FIRP Track 2 proposals support domestic research projects that require a single FARE asset. Deployments involving aircraft, multiple instrument systems, or multi-year operations are not eligible under Track 2. 

Track 2 FIRP proposals must be submitted to NSF 9–15 months prior to the planned research activity. 

A copy of the PI-submitted facility request and EOL-provided cost estimate, both available through the FARE Planner Tool, must be included as supplementary documentation with the FIRP proposal. 

For detailed guidance, please refer to the NSF Facility and Instrumentation Request Process (FIRP) solicitation.

 

EOL Request Process

To allow sufficient time for preparation and coordination, the following steps are required:

  • PI engages with EOL during proposal development to discuss facility suitability and availability for the proposed research.
  • PI submits the required Statement of Interest through the FARE Planner Tool three (3) months prior to proposal submission.
  • NSF FARE Program Director confirms the Track 2 proposal pathway and proposal deadline.
  • PI submits a facility request through the FARE Planner Tool at least two (2) months before the FIRP proposal submission deadline.
  • EOL prepares a draft feasibility assessment and Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) cost estimate for the requested LAOF.
  • EOL uploads the draft feasibility assessment and ROM cost estimate to the FARE Planner Tool no later than two (2) weeks before the FIRP proposal deadline.
  • PI downloads the required documents from the FARE Planner Tool and includes them with the FIRP proposal submission.
  • NSF reviews the proposal and makes a funding decision.
  • If funded, EOL updates the draft feasibility assessment and cost estimates and uploads them to the FARE Planner Tool.
  • PI and EOL staff being project planning and implementation.

 

Required & Supplementary Documents in FARE Planner Tool

Prepare the following required document in PDF format for upload to the FARE Planner Tool as part of the facility request.

  • Experiment Plan (no more than 10 pages)
    This document should describe the experimental setup and planned use of the requested LAOF.  
  • Data Management Plan (no page limit)
    This document should provide an overview of how project data will be managed, shared, and archived through the project lifecycle.

 

 

Contact:
Brigitte Baeuerle (baeuerle@ucar.edu)