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Zoom
The National Science Foundation (NSF) PCL, Test Bed (Programmable Cloud Laboratories) is a new initiative and the purpose of this program is to enhance US 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 and opportunity with the goal of facilitating a follow-on call for ideas for teams interested in submitting a proposal for this program.
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.