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Securing Funding for Research Microscopes through the NSF MRI Program

Securing Funding for Research Microscopes

NSF MRI Program

Applying for major research funding can be a long and daunting task. When applying for funds for new experimental equipment, the National Science Foundation's Major Research Instrumentation Program (NSF MRI) is one of the largest annual funding programs, supporting projects including high-value, multi-user microscopes.

To help you streamline and strengthen your NSF application, we have gathered content to help provide education, guidance, and suggestions on preparing a winning NSF proposal. You also can consult with ZEISS personnel on the requirements pertaining to your proposal or microscopy instruments that may be well-suited to the scope of the program.

Update: Snapshot of Successful 2020 NSF MRI Proposals

  • When is the right time to prepare an NSF proposal?

    Now. Even though the January deadline seems like a long way away, if your institute has several departments vying for funding, you will need to get out in front of internal competition.

  • What must be included in my proposal?

    The structure of the program, including scope, recent history, and statistics, is included in the infographic below, which you can download for free. A recorded webinar with greater detail is available by completing the form on this page.

  • What will set my proposal apart?

    ZEISS will partner with you throughout the process, helping you to build a coalition of PIs, organize your proposal, and find ways to optimize your win rate by being as unique and competitive as possible.

  • What types of microscopes are relevant to the NSF MRI?

    The MRI program provides funding for projects in the range of $100,000 to $4 million, covering numerous types of systems including light microscopes, scanning electron microscopes (SEM and FIB-SEM), and X-ray microscopes (microCT and XRM).

Read about successful funding proposals from peer universities

“At the High-Resolution X-ray Computed Tomography Facility at The University of Texas at Austin (UTCT), we don’t know what’s coming – samples could be any size, density, or composition, so the instruments we select have to provide the best data for whatever comes through the door."

"The team landed on the ZEISS offering for the best combination of technical features and service commitment to fit the university’s needs."
  

Ready to dive into pursuing microscope funding?

Fill out this form to view a recprded webinar with details on how you can get started.  

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