Research Grants for Non-American Professors from NSF, DARPA and Other Agencies

Academics and researchers from around the world often seek to collaborate with U.S.-based institutions to advance their research efforts. While the National Science Foundation (NSF), the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), and other federal agencies primarily award grants to U.S. citizens, there are opportunities for non-U.S. citizens as well. Let's explore the eligibility criteria, collaborative proposals, and fellowship programs that can accommodate non-American professors.

Eligibility Criteria and Specific Requirements

Typically, the principal investigator (PI) on a grant application must be affiliated with an eligible institution, such as a U.S. university or research organization. While U.S. citizenship or permanent residency is often required, some programs specifically allow non-U.S. citizens to apply. This is particularly true if the applicant is affiliated with an eligible U.S. institution. Nevertheless, each program has its unique requirements, so it is crucial to review the specific guidelines of each funding opportunity.

Collaborative Research Proposals

Non-U.S. citizens can also participate in collaborative research projects, serving as co-investigators or collaborators. In such cases, the funding is usually awarded to the U.S. institution. Non-citizens must comply with the specific agency's guidelines in terms of their involvement. This approach ensures that research meets the required standards and complies with regulations.

Fellowships and Scholarships

Some specific programs or fellowships explicitly allow international researchers to conduct research in the U.S. under certain conditions. These programs often provide resources and support for overseas researchers to collaborate on U.S. projects. This can be a vital opportunity for non-U.S. citizens to gain access to U.S. funding and research facilities.

Agency-Specific Policies

It's important to review the specific guidelines of each funding opportunity as policies may vary between agencies and even among different programs within the same agency. For example, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Energy (DOE), and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) predominantly award basic science/research awards to U.S.-based researchers, regardless of citizenship. However, there may be specific programs that are open to non-U.S. citizens based on unique criteria. It's also worth noting that some funding may require certain visa statuses, such as a "Green card," for non-U.S. citizens to be eligible.

Programmatic Exceptions

Some programs, such as DARPA, ONR, AOSR, and Air Force DOD, may have specific requirements for U.S. citizenship or may be limited to U.S. citizens depending on the program. This is often due to national security concerns or specific project requirements involving classified material or access to classified sites. It is essential to clarify the program's eligibility criteria when applying.

Caveat Emptor

Always consult the program officer and read the grant solicitation for the correct information. The official websites of agencies provide the final say on any question regarding eligibility and requirements. It's crucial to have a thorough understanding of each program to increase the chances of successful grant acquisition.

For non-American professors looking to secure research funding from U.S. agencies, the process may seem complex, but with the right guidance and preparation, it is achievable. By reviewing eligibility criteria, understanding collaborative opportunities, and exploring fellowship programs, international researchers can make significant strides in their research endeavors and contribute to the broader scientific community.