Many important questions in ecology, behavior, and environmental biology require the acquisition of long time series of data. Investigators often are constrained in addressing long-term questions by typical support periods for research grants. In recognition of this problem, the Division of Environmental Biology (DEB) and the Division of Integrative Organismal Biology (IOB) encourage investigators with appropriate research interests to apply for LTREB awards. These awards are designed to provide funding to help maintain an on-going long-term research project. LTREB awards are not a source of start-up funds to initiate long-term research, nor are they designed to serve as a source for renewal proposals following an initial funding period from one of the relevant core programs. It is not envisioned that LTREB projects will be the main source of extramural support for investigators. Awards are limited to a maximum of $60,000 per year for up to five years (maximum total award size is $300,000). In general, PI salary and funds for major equipment purchases are not provided. Involvement of undergraduate students is strongly encouraged.

In order to apply for an LTREB award, at least six years of long-term data must be in hand prior to submission. For all LTREB proposals, the long-term nature of the project must be hypothesis driven; the program is not designed to support basic monitoring efforts. Proposals must justify why the project requires long-term funding and should present the proposed project in its extended time perspective even though that perspective may exceed the five-year period for LTREB awards. Because long-term research projects often have special data management needs, all LTREB proposals must describe in some detail data management, and plans for data sharing with the rest of the research community. Proposals for renewal of LTREB support will be subject to new, independent review with an additional focus on how well the project has met its original goals.

Target dates for proposals are 9 January and 9 July for DEB (Ecological Biology Cluster) and 12 January and 12 July for IOB. Titles of LTREB proposals should begin, "LTREB:...", and proposals should meet all current requirements in the Grant Proposal Guide (GPG).

Program Contacts:

Dr. James Morris, DEB Program Director; Phone 703-292-8481 or E-mail: jmorris@nsf.gov

Dr. Jerry Wolff, IOB Program Director, Phone 703-292-8423 or e-mail: jwolff@nsf.gov .