Posted on August 21, 2012
Deadline: October 15, 2012

John Templeton Foundation Announces Meaning of Evolutionary Convergence Grant Program

The John Templeton Foundation has announced the launch of a $5 million initiative to support research on the significance of biological convergence for a better understanding of the living world.

Eligible proposals might include philosophical investigation of some aspect of convergence, of the phenomenon itself in light of current models of biological process, or investigation of the history of its study with an eye toward clarification of the concept of convergence, its use, and meanings. Alternatively, applicants may wish to propose empirical, synthetic, or simulation studies, or pilots for larger scale empirical projects. Applicants may propose projects involving convergent evolution at any level (chemical, organ, etc.). However, the foundation encourages use of biological contexts generally accepted as true examples of convergence, or which applicants are confident they can prove to be so, since research on its meanings is likely to be sufficiently contentious without this added concern.

In general, the foundation recommends convergence program grant requests no larger than $200,000 for conceptual and pilot projects, and no larger than $1 million for empirical projects. However, the foundation welcomes conversations concerning possible exceptions. Proposals for up to three years of funding will be considered. For grants made outside the United States, or otherwise under expenditure responsibility, the maximum grant length is thirty-three months.

The foundation also is currently accepting online funding inquiries for its core funding areas. Core funding topics include science and the big questions (mathematical and physical sciences, life sciences, human sciences, philosophy and theology, science in dialogue with philosophy or theology), character development, freedom and free enterprise, exceptional cognitive talent and genius, and genetics. The foundation accepts core funding areas inquiries twice a year and reviews them in relation to all other funding requests received during the same submission window. If the foundation approves an online funding inquiry, it will ask for a more detailed full proposal. Please note that full proposals are by invitation only.

Visit the Templeton Web site for complete program information and to submit an online funding inquiry.

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Primary Subject: Science/Technology
Geographic Funding Area(s): International

Looking for additional funders in the field of Science/Technology?
Foundation Directory Online allows you to search the entire universe of U.S. grantmakers. Target your search by field of interest, type of support, geographic focus, and more. Find the plan that's right for you»