The Soft Matter Incubator (SMI, smi.gatech.edu) seed grant program seeks proposals on fundamental soft matter that will enable obtaining preliminary data for submitting multi-investigator proposals. As a result, only proposals with a strong scientific potential and significance, which clearly articulate a path forward towards assembling a strong team and a cohesive theme, will be considered. Since multi-investigator proposals will require teams with investigators at different career stages, the submitting team must consist of at least two GT investigators, one of which must be associated with SMI, and that have different academic rank (Assistant, Associate or Full Professor).
Proposals should include a Project Summary of no more than 250 words and a Project Description that should not exceed two pages. Emphasis will be placed on proposals that clearly articulate why the research is new and important and how it can lead to the assembly of a larger team and the eventual development of a multi-investigator proposal. We anticipate awarding two-three seed grants. A separate one-page budget, not to exceed $15,000, should also be provided. Seed grant funds may be used to support student salaries, and materials and supplies.
Proposals should be submitted electronically to Sharon Lawrence (sharon.lawrence@chemistry.gatech.edu).
There is no deadline; applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis. However, funds must be spent by May 15, 2019.
Required deliverables include a final written report on progress made and a presentation of the major findings/results and the path for continuing the work and/or submitting proposals seeking external funds.
Faculty can sign up for membership to SMI at smi.gatech.edu. Announcement of the Seed Grant calls will be emailed to SMI members.
