Stanford Doerr Discovery Grants - 2026 Call for Proposals

Scope

The Stanford Doerr Discovery Grants emphasize fundamental, inquiry-based research for all topical areas within the SDSS community. We seek to support research that is novel and creative, and which is aimed at advancing our understanding of Earth, life (biological and societal), and engineered systems. We welcome cutting-edge endeavors that are seen as too risky for conventional funding sources.

The Discovery Grant program is designed to support blue sky research and is not directed at solution-oriented research (examples). Priority for funding will be given towards proposals that do not easily fit within the SDSS solutions-focused calls such as Woods EVP, Precourt Pioneers, Solution Areas Program, or Sustainability Accelerator.

Eligibility

Proposals must be submitted by a faculty member with 0% or greater appointment within the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability (departments and institutes). Similarly, named co-Principal Investigators must be Stanford University faculty. Scientific staff within SDSS with PI-eligibility are also eligible. Emeritus faculty are not eligible. Faculty may not submit more than one proposal in which they are the lead PI. Faculty with an active Discovery Grant are not eligible to submit a new proposal.

Award Amount & Duration

Funding available is up to $150,000 for a 2-year award. 

More information can be found in the full Request for Proposal.