The U.S. National Science Foundation is an independent federal agency that supports science and engineering in all 50 states and U.S. territories. NSF was established in 1950 by Congress to promote the progress of science, advance the national health, prosperity and welfare, and secure the national defense.
The Mathematical and Physical Sciences Ascending Faculty Catalyst Awards (MPS-AFCA) aims to support the transition of MPS-Ascending Postdoctoral Research Fellows (MPS-Ascend Fellows) into tenure track (or equivalent) faculty positions within Institutions of Higher Education. This program focuses on a variety of scientific areas covered by the MPS Divisions: Astronomical Sciences, Chemistry, Materials Research, Mathematical Sciences, and Physics. It provides additional resources beyond the typical institutional start-up packages for research and broadening participation activities, encouraging significant scientific contributions and exemplary leadership in broadening participation. Eligibility is restricted to MPS-Ascend Postdoc Fellows after consultation with their Program Director.