What is NSF's stance on collaborations in research proposals?

NSF's encouragement of collaborations in research proposals is grounded in the understanding that collaborative efforts can significantly enhance the scope and potential impact of research projects. Collaborations allow for the pooling of diverse expertise, resources, and perspectives, which can lead to more comprehensive and innovative solutions to complex scientific challenges.

By fostering collaborations, NSF aims to facilitate interdisciplinary approaches and extend the reach and applicability of research findings. Collaborations can also enhance the education and training of students and early-career researchers by exposing them to different methodologies and ideas. This collaborative spirit aligns with NSF's mission to promote the progress of science and advance national health, prosperity, and welfare.

The stance does not require every proposal to include a collaboration or limit these partnerships to specific geographic locations or scopes; rather, it emphasizes the benefits that can arise from multiple contributors working together. This approach highlights NSF's commitment to maximizing the impact of funded research through strategic partnerships.