The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is offering a funding opportunity under the Science to Achieve Results (STAR) Program to develop and demonstrate nanosensor technology aimed at detecting, monitoring, and degrading per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in groundwater and surface water. Proposals should focus on innovative applications of nanotechnology that not only detect PFAS but also effectively degrade these contaminants into non-harmful by-products, with an emphasis on practical outputs such as scalable nanosensors for real-time monitoring. This initiative is crucial for addressing environmental challenges related to water quality and public health, particularly in underserved communities, and encourages participation from minority-serving institutions. The total funding available for this opportunity is approximately $1.5 million, with a submission deadline of November 13, 2024. Interested applicants can reach out to Hayley Aja at aja.hayley@epa.gov or Ron Josephson at josephson.ron@epa.gov for further information.

EPA-G2024-STAR-G1

EPA-G2024-STAR-G1.pdf

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced funding under the Science to Achieve Results (STAR) Program aimed at developing nanosensor technology to detect, monitor, and degrade per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in groundwater and surface water. Priority is given to innovative research proposals that utilize nanotechnology for effective PFAS management, specifically targeting detection capabilities and degradation methods that produce non-harmful by-products. The funding opportunity includes a total allocation of approximately $1.5 million for one selected project, with eligibility extended to public and nonprofit institutions, tribal governments, and specific educational entities. Applicants must demonstrate practical applications of their research and detail expected outputs, such as scalable nanosensors capable of real-time monitoring and efficient PFAS degradation. Additionally, the EPA emphasizes inclusivity by encouraging participation from minority-serving institutions and addressing the needs of rural and underserved communities. Proposals must adhere to the EPA's guidelines, including the submission of a scientific data management plan, and comply with quality assurance standards. The solicitation process will take place from July 31, 2024, to November 13, 2024.

This funding opportunity is soliciting research to develop and demonstrate nanosensor technology with functionalized catalysts that have the potential to degrade selected contaminants in addition to detecting and monitoring pollutants. Specifically, EPA is seeking proposals that use nanotechnology to detect, monitor, and degrade PFAS in groundwater or surface water that may be used as drinking water sources. The Science to Achieve Results (STAR) Program&#8217;s goal is to stimulate and support scientific and engineering research that advances EPA&#8217;s mission to protect human health and the environment. It is a competitive, peer-reviewed, extramural research program that provides access to the nation&#8217;s best scientists and engineers in academic and other nonprofit research institutions. STAR funds research on the environmental and public health effects of air quality, environmental changes, water quality and quantity, hazardous waste, toxic substances, and pesticides. EPA recognizes that it is important to engage all available minds to address the environmental challenges facing the Nation. EPA seeks to expand the environmental conversation by including members of communities which may have not previously participated in such dialogues to participate in EPA programs. For this reason, EPA strongly encourages all eligible applicants identified in Section III, including minority serving institutions (MSIs), to apply under this opportunity.

Hayley Aja; Ron Josephson; Electronic Submissions

Further information, if needed, may be obtained from the EPA contacts indicated below. Information regarding this funding opportunity obtained from sources other than these Agency Contacts may not be accurate. Email inquiries are preferred.  &lt;br/&gt; &lt;br/&gt;Technical Contact: Hayley Aja; phone: 202-564-6427; email: aja.hayley@epa.gov  &lt;br/&gt; &lt;br/&gt;Eligibility Contact: Ron Josephson; phone: 202-564-7823; email: josephson.ron@epa.gov  &lt;br/&gt; &lt;br/&gt;Electronic Submissions Contact: electronic-grant-submissions@epa.gov

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