HARRISBURG, Pa. — The Pennsylvania Sea Grant College Program has announced its 2024-26 Research Request for Proposals (RFP). Pre-proposal submissions are due by 5 p.m. on Feb. 22.
Pennsylvania Sea Grant conducts and supports scientific research that enhances the use and conservation of Pennsylvania’s coastal, watershed, and Great Lakes resources to create a healthy environment, resilient and inclusive communities, and a strong and sustainable economy. Funding is provided by the National Sea Grant College Program, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Penn State, and matching funds from participating investigator institutions.
The proposed research must support Pennsylvania Sea Grant’s strategic focus areas, which are environmental literacy and workforce development, healthy coastal ecosystems, resiliency communities and economies, and sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. Projects should be relevant to Pennsylvania’s coastal and watershed resources, with priority for project that are applicable to the Lake Erie, Susquehanna River and Delaware River watersheds, but other watersheds may be considered. Principal investigators should focus on outcomes that can be achieved in a 24-month period.
These strategic focus areas are described in the program’s 2024-27 strategic plan, which is available online.
“Pennsylvania Sea Grant supports research that expands our understanding of aquatic ecosystems, coastlines, and watersheds,” said Sean Rafferty, research director for Pennsylvania Sea Grant. “Research projects that encourage solution-based results, contribute to enhanced water quality, and that lead to natural resource management strategies in Pennsylvania are highly desirable.”
It is anticipated that five to seven projects, each receiving approximately $50,000 per year (not including indirect costs) will be funded. A minimum 50% non-federal match is required (one non-federal dollar for every two federal dollars requested). Funding requests for one-year projects may not exceed $50,000 and requests for two-year projects may not exceed $100,000 (not including indirect costs). Funding is contingent upon NOAA approval and congressional appropriation of funds. Faculty members and researchers from colleges and universities, state agencies, and other Pennsylvania not-for-profit research organizations are eligible. Pennsylvania Sea Grant support is offered on an open, competitive basis.
Visit the website for details. Questions can be directed to Sean Rafferty at srafferty@psu.edu or 814-898-7082.