Focused Research Hubs in Theoretical Physics (FRHTP)

The Focused Research Hubs in Theoretical Physics (FRHTP) program enhances significant breakthroughs at the intellectual frontiers of physics by providing resources beyond those typically available to individual investigators. The program promotes a collaborative approach to a focused topic while supporting the preparation of scientists at the beginning of their independent research careers.

Although proposals may include interdisciplinary aspects, the bulk of the proposed effort must fall within the purview of MPS Physics research programs. A successful hub proposal will demonstrate:

1.    The potential to advance science.

2.    The enhancement of the development of early career scientists.

3.    Creative, substantive activities aimed at enhancing education, workforce development activities in STEM and public outreach.

4.    The potential for broader impacts, e.g., impacts on other field(s) and benefits to society.

5.    A synergy or value-added rationale that justifies a group approach.

Hubs are funded for an initial duration of five years. The proposed goals of the research topic(s) should be achieved in the first five years of the project. Hub awards will provide support only for postdoctoral researchers plus general support for hub-related activities. Hubs are not intended to provide additional support for senior personnel (individual PIs), graduate or undergraduate students. Instead, the Hub supports postdoctoral researchers and enables collaborative interactions via support for travel, collaboration meetings and workshops.

FRHTP topic and PHY program accepting proposals: None

Proposals may be submitted only in the specific theoretical physics topic(s) listed above. MPS-Physics will update this page with current priority topics. MPS-Physics expects to fund one hub per topic.

PIs are strongly encouraged to provide explicit information regarding how their proposal ensures:

• Responsiveness to NSF priority research areas
• Accountability, including milestones, metrics for success, risks and risk mitigation, reproducibility and replicability.

NSF strongly recommends that prospective PIs contact the program when new topics are announced to ascertain that the focus and budget of their proposal are appropriate for the program.