The Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation’s Symbiosis in Aquatic Systems Initiative is soliciting pre-applications for investigator awards. Our goal with the awards is to provide scientists with the resources and flexibility to pursue innovative, risky research that has high potential for illuminating how aquatic symbioses involving microbes function, and how these interactions shape ecology and evolution in marine and freshwater habitats.

We invite applications from emerging and established aquatic symbiosis research leaders, as well as scientists and engineers who may not have worked extensively on the topic but who have essential perspectives, methods, and technologies to bring in. This particular opportunity is only open to individuals to apply. There is no limit to the number of applicants who may apply from an institution.

To be eligible for this competition, applicants must:

• Hold a tenured or tenure-track position (or equivalent) for a minimum of four years, with the first appointment no later than June 3, 2015
• Have served as principal investigator on one or more major, competitive research grants (for example, NSF, NASA, ERC, DFG, Wellcome Trust, Moore Foundation).

We recognize the value of diversity and encourage individuals from all identities and backgrounds to apply. The initiative expects successful candidates will represent a variety of scientific perspectives and disciplines to enhance the diversity of tools, ideas and approaches used to address outstanding questions in aquatic symbiosis. Applications are welcome from scientists based in the United States and internationally.

We anticipate supporting approximately 12 scientists for five years (2020-2025) who represent both early and established career stages and include both current and emerging leaders in their fields. Investigators will convene at an annual symposium to share research findings and build connections across symbiosis researchers. Awards will range from approximately $200K-$400K/year in direct costs.