Budget Justification
- Biographical sketches of key personnel
- Current and pending support information
- Facilities and equipment description
- Letters of commitment (if applicable)
Program contact
- 👤 U.S. National Science Foundation
- 📧 grantsgovsupport@nsf.gov
- 📞 703-292-4203
Funding track record
Recent awards under CFDA 47.049 from the last 3 years — real organizations that won funding through this same program.
Top 10 Largest Recent Awards
-
$570,618,065
-
$480,514,346
-
$406,246,554
-
$277,033,094
-
$236,459,999
-
$190,969,692
-
$159,846,534
-
$144,261,921
-
$140,880,752
-
$124,000,000
Top States by Funding
- VA 5 awards $955.1M
- DC 4 awards $907.5M
- CA 12 awards $589.6M
- AZ 8 awards $566.5M
- NY 7 awards $319.1M
Source: USAspending.gov — federal spending transparency. Data covers last 3 years.
Funding history
Annual funding for this program — Federal obligations (CFDA 47.049). How funding has trended year over year.
| 2024 | $1,539,910,000 | |
| 2025 | $1,537,650,000 | |
| 2026 est. | $512,280,000 |
FAQ
Who can apply for the Mathematical Biology Program?
Academic researchers and institutions conducting mathematical research with biological applications. This includes universities of all sizes and research organizations. Contact program officers before submitting EAGER or RAPID proposals.
What is the deadline?
October 14, 2026 is the fixed deadline for standard proposals. Conference proposals require 8 months advance notice for US events, 12 months for international meetings.
What kinds of research does this program support?
Mathematical theories, methodologies, and tools applied to biological questions. Projects must show mathematical innovation and biological significance with strong integration between both fields.
How competitive is this program?
Very competitive. Proposals must demonstrate clear mathematical rigor and relevance to biological science. Program officer consultation before submission is strongly recommended.
Are there special proposal mechanisms available?
Yes. RUI (Research in Undergraduate Institutions), EAGER, RAPID, award supplements, and conference support are all available. Each requires different advance notice and approval steps.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Contact program officers early. Discuss your project with relevant NSF program directors before writing to determine best fit and review process.
- Emphasize integration. Show strong connections between mathematical innovation and biological application. Weak integration is a common rejection reason.
- Consider multi-program pathways. If your project fits multiple NSF programs, consult officers about joint review options to increase visibility.
- For conferences, plan ahead. US conferences need 8 months notice; international meetings require 12 months for group travel support.
- Read special solicitations carefully. RUI proposals have different format rules. EAGER and RAPID require pre-submission contact with program directors.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Proposals lack sufficient mathematical innovation or fail to demonstrate clear biological relevance. Weak integration between mathematics and biology—treating them as separate rather than intertwined. Submitting EAGER or RAPID proposals without pre-contacting program directors, causing delays or desk rejection.
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