Earlier this week, NSF highlighted the work of MCB funded researcher, Julius Lucks, who used the tools of synthetic biology to develop a simple, low cost, water quality measurement device. 

Professor Lucks is an example of a faculty members that NSF funds at many stages in their careers – from postdoctoral support either individually, through the  Engineering Research Center (ERC) Program, or otherwise; CAREER awards; investigator-initiated awards supported by our core programs; and in other methods.

Specifically, Lucks was supported by the ERC program, which integrates cutting edge engineering research with translation and workforce development, a CAREER award, other awards from MCB and other NSF Divisions, and an award from the National Science Foundation Research Traineeship program, a program designed to provide graduate students with skills, knowledge and competencies to pursue a range of STEM careers. 

To learn more about how NSF funds STEM from cradle to career, check out some articles from NSF 101:

• The Graduate Research Program
• Funding opportunities for early career researchers
• Four tips for applying to NSF’s CAREER program
• The Mid-Career Advancement program
• Move ideas out of the lab with 4 NSF technology translation programs
• Funding opportunities for minority-serving institutions (NEW!)

You can also view MCB funding opportunities as well as all NSF funding opportunities.