The NSF has recently released updated guidelines for the former Nanoscale Science & Engineering program–now known as Active Nanostructures and Nanosystems (ANN). The goal of this program is to catalyze synergistic science and engineering research in emerging areas of nanoscale science and technology, including: fundamental nanoscale phenomena and processes in active nanostructures; nanosystems with improved functionality and new architectures; hierarchical nanomanufacturing; and long-term societal and educational implications of scientific and technological advances on the nanoscale.

This solicitation will provide support for: Nanoscale Interdisciplinary Research Teams (NIRT) and Nanoscale Exploratory Research (NER).

The University may submit only three NIRT and two NER applications to the NSF in response to this notification. Therefore, the OVPR requests that departments and faculty interested in participating in the ANN program submit the following:

· A brief description (no more than 3-4 pages) of the proposed research;
· A clear declaration of which program the research is intended (NIRT or NER)
· A clear declaration of the proposed P.I. for the research and associated WSU personnel; and
· The signature of the appropriate college dean and department chair.

Applications must be clearly labeled NIRT or NER at the top of the first page, and should be sent to:

OVPR
Room 6405.3
5057 Woodward

All proposals must be submitted by noon of Monday, October 10, 2005. Because of the high competition for this program, all pre-proposals must be received by this date.

Thank you for your cooperation. Guidelines for the program are available at the URL: http://www.nsf.gov/pubs/2005/nsf05610/nsf05610.htm .