The goal of the Mathematical Sciences Priority Area (MSPA) is to advance frontiers in three interlinked areas: (1) fundamental mathematical and statistical sciences, (2) interdisciplinary research involving the mathematical and statistical sciences with science and engineering, and (3) critical investments in mathematical and statistical sciences that embed training in research activities.

Investments in the Mathematical Sciences will deepen support for fundamental research in mathematics and statistics and the integration of mathematical and statistical research across the full range of science and engineering disciplines. Initial investments in interdisciplinary research will focus primarily on three scientific themes:

• mathematical and statistical challenges posed by large data sets,
  
• managing and modeling uncertainty, and
  
• modeling complex nonlinear systems.

These themes provide the basis for most of the interdisciplinary competitions that are part of the MSPA.  Innovative educational activities that foster closer connections between research and education in the mathematical sciences will also be supported.

This solicitation describes many of the opportunities available as part of the MSPA for addressing some of the issues listed above. In FY2004, a set of focused competitions will be held; these are described or referenced in this solicitation. In future years, it is expected that some of these competitions will be broadened in scope.

Investigators wishing to submit proposals to one of these activities are encouraged to contact one of the cognizant program officers listed.

Cognizant BIO Program Officers:

• Samuel M. Scheiner, Program Director, Directorate for Biological Sciences, Division of Environmental Biology, 635 N, telephone: (703) 292-8481, fax: (703) 292-9064, email: sscheine@nsf.gov



• James T. Morris, Program Director, Directorate for Biological Sciences, Division of Environmental Biology, 635 N, telephone: (703) 292-8481, fax: (703) 292-9064, email: jmorris@nsf.gov