In partnership with The Klaus Tschira Foundation, The Kavli Foundation invites investigators to submit letters of interest (LOI) to join an ambitious collaborative research project. The goal of the project is to predict, synthesize, and experimentally characterize 3D materials with nontrivial quantum geometric effects, with a vision to realize room-temperature superconductivity in 10 years. Selected investigators will be invited to form a collaborative consortium and submit a single proposal for a research project set to achieve these goals.

The Quantum Geometry in 3D Materials Project has three key goals:

1. Seed new research projects to synthesize and experimentally characterize 3D materials that demonstrate non-trivial observable quantum geometric effects,
2. Support machine learning-aided searches of new materials and theoretical analysis of their quantum geometric and superconducting properties in support of materials synthesis and characterization,
3. Promote studies and approaches that will drive discoveries and accelerate the pace of fundamental research.

Letters of interest will be evaluated by an expert panel, with the aim to select Investigators who are qualified to participate in this collaborative research project. Letters should demonstrate compelling scientific expertise that will maximize the potential of the project to progress towards the goals. Investigators are encouraged to explore a range of scope-options in the LOI; for example, outline the minimal cost for a meaningful contribution, as well as the scope, cost, and contribution in a more expansive picture. Applications will be kept confidential to the extent possible, except as necessary for processing and evaluation. Communication among different possible investigators is encouraged (but not required) during the LOI phase.

• References:
• “Essay: Where Can Quantum Geometry Lead Us?” Physical Review Letters 131, 240001 (2023)
• “Catalogue of flat-band stoichiometric materials,” Nature 603, 824 (2022)

Application and funding specifics

• The application process is a two-stage process. Investigators are invited to submit a LOI during the first phase. Investigators who are selected in the first phase will be invited to work together to create a single collaborative project proposal.
• LOIs must be for new projects or ideas. Currently funded projects are not eligible.
• Preliminary data are not required
• A detailed budget is not required for the LOI
  • The LOI should include an estimated range of budget options, based on scientific justification and scope of work
  • A detailed budget will be required for the full proposal application
  • The budget range for the full project is $400,000 - $1,600,000USD per year for 3 to 4 years (plus up to 15% indirect costs on qualified expenses), depending on scientific justification and funder discretion
• LOIs must be submitted electronically by 5pm PST May 3, 2024 through The Kavli Foundation funding application portal

Eligibility

• Only fully completed applications submitted through the application portal will be considered.
• Applicants for funding must be at a US or international institution of higher education, or non-profit research organization, or affiliated with such an entity. For international awards, status equivalent to a US public charity or nonprofit educational institution may be required. The Kavli Foundation is unable to accept applications from individuals at organizations located in certain sanctioned territories.

Statement on inclusion

The Kavli Foundation is a catalyst for advancing scientific research, strengthening the relationship between science and society, and honoring scientific achievement. We are dedicated to the belief that scientific excellence can come from anyone, anywhere and is enriched by diverse perspectives, skills, and ways of thinking. We believe the scientific community should reflect the rich diversity of the globe - in race, gender, age, cultures, and beliefs - and we support this diversity through our grantmaking practices. All applicants will benefit from equality of opportunity and fair treatment without regard to race, color, age, religion, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and prior protected activity.

To apply, click on the green ‘Apply’ button in the upper right and log in.     

Applications are due May 3, 2024, 17:00 Pacific Time.    

Please contact   science@kavlifoundation.org   with questions.