Proposals are due on Tuesday, October 5, 2026 by 11:59pm PT.
Scope
The Stanford Doerr Discovery Grants emphasize fundamental, inquiry-based research for all topical areas within the SDSS community. We seek to support research that is novel and creative, and which is aimed at advancing our understanding of Earth, life (biological and societal), and engineered systems. We welcome cutting-edge endeavors that are seen as too risky for conventional funding sources. Priority for funding will be given towards proposals that do not easily fit within the solutions-focused calls such as Woods EVP, Precourt Pioneers, Solution Areas/Integrative Projects, or Sustainability Accelerator Flagship Destinations.
Eligibility
Proposals must be submitted by a faculty member with 0% or greater appointment within the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability (departments and institutes). Similarly, named co-Principal Investigators must be Stanford University faculty. Scientific staff within SDSS with PI-eligibility are also eligible. Emeritus faculty are not eligible. Faculty may not submit more than one proposal in which they are the lead PI.
Award Amount & Duration
Funding available is up to $150,000 for a 2-year award. The funding will be split equally between each year. No cost extensions will be available for up to 1 year beyond the award period for projects that have made adequate progress.
More information can be found in the full Request for Proposal.
Stanford Doerr Discovery Grants Program 2026
Proposals are due on Tuesday, October 5, 2026 by 11:59pm PT.
Scope
The Stanford Doerr Discovery Grants emphasize fundamental, inquiry-based research for all topical areas within the SDSS community. We seek to support research that is novel and creative, and which is aimed at advancing our understanding of Earth, life (biological and societal), and engineered systems. We welcome cutting-edge endeavors that are seen as too risky for conventional funding sources. Priority for funding will be given towards proposals that do not easily fit within the solutions-focused calls such as Woods EVP, Precourt Pioneers, Solution Areas/Integrative Projects, or Sustainability Accelerator Flagship Destinations.
Eligibility
Proposals must be submitted by a faculty member with 0% or greater appointment within the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability (departments and institutes). Similarly, named co-Principal Investigators must be Stanford University faculty. Scientific staff within SDSS with PI-eligibility are also eligible. Emeritus faculty are not eligible. Faculty may not submit more than one proposal in which they are the lead PI.
Award Amount & Duration
Funding available is up to $150,000 for a 2-year award. The funding will be split equally between each year. No cost extensions will be available for up to 1 year beyond the award period for projects that have made adequate progress.
More information can be found in the full Request for Proposal.