Perspective and update from the National Science Foundation

The National Science Foundation supports plasma science and engineering research across the breadth of the field, from fundamental physics explorations, to studies of geospace and astrophysical plasma phenomena, to use-inspired engineering and technology applications. Individual investigator projects in plasma science and engineering are supported through core programs in NSF Directorates for Engineering, Geosciences, and Mathematical and Physical Sciences, with more complex multi-disciplinary and other center-like efforts supported via dedicated programs managed by these as well as other NSF units. The interdisciplinary nature of low temperature plasma research, in particular, provides both challenges and opportunities for the community within the NSF funding structure. Recent NSF funding opportunities for interdisciplinary research included the Emerging Frontiers in Research and Innovation solicitation ( https://www.nsf.gov/pubs/2020/nsf20614/nsf20614.htm ) and the Growing Convergence Research solicitation (https://www.nsf.gov/pubs/2019/nsf19551/nsf19551.htm). This presentation will provide a brief overview of some of the newly established programs, recently funded projects, and other updates from NSF that may be of particular interest to the LTP community.