Test Bed: Toward a Network of Programmable Cloud Laboratories (PCL Test Bed) NSF 25-541

Sponsor: NSF
Internal Deadline: 09/10/2025
Institutional Submission Limit: 1
Program Website

This program seeks to establish and facilitate the operation of distributed autonomous laboratory facilities. These laboratories will combine technological and human capacity to enable integration, testing, evaluation, validation, and translation of cutting-edge technology solutions in automated science and engineering. The PCL Test Bed will consist of a set of Programmable Cloud Laboratory Nodes (PCL Nodes) that can be remotely accessed to run custom workflows specified and programmed by users, that are linked together via computational networking, shared science questions, and data and artificial intelligence (AI) standards.

Proposals must have a set of well-defined science drivers poised to derive significant benefit from targeted use of the PCL Test Bed capabilities, including but not limited to synthesis, optimization, and/or characterization experiments, in specific sub-disciplines within materials science, biotechnology, chemistry or other areas of science and engineering. These science drivers will guide the protocols and standards necessary for each node and facilitate collaboration across the Test Bed.

NSF plans to support 4-6 PCL Nodes, at up to $20 million each for 4-years. The PCL nodes will be remotely accessed to run custom workflows specified and programmed by users. Only existing shared instrument facilities, or labs of similar capabilities, may submit a proposal to this program. PCL Nodes are expected to develop and implement plans for continued operation after the period of this award.

 - Full details: www.nsf.gov/funding/opportunities/pcl-test-bed-test-bed-toward-network-programmable-cloud-laboratories/nsf25-541/solicitation 
 - A pre-recorded webinar on the program: www.nsf.gov/funding/opportunities/pcl-test-bed-test-bed-toward-network-programmable-cloud-laboratories/updates/120118 
 - NSF Program Announcement: www.nsf.gov/news/nsf-invest-new-national-network-ai-programmable-cloud 

 

 

Submission Process

Limited submissions MUST be coordinated with the Office of the Vice President for Research.

If interested in applying for this opportunity, please combine the following items into a single PDF and email to resdev@mailbox.sc.edu by 5pm on the INTERNAL DEADLINE above:

• Cover page with grant program name & number (if applicable) to which you are applying, your project title, PI (name, department/unit, & email), and list of co-PIs/key collaborators (name & department/unit)
• a two-page project abstract addressing key components/criteria for this specific grant program (Please review section V.A. of the solicitation)
• a 2-3 page CV/biosketch for the PI (SCiENcv preferred)