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Antarctic Sciences

Section Head: Sarah Ruth

The Antarctic Sciences Section (ANT) of the Office of Polar Programs (OPP) supports cutting-edge research that:

  • Improves understanding of interactions among the Antarctic region and global systems;
  • Expands fundamental knowledge of Antarctic systems, biota, and processes;
  • Utilizes the unique characteristics of the Antarctic region as a science observing platform; and
  • Builds capacity and enhances diversity in the US workforce for polar-related science.

The U.S. Antarctic Program (USAP) supports scientific research in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean with logistics provided by OPP's Antarctic Infrastructure and Logistics Section (AIL). Antarctic fieldwork is supported only for research that must be performed, or is best performed, in Antarctica.

ANT encourages and supports non-fieldwork research that crosses and combines disciplinary perspectives and approaches from other fields and/or research that uses existing data and samples, and other research not requiring a presence in Antarctica. This may include research undertaken at analogue locations outside Antarctica.

Diversifying and broadening participation is a priority for the Antarctic Sciences Section. ANT encourages the leadership, partnership, and contributions of individuals who are members of groups underrepresented and/or underserved in all opportunities in STEM education programs and careers. ANT promotes and expects that all individuals, including those from groups that are underrepresented and/or underserved in STEM, are treated equitably and inclusively throughout the Foundation's proposal and award process.

The Antarctic Sciences Section coordinates with programs across NSF and with other federal and international partners to co-review and co-fund Antarctic-related proposals as appropriate.

Researchers who would like to discuss a proposal or funded project should contact the relevant program director. Section staff and contact details can be found here: Antarctic Sciences Section Staff.

Current Funding Opportunities

Announcement and Updates

Reports and Studies