Anyone have experience with NSF grants?

[EnumaElish]

Say I wanted to apply for an NSF grant. Is it an arduous process (the application, I know the research will be)? Is it something that I can hope to do on my own, or do I need the services of a professional grants application specialist?

 

[Asphodel]

NSF grants are a pretty broad topic, as they're responsible for a large chunk of US government sponsored research funds. Some are relatively easy to apply for, especially if you find one targeted at undergraduate researchers. Grant funds for professional research programmes tend to have very strict guidelines, and grant applications that don't meet the guidelines are typically discarded.

I haven't applied for an NSF research grant, this info is largely gleaned from a session they held at a recent AAS conference (although I did indirectly receive a tuition grant that sort of falls in this category :/ ).

I don't know your background, but if you're associated with a university, there are probably several possible places to turn for support. I can think of two solid ones (an undergraduate research office and my department inclusive of professors that could provide advice) as well as a longer list of places that might help (honors program advisors, undergraduate advisors/offices/services, the actual grant office devoted to serving the university's researchers, and so forth). If you write up a solid proposal of what you want to do and what you need to do it, I suspect you can find some degree of funding whether through the NSF or elsewhere.

 

[Mene]

As a scientist who has applied for and received NSF grants, I can provide some insight into the process. Applying for an NSF grant can be a complex and time-consuming process, but it is certainly possible to do on your own. However, it is important to thoroughly read and understand the application guidelines and requirements to ensure that your proposal meets all necessary criteria.

The application itself may involve a significant amount of writing and data collection, so it is important to start early and allow yourself enough time to complete it. It is also helpful to seek feedback from colleagues or mentors who have successfully applied for NSF grants in the past, as they can provide valuable insights and suggestions for improvement.

While it is not necessary to hire a professional grants application specialist, it may be beneficial for some individuals who are new to the process or have limited experience in grant writing. These specialists can provide guidance and support in crafting a strong and competitive proposal.

In summary, applying for an NSF grant can be a challenging but rewarding experience. With careful planning, dedication, and a thorough understanding of the guidelines, it is certainly possible to successfully apply for an NSF grant on your own. However, seeking guidance from experienced colleagues or hiring a professional grants application specialist can also be helpful in ensuring a strong and competitive application.