The NSF Navigating the New Arctic (NNA) initiative addresses one of the most consequential global challenges of the century: the rapid, climate-driven transformation of the Arctic. Unlike narrowly focused climate or geoscience programs, NNA is an NSF-wide initiative requiring true convergence across geosciences, biology, engineering, social sciences, computer science, and education research. NNA projects must integrate natural and built systems with human and societal dimensions, incorporating Indigenous knowledge, community partnerships, and co-production of research to support decision-making in Arctic and global contexts. 

Research topics may include permafrost thaw and infrastructure resilience, sea-ice loss, ecological transitions, Arctic shipping and transportation, food and water security, environmental health, energy systems, governance frameworks, risk communication, and the cultural and economic impacts on Arctic communities. Because Arctic change has cascading global effects—from climate feedbacks to security and economic considerations—NNA encourages proposals with broad relevance and strong interdisciplinary integration. 

NNA proposals typically involve multi-institutional teams, Arctic fieldwork logistics, advanced modeling, remote sensing, sensor networks, or integration of social science with engineering and geoscience methods. Community engagement is central: proposals must demonstrate meaningful collaboration with Indigenous communities, local governments, or regional organizations, ensuring that research outputs are both scientifically rigorous and societally relevant. 

Eligibility is broad and includes U.S. universities, research organizations, Tribal organizations, and qualified small businesses. International collaborators may participate when appropriate, though primary funding must support U.S. institutions. Strong NNA proposals clearly articulate intellectual merit, broader impacts, feasibility, ethical engagement practices, and robust management plans for interdisciplinary work. 

ScienceDocs Can Help 

ScienceDocs supports NNA applicants with integrated research design, community-engagement strategy, interdisciplinary coordination, and proposal development. 
Begin at sciencedocs.com/quotes.