Event

The National Science Foundation (NSF) hereby solicits proposals for the establishment of the Arecibo Center for STEM Education and Research (ACSER) at the original site of the Arecibo Observatory (AO). NSF seeks to evaluate proposals that would transition the existing AO site to the new ACSER, shifting the disciplinary focus from primarily on the astronomical sciences to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and research more broadly. ACSER would serve as a hub for STEM discovery and exploration by building upon existing programs and opportunities currently in place at the AO site, while also creating and implementing new STEM education, research, and outreach programs and initiatives. It is envisioned as a global science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) enterprise, and a 'living lab' for inclusive and innovative experiential STEM research and education for individuals of all ages and all interests. Interactive stationary and traveling exhibitions, interpretative displays, cyber-enabled learning and engagement platforms, interactive STEM spaces or laboratories, field experiences for student and professional researchers, preK-12 school and after-school programs, and community-based events are exemplars of education, research, and outreach activities that might be supported and implemented by ACSER.
 
NSF will be providing several opportunities to learn more about the solicitation and site resources:
 
Informational Solicitation Webinar - December 8, 2022, 3:00 pm ET
NSF will host a webinar to provide information about the solicitation, eligibility requirements, and site maintenance. A virtual tour will also be provided of the site facilities and site resources available for the proposed Arecibo Center for STEM Education and Research. Registration is required.
 
Office Hours – January-February 2023
NSF will host several open question and answer sessions for prospective proposers regarding the solicitation and site resources. These sessions will be held between December 2022 and February 2023. Prospective proposers are encouraged to attend one or more of these sessions. Registration is required.

• January 10, 2023, 3:00 PM ET
• January 25, 2023, 1:30 PM ET
• February 10, 2023, 1:00 PM ET

For specific questions regarding the solicitation, proposers may send an email to acser@nsf.gov.  

Full Proposal Deadline(s) (due by 5 p.m. submitter's local time): February 28, 2022

Register for December 8