Foundational Research in Robotics

The Foundational Research in Robotics (FRR) program is an initiative jointly led by the CISE and ENG Directorates. It aims to fund research on robotic systems that display high levels of complexity, both physically and computationally. The program envisions a robot as an intelligent mechanism capable of processing information, sensing, planning, and moving or significantly modifying its environment.

The program welcomes projects which holistically consider the intertwining of intelligence, computation, and embodiment. Research focussing on a particular aspect of these elements is also considered, as long as it is justified within the context of robots. The core purpose of the FRR program is to contribute to foundational developments in robotics, an area widely recognised for its interdisciplinarity. Researchers across the fields of fundamental engineering and computer science facing challenges in robotics are highly encouraged to submit proposals.

To be eligible for the program, proposals should clearly detail the following aspects. First, the research project must focus on a robot or a category of robots, as defined above. Second, the project should aim to provide a robotic entity with new capabilities or significantly upgrade existing ones. Third, the research must be crucial in filling notable gaps in robotics.

Applicants are advised to conduct real-world experiments on a physical platform for validation of their research. However, projects that don't contribute directly to the science of robotics, or projects better positioned for other existing NSF programs should not be submitted to the FRR program.

Potential investigators are strongly encouraged to discuss their projects with an FRR Program Officer before submission. Any submission that fails to meet these guidelines may potentially be returned without review.