Research Coordination Networks (RCN)

The goal of this program is to advance a field or create new directions in research or education. Innovative ideas for implementing novel networking strategies are especially encouraged. Groups of investigators will be supported to communicate and coordinate their research, training and educational activities across disciplinary, organizational, geographic and international boundaries. Proposed networking activities directed to the general RCN program should focus on a theme to give coherence to the collaboration, such as a broad research question or particular technologies or approaches. The general RCN program will provide review for proposals to participating core programs and directorates listed in the solicitation, excepting Mathematical & Physical Sciences. Proposals involving mathematical and physical scientists will be accepted under the targeted physical/life science interface track described below. Additional targeted tracks within the RCN programs are intended to foster linkages across selected directorates.RCN-UBE: The Undergraduate Biology Education track could focus on any topic likely to lead to improved participation, learning, or assessment in undergraduate biology curricula. RCN-PLS: The physical/life science interface track focuses on topics at the interface of the biological and either the mathematical or physical sciences.