Scientific Discovery through Computing (SCiDAC): Partnerships in Basic Energy Sciences

The Department of Energy (DOE) announces a funding opportunity under the Scientific Discovery through Advanced Computing (SciDAC) program, aimed at fostering interdisciplinary partnerships in Basic Energy Sciences (BES) and Advanced Scientific Computing Research (ASCR). The initiative, outlined in NOFO Number DE-FOA-0003515, seeks proposals from teams focusing on accelerating scientific discovery leveraging advanced computing capabilities at DOE's facilities. The total anticipated funding is $40 million, with individual awards ranging from $1 million to $2.5 million over four years. Proposals must address fundamental research within targeted areas: complex dynamical systems for energy-relevant materials, reliable and explainable AI for mechanistic extraction, and foundation models for chemical and materials sciences. Eligible applicants include diverse U.S. entities, but nonprofits engaged in lobbying are excluded. A pre-application is mandatory, due February 21, 2025, followed by applications due April 25, 2025. The project aims to bridge gaps between domain scientists and applied mathematicians/computer scientists, achieving advancements that would be difficult outside collaborative frameworks. The initiative underscores the DOE's commitment to enhancing scientific understanding and technological innovation in energy-related research.