EONS 2018: Appendix E Minority University Research and Education Project (MUREP) for Sustainability and Innovation Collaborative – (MUSIC)

The EONS 2018: Appendix E Minority University Research and Education Project (MUREP) for Sustainability and Innovation Collaborative (MUSIC) is inviting applications from eligible Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs), partnering with nonprofit organizations in the United States. Successful applicants will be awarded cooperative agreements under this NASA Research Announcement (NRA).

Every interested institution is advised to send their questions to NASAMUSIC@nasaprs.com at least 10 business days before the proposal's due date. This is to give NASA ample time to respond. On or before the submission deadline, applicants must possess the following: a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number, valid registration with the System for Award Management (SAM) and NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System (NSPIRES), and a Commercial And Government Entity (CAGE) Code. Likewise, any entities proposed for sub-awards or subcontracts should also be registered with NSPIRES. Information on eligibility and partnership guidelines are available in Appendix H Sections H.3.1 and 2.2, respectively.

The focus of NASA MUSIC is to enhance STEM education and research at MSIs and to ensure long-term sustainability. It aims to advance the institutional capacity of MSIs and their understanding of how to compete successfully for funding opportunities, including those at NASA.

The initiative seeks to increase efficiency, optimize resources, and develop important partnerships among MSIs and other stakeholders. It is also about connecting MSI administrators and STEM leaders with NASA's cutting-edge initiatives, which can boost interest in securing research and contracting opportunities in line with NASA's policy.

MUSIC also seeks to extend the capabilities of MSIs by tapping into their research strengths to develop innovative technologies that can be commercialized and preparing faculty members to actively participate with NASA researchers and missions.

Proposals from MSIs that would stimulate interest in STEM are highly sought after.

All institutions intending to send in a proposal, including those proposed for prime awards or other partners like education institutions, nonprofit institutions, and subcontracting organizations must be registered in NSPIRES. Electronic submission of proposals is necessary and must be sent by an authorized official of the proposing organization.

Electronic proposals are generally submitted through the NASA proposal data system NSPIRES or via Grants.gov, both of which require registration.

Updates to this NRA, additional details, and any Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) will be posted on http://nspires.nasaprs.com. It is the responsibility of the applicant to routinely check NSPIRES for updates to this NRA.