Targeted Grants in MPS: FAQs

Yes, non-U.S. institutions may apply. Please see our policies regarding non-U.S. Awards.

While there are no fixed guidelines, projects at the single-or few-PI scale that might be funded by federal agencies would not normally be considered under the Targeted Grants in MPS program.

The emphasis of the program is theory, but projects with some experimental components may be considered.

No, we do not accept applications from adjunct faculty.

No, we are not considering proposals in chemistry at this time.

No, there is no limit.

Yes, there is no limit on the number of times one can reapply.

The grant is awarded to the applicant’s institution.

Indirect costs are allowed for this award and must follow our indirect cost policy (see our policies). The indirect cost rate is nonnegotiable

For assistance navigating SAM, please refer to the SAM frequently asked questions and instructional videos webpage.

If changes are required to the LOI/application after submission, you must first contact [email protected]. If it is a full application, once revised, it must be sent for sign-off and signed by the Signing Official again in order to resubmit.

Only one person can edit a record at a time. A record will be locked for editing if another user already has it opened, and a gray bar will display at the bottom of the record to prevent multiple users from overwriting one another’s changes. Ask other users at your institution to close the application, then refresh your page. If this still does not correct the issue, please reach out to [email protected].

All LOIs/applications must be submitted via the Simons Award Manager (SAM). Please refer to the submission instructions for detailed steps on how to complete and submit your LOI/application. We will not accept LOIs/applications or individual application materials submitted via email or mail.

Please note that in the event of budgetary or other considerations, The Simons Foundation, Inc. (“the Foundation” or “SF”) reserves the right to refer an application to SFI for consideration and funding. SFI and SF have entered into an agreement pursuant to which SF provides program operations and grant administration services, including payment processing, to SFI. SFI grant recipients are subject to SF Policies and Procedures.