Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) Program: Instrument Acquisition or Development

Brief Synopsis from Sponsor: The Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) Program serves to increase access to multi-user scientific and engineering instrumentation for research and research training in our Nation's institutions of higher education and not-for-profit scientific/engineering research organizations. An MRI award supports the acquisition or development of a multi-user research instrument that is, in general, too costly and/or not appropriate for support through other NSF programs.

MRI provides support to acquire critical research instrumentation without which advances in fundamental science and engineering research may not otherwise occur. MRI also provides support to develop next-generation research instruments that open new opportunities to advance the frontiers in science and engineering research. Additionally, an MRI award is expected to enhance research training of students who will become the next generation of instrument users, designers and builders.

Please read full opportunity linked above before submitting your application.

Sponsor Funding: There are two tracks: Track 1 (Track 1 proposals are those requesting from NSF $100,000[1] to less than $1 million) and Track 2 (Track 2 proposals are those requesting from NSF $1 million up to and including $4 million)

Be aware: The number of MRI proposal submissions allowed per institution continues to be a maximum of three, but is now based on the dollar value of the amount requested from NSF; no more than two submissions are permitted in a newly-defined Track 1 and no more than one submission is permitted in Track 2.

Anyone interested in submitting for this program must first submit an internal application to , with copy to the applicable research dean, by 5 p.m. on the date listed above, including the following materials:

  • A summary of the proposal (maximum two pages);
  • A paragraph describing why you would be the most competitive candidate for this program;
  • A brief (less than one page) summary of total costs that includes the total amount of, and source for, cost share (This program requires a 30% cost share that must be divided between 1/3 department, 1/3 academic unit, and 1/3 EVPRI);
  • Your current curriculum vitae;
  • A cover page that contains:
    • The name of this funding opportunity and title of your proposal;
    • Your name, position, and UofL office contact information;
    • Collaborator names, positions, and institutions (if applicable).

Reviewers will judge proposals as they would in any peer review process, so PIs are urged to put forward competitive internal proposals. Along with typical criteria, reviewers will evaluate internal proposals based on their fit with the sponsor’s articulated goals and criteria as well as the UofL strategic goals.

The above internal application materials should be submitted via email as a single .PDF file to by the internal deadline listed above.

If you have any questions, please
Email:
Director of Research Development and Support
Research Development & Strategic Initiatives
Office of the EVP – Research & Innovation
300 E. Market Street, Suite 300
Louisville, KY 40202-1959