Posted on November 26, 2012
Deadline: January 16, 2013 (Initial Proposals)

Foundational Questions Institute Announces International Request for Proposals on Physics of Information

The Foundational Questions Institute (FQXi) is a grantmaking nonprofit organization whose goal is to catalyze, support, and disseminate research that investigates questions at the foundations of physics and cosmology — particularly new frontiers and innovative ideas integral to a deep understanding of reality — but is unlikely to be supported by conventional funding sources. Since 2006, FQXi has recommended over $7.6 million in grants to researchers and outreach specialists in the United States and internationally who are working on foundational questions.

The current RFP targets research regarding the physics of information both in physics and also in related fields, including cosmology, astrophysics, mathematics, computer science, complex systems, biology, and neuroscience. Funded research will address the gap between research and technological progress on information science on one side and active study of the true physical nature of information on the other. It will also bring the research community together to focus on developing a common understanding of the different types of information and the roles they play. Most importantly, the research supported by the program should have significant implications for our understanding of the major questions across many scientific disciplines and address the deep or "ultimate" nature of reality.

Researchers and outreach specialists working in academic and other nonprofit institutions are eligible to apply. Applications are welcome from any country. Proposals must be in English.

In the 2013 competition, grants totaling approximately $3 million will be available for projects of up to two years.

The complete RFP, an FAQ, and application procedures are available at the FQXi Web site.

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Primary Subject: Science/Technology
Geographic Funding Area: National

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