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EMSL will announce its annual call for proposals on Jan. 3.
"Scientists come to EMSL to collaborate with our staff to solve a problem," says Terry Law, user program services manager. "Instrument operation and analysis may be the nuts and bolts of what we do, but it's the expertise of our staff that draws scientists here. That's what sets us apart from other user facilities."
The call for fiscal year 2018 proposals will offer two tracks – science theme research and Facilities Integrating Collaborations for User Science, or FICUS, with the Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute. Each track will have its own closing date.
"Having multiple tracks allows potential users to select where their science fits best. They don't have to apply to just one, they can apply to both tracks if they want," says Law.
Science Theme Proposals
Researchers can submit proposals for research that addresses specific topics related to EMSL’s science themes until the end of February.
These proposals should address emerging science areas of interest to EMSL, the DOE’s Office of Biological and Environmental Research and the DOE.
More information about this track will be available on the call for FY 2018 science theme research webpage when EMSL announces the call. The website will also provide contact information and links to the review criteria and proposal package guidance.
FICUS Letters of Intent
Users can submit letters of intent for the FICUS call until early April. This track allows researchers to combine the capabilities at EMSL and DOE JGI into one proposed research project.
Applications for this collaborative call will follow a proposal package, schedule and review process tailored to meet both user facilities' requirements. The call for FY 2018 FICUS proposals webpage will have details for this year’s focused topics, as well as contact information and links to the review criteria and proposal package guidance.
How to Write a Successful Proposal
The most important step for a successful proposal is to carefully read the focus of the call and contact the appropriate EMSL capability or science theme leads to discuss research ideas prior to writing the proposal. The leads can help potential users develop much stronger submissions.
“In addition, potential users should not rely on past proposal submissions," says Law. "Requirements change, so they need to carefully follow the new proposal package guidance.”
Read more tips and suggestions for writing a successful proposal.
Researchers can direct questions about the calls to the user support office, 509-371-6003.