The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) is investing in the next generation of Quantum Information Science and Technology (QIST), supporting the goals of the National Quantum Initiative and creating opportunities for transformative impacts across science and engineering. The Directorate for Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences (SBE) is excited to be a part of these initiatives, including the new National Quantum and Nanotechnology Infrastructure (NQNI) program, which aims to broaden the user base for quantum and nanotechnology instrumentation and facilities across the United States. If interested, the new funding opportunity requires a letter of intent by March 16, 2026. 

QIST supports U.S. competitiveness in a wide range of scientific and technical fields from foundational theory developments to real-world application of QIST products for advancing science, including SBE sciences. For example, the first generation of investments in quantum technologies brought us magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), now widely used in both biomedical settings and as a key research instrument for human neuroscience. Now, recent developments in quantum sensing are advancing the next frontier of brain imaging, using techniques such as optically pumped magnetometers for magnetoencephalography (OPM-MEG). 

Other advances in QIST have the potential to create new opportunities in additional areas relevant to SBE researchers, such as remote sensing, technologies for proteomics and metabolomics, and the application of quantum computing to solve computationally intensive problems in a variety of disciplines. SBE sciences are also vital to supporting the continued growth of the QIST workforce, providing insights into the economic and societal impacts of QIST and understanding workforce development needs.  

Researchers in the social, behavioral, and economic sciences are end users of quantum technologies and provide the domain expertise needed to unlock the full potential of QIST. We are looking forward to continuing to see how SBE researchers expand translation and advancement of QIST in new and creative ways that benefit us all. 

Learn more about the U.S. National Science Foundation’s early investments in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Listen to a recent episode from The Discovery Files podcast on advances in quantum computing in research and industry. 

The U.S. National Science Foundation has launched a $100M National Quantum and Nanotechnology Research Infrastructure program. Together the Directorates for Social, Behavioral and Economic Sciences, Engineering, Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Biological Sciences, STEM Education, and the Office of International Science and Engineering will support up to 16 sites over five years. These sites will provide students, researchers, and industry with access to state-of-the-art fabrication and characterization tools, instrumentation, and expertise.  

Letters of Intent are required and due March 16, 2026.  

Learn more about this funding opportunity and how to apply. 

Have questions? Inquiries can be sent to NQNI@nsf.gov