The U.S. Department of Energy's 2025 University Reactor Sharing and Outreach Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) aims to enhance nuclear science and engineering education by supporting universities with nuclear research reactors. With approximately $1 million available, eligible "Host Institutions" can apply for grants up to $200,000 to foster collaboration with "User Institutions" (colleges without reactors) and engage underrepresented communities in STEM. The funding encourages initiatives like laboratory enhancements, reactor tours for students, and community workshops, promoting increased awareness of nuclear technologies. Applications are due by October 16, 2024, with requirements including registration on relevant federal platforms. The review process will evaluate the project's impact, feasibility, and team capabilities, prioritizing innovative outreach and successful integration of reactor resources to achieve educational goals. Overall, the FOA supports a strategic approach to building a skilled nuclear workforce while enhancing public understanding of nuclear energy.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) issued a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) for the Fiscal Year 2025, focused on enhancing nuclear science education through the University Reactor Sharing and Outreach (RS&O) program. This initiative aims to support U.S. colleges and universities with nuclear research reactors, termed Host Institutions, in sharing resources with educational institutions lacking such facilities. It seeks to strengthen nuclear science curricula, foster collaboration among students and faculty, improve community awareness of nuclear technologies, and encourage participation from historically underrepresented communities in STEM fields.
The DOE allocates approximately $1 million, with individual awards capped at $200,000, and anticipates making around five awards based on quality and fund availability. Eligible applicants include U.S. universities and colleges with research reactors, which may collaborate with other educational institutions. The application process requires several registrations and adherence to strict formatting criteria. Key evaluations will assess the project’s impact on education and outreach, logical completion pathways, and the applicant team's capabilities.
Overall, this FOA represents the DOE's strategic investment in advancing nuclear education and equity in scientific exploration.