Get in Touch
Date
Time
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Zoom
The National Science Foundation (NSF) PCL Test Bed (Programmable Cloud Laboratories) is a new program designed to enhance U.S. competitiveness and address societal challenges through automated, scalable and reproducible research (i.e., “Self-Driving Labs”). This Program involves creating a network of distributed, remotely accessible laboratory nodes—called PCL Nodes—that use AI-driven workflows for experiment design, execution, and analysis.
The PCL Test Bed will provide researchers, including those at smaller institutions and in industry, with access to advanced equipment. It will also help standardize best practices, improve data reproducibility, and train the next generation of scientists and engineers in autonomous research methods. The program will be driven by specific, well-defined scientific goals, initially in areas like materials science and biotechnology. These science drivers will guide the development of protocols and facilitate collaboration across the network of labs.
PCL Nodes are expected to develop and implement plans for continued operation after the period of this award.
PI – An individual may serve as PI, Co-PI or Sr. Personnel on only ONE proposal.
Expected Funding: 4-6 awards at $5M per award/year; up to 4 years ($20M per award)
ERIK’s Research Development Team will offer an information session on Thursday, Aug 14, 2025, from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM for teams interested in learning more about this program with the goal of facilitating a follow-on call for ideas for teams interested in submitting a proposal.
Register here: https://osu.zoom.us/meeting/register/lCvkykkMSUyQ5k_HLR84kg
Contact: Kate Hayes-Ozello-Research Development Specialist; Stephanie Buehler-Research Development Specialist, Kripa Padmanabhan-Research Development Coordinator.