The National Science Foundation (NSF) invites investigators at U.S. organizations to submit proposals for Doctoral Dissertation Research Improvement Grants (DDRIGs) to the Arctic Sciences Section, Office of Polar Programs (OPP) to conduct dissertation-level research about and related to the Arctic region. The Programs that are currently accepting DDRIG proposals are the Arctic Social Sciences (ASSP), Arctic System Science (ARCSS), and Arctic Observing Network (AON) Programs. The goal of this solicitation is to attract research proposals that advance a fundamental, process, and systems-level understanding of the Arctic's rapidly changing natural environment and social and cultural systems, and, where appropriate, to improve our capacity to project future change. The Arctic Sciences Section supports research focused on the Arctic region and its connectivity with lower latitudes. The scientific scope is aligned with, but not limited to, research challenges outlined in the Interagency Arctic Research Policy Committee’s five-year Arctic research plan (https://www.nsf.gov/geo/opp/arctic/iarpc/start.jsp). Given that this solicitation is designed to support early career scientists, this Program will also advance research capacity in Arctic sciences, promote workforce development in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). The Arctic Sciences Section coordinates with programs across NSF and with other federal and international partners to co-review and co-fund Arctic proposals as appropriate. The Arctic Sciences Section also maintains Arctic logistical infrastructure and field support capabilities that are available to enable research. Funding Opportunity Number: 20-597. Assistance Listing: 47.050. Funding Instrument: G. Category: ST. Award Amount: $1.3M total program funding.

Graduate Research Fellowship Program is a grant from the National Science Foundation that funds outstanding early-stage graduate students pursuing full-time, research-based master's and doctoral degrees in STEM fields, including STEM education. Each fellowship provides a $37,000 annual stipend plus a $16,000 cost-of-education allowance for up to three years. Established in 1952, the GRFP is one of the oldest and most prestigious federal fellowships in science and engineering. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents who are at or near the beginning of their graduate studies. The program covers a wide range of disciplines, from biological sciences and computer science to geosciences, social sciences, and engineering. The application deadline is October 1, 2026.