The IAU Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) has released its ‘2022 Call for Proposals’ for projects that aim to use astronomy to make an impact on sustainable development.
The IAU Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) is seeking proposals for projects that will use astronomy to impact sustainable development.
The mission of the OAD is to further the use of astronomy, including its practitioners, skills and infrastructures, as a tool for sustainable development globally. The call for proposals, open to anyone from anywhere in the world (regardless of background in astronomy), is conducted in two stages.
Stage 1 and 2
In Stage 1, open until May 31, proposers are asked to submit a brief application on their project idea which will be scored by an independent panel of reviewers based on defined criteria. Selected proposals will be invited to submit a more comprehensive Stage 2 application.
During Stage 2, teams will work closely with the OAD, its Regional Offices where applicable, and other experts, who will provide feedback to improve the application. Based on these engagements, proposers may modify their Stage 2 application and submit by September 15.
The revised Stage 2 applications will be scored by the reviewers who will make recommendations on projects to be funded. After final approval from the OAD Steering Committee, applicants will be notified of the results.
Projects’ implementation
Projects selected through this call will be implemented in 2023. Given that the COVID-19 global pandemic may continue to have an impact, project proposers are asked to consider creative strategies for implementation and build in mitigation plans.
The call includes Themes identified by the OAD based on the experience of previous projects, input from Regional Offices, and issues of current relevance.
BSSD, theme in proposals’ call
A new theme included in this call is ‘Basic Sciences for Sustainable Development’, in view of the United Nations resolution recognizing 2022 as the International Year of Basic Sciences for Sustainable Development (IYBSSD).
Since basic sciences such as physics, chemistry, and mathematics are an essential part of astronomy, the OAD invites proposals for projects that use any field(s) of basic science(s) in the pursuit of one or more of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Any applicants who lack training or experience in writing proposals can request Proposal Writing support from the OAD. Applicants will be matched up with an astronomer or other expert who will guide and advise the applicant on the proposal structure and language.
This form of support is not meant to help the applicant improve their proposal concept but only to communicate it better.
More information and application form: http://www.astro4dev.
For any queries email projects@astro4dev.org
