Precision Measurement Grant Program (United States)

Deadline: 09-Apr-2026

The Precision Measurement Grant Program (PMGP) supports research in fundamental measurement and the determination of fundamental constants. With a focus on addressing pressing scientific challenges and fostering collaboration, the program offers grants of up to $150,000 for up to three years to eligible institutions and researchers.

About the Precision Measurement Grant Program

The Precision Measurement Grant Program (PMGP) is designed to support significant research in the field of fundamental measurement and the determination of fundamental constants. Established in 1970, the program is administered by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and aims to advance measurement science, test the basic laws of physics, and address emerging scientific opportunities. Through this program, NIST encourages collaboration between external researchers and NIST scientists to address critical scientific questions and strengthen the foundational understanding of measurement science.

Key Objectives

The PMGP focuses on:

• Advancing Fundamental Measurement Science: Supporting research that tests fundamental laws of physics and determines fundamental constants.

• Fostering Collaboration: Encouraging collaboration between external researchers and NIST scientists to address key scientific challenges.

• Emerging Research Opportunities: Providing flexibility in research topics, particularly those for which other funding sources may be difficult to secure.

• Addressing Pressing Problems: Focusing on research that addresses pressing issues in fundamental measurement science and related fields.

Funding Details

• Maximum Award Amount: Up to $150,000

• Funding Period: One-year project period, with the potential for annual renewals up to three years (subject to funding availability and project performance).

• Funding Distribution: Awarded incrementally, with up to $50,000 per year.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Accredited institutions of higher education (universities and colleges).

• Non-profit organizations

• For-profit organizations incorporated in the United States.

• State, local, Territorial, and Indian Tribal Governments

• Foreign public entities and foreign organizations

• Federal entities may participate as unfunded collaborators but cannot receive direct funding.

• Individuals and unincorporated sole proprietors are not eligible to apply.

Project Requirements and Evaluation Criteria

Applicants must propose research projects that align with the program’s objectives and requirements. Projects will be evaluated based on:

• Relevance to Fundamental Measurement: How the proposed research advances understanding in fundamental measurement and scientific objectives.

• Research Alignment: The relationship of the proposed project to ongoing measurement science efforts.

• Scientific Impact: The potential of the research to contribute to addressing significant scientific challenges.

Why This Program Matters

The Precision Measurement Grant Program plays a crucial role in advancing measurement science and supporting fundamental research in physics. By providing funding and fostering collaboration between external researchers and NIST scientists, the program helps address key challenges in measurement science while capitalizing on emerging research opportunities. The initiative is essential for strengthening the scientific foundation for a variety of disciplines, from physics to engineering, and supporting advancements in technology and industry.

FAQs

1. Who can apply for the PMGP? Eligible applicants include accredited institutions, non-profit organizations, for-profit entities, and foreign organizations.

2. What is the maximum funding available? The program offers up to $150,000, distributed over a maximum of three years.

3. Can federal entities apply for funding? No, federal entities cannot receive funding but can participate as unfunded collaborators.

4. What is the project duration? The award period is one year, renewable up to three years based on performance.

5. What is the funding distribution? Funding is distributed in increments of up to $50,000 per year.

6. How are projects evaluated? Proposals are evaluated based on their relevance to fundamental measurement science and their potential to address significant scientific challenges.

Conclusion

The Precision Measurement Grant Program provides critical funding for advancing research in fundamental measurement and the determination of fundamental constants. By supporting collaboration and offering flexible research opportunities, this program helps drive progress in measurement science and fosters long-term scientific advancements across a range of disciplines.

For more information, visit Grants.gov.