Re-entry to Active Research Program

The Re-entry to Active Research (RARE) program, run by the Division of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental, and Transport Systems (CBET) and the Division of Chemistry (CHE), is designed to bring highly qualified scientists and engineers back into active research after a break. The goal of the program is to increase diversity and re-introduce experts back into the academic world.

The RARE program handles proposals for potentially transformative research within the scope of CBET or CHE programs. There are two distinct tracks within the program to aid individuals at different points in their academic careers.

Track 1 provides competitive funding opportunities for academics looking to return to the field. It specifically accommodates those who may have a gap in their work history due to their hiatus. The budget for a Track 1 proposal should align with the guidelines of the relevant CBET or CHE program for unsolicited research.

Track 2 offers retraining for those who need to learn new techniques or update old ones due to their hiatus from research. Proposals under this track need to describe how these new skills will enhance their competitive research abilities within CBET or CHE programs. The Track 2 proposal budget covers costs related to retraining like conference registration fees, workshop travel costs, a retraining sabbatical, or seed funding for preliminary data collection.

For questions or inquiries about the program, contact RAREquestions@NSF.GOV or reach out to a RARE Program Officer.