National Science Foundation Major Research Instrumentation Funding

The National Science Foundation (NSF) Major Research Implementation (MRI) program is designed to increase access to multi-user scientific and engineering equipment for research and research training. The guidelines for the NSF MRI program can be found here. 

CMU is allowed to submit no more than two (2) proposals in Track 1, no more than one (1) proposal in Track 2, and no more than one (1) proposal in Track 3. 

As this is a limited submission competition, CMU faculty wishing to submit a proposal are asked to submit preliminary proposal information (as detailed below) to the Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP). An ad hoc committee, consisting of the Deans of the applicants' colleges and the Interim Vice President for Research and Innovation, will be convened to review the preliminary proposal information.  

Interested faculty must submit the following

  • Complete and submit the online "Proposal Planning Form" found here: CMU NSF Proposal Planning Form
  • Submit the required 1-page description of the instrument and why it's needed, the research it will enable, and the staffing and funding plan for its operation and maintenance of its functional life. (see Question #16 of the "Proposal Planning Form").

Important dates

  • Proposal Planning Form submitted to OSP by 11:59 p.m. on date to be determined
  • Selection decisions will be announced on date to be determined
  • NSF Deadline by 5 p.m. on date to be determined according to NFS MRI website