NSF Mathematical Sciences Postdoctoral Fellowships (MSPRF) 2025: Fully Funded Research Opportunities for Early-Career Mathematicians.
Are you a recent Ph.D. graduate or early-career mathematician looking to elevate your research career? The NSF Mathematical Sciences Postdoctoral Research Fellowships (MSPRF) 2025 program is a prestigious, fully-funded opportunity designed to support postdoctoral research in mathematics and statistics. Backed by the National Science Foundation (NSF), this fellowship empowers early-career researchers to work under expert mentors, conduct independent studies, and develop leadership in the field.
Recognized globally, MSPRF offers unparalleled research exposure, academic collaboration, and funding support. Whether you are aiming to enhance your academic credentials or break into elite research environments, this program is tailored for individuals driven by innovation, rigor, and excellence.
About the Fellowship/Scholarship Program
The Mathematical Sciences Postdoctoral Research Fellowships (MSPRF), administered by NSF’s Division of Mathematical Sciences (DMS), promote the development of future leaders in the mathematical sciences. The program offers early-career researchers the flexibility to carry out innovative research in an enriching academic environment.
Program Name:
Mathematical Sciences Postdoctoral Research Fellowships (MSPRF)
Current Status:
Active and accepting applications for the 2025 cycle
Scope & Objectives:
- Encourage early-career independence in mathematical research
- Enhance scientific training under a host institution
- Support integration of mathematics into interdisciplinary research
Program Duration:
Up to 2 years, depending on the type of award
Study Mode:
Full-time, based at a U.S.-based host institution
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements to be considered for the MSPRF 2025 cycle:
Academic Requirements:
- Must hold or expect to receive a doctoral degree in mathematics or statistics by the fellowship start date
- Ph.D. must have been awarded no more than 24 months before the application deadline
Work Experience:
- No prior postdoctoral fellowships from NSF are allowed under this program
Age Limit:
- No formal age limit is specified
Nationality:
- Open only to U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents
Language Proficiency:
- No standardized language tests required; however, professional communication skills are expected
Additional Requirements:
- Must have secured a host institution and sponsor/mentor who agrees to support the research plan
Application Process
Follow this step-by-step guide to apply for the MSPRF 2025:
- Read Program Guidelines
Visit the NSF MSPRF official page and carefully read the latest program announcement. - Register on Research.gov
Create an account on Research.gov—the official portal to submit your proposal. - Prepare Documents
Begin drafting your research and training plan, securing recommendations, and confirming institutional support. - Submit Proposal
Upload all application materials before the October 2025 deadline through Research.gov.
Required Documents
Here are the key documents you’ll need for a successful application:
- Research Plan: A 5-page detailed proposal outlining your research goals, methodology, and expected contributions.
- Training Plan: A description of professional development goals and mentorship benefits from the host institution.
- Recommendation Letters: Usually three strong letters from academic or research advisors.
- Host Institution Support Letter: Official endorsement from the sponsor at the proposed institution.
- Transcripts: Proof of academic performance from graduate-level coursework.
- CV: A well-structured resume highlighting academic achievements, research experience, and publications.
Focus Areas / Fields of Study
The MSPRF supports research in a wide range of mathematical disciplines, including:
- Pure Mathematics
- Applied Mathematics
- Computational Mathematics
- Probability and Statistics
- Mathematical Physics
- Mathematical Biology
- Interdisciplinary Mathematical Applications (e.g., economics, data science)
Financial Benefits
Fellows receive a generous funding package, designed to support both research activities and personal development.
Monthly Stipend:
- Competitive salary for the fellowship duration (amount based on NSF rates and host institution guidelines)
Research Funding:
- Annual research allowance for materials, travel, and conference attendance
Relocation Allowance:
- Coverage for relocation expenses to the host institution
Additional Benefits:
- Access to health insurance, fringe benefits, and academic resources at the host institution
Selection Process
Applications undergo a rigorous merit-based review:
- Initial Screening:
- NSF checks for eligibility and completeness of applications
- Peer Review:
- Expert panels evaluate proposals based on intellectual merit and broader impacts
- Panel Recommendations:
- Top candidates are identified based on research quality, innovation, and training potential
- Final Selection:
- NSF makes final award decisions; applicants are notified by March 2026
Key Dates (Tentative for 2025 Cycle)
- Call for Applications Opens: August 2025
- Proposal Deadline: October 2025
- Review Process: November 2025 – February 2026
- Final Decisions Announced: March 2026
- Fellowship Start Date: Between June and September 2026
Stay updated via the NSF MSPRF Page.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Tailor Your Research Plan: Clearly articulate your research goals, methods, and expected outcomes. Show relevance to national or global mathematical problems.
- Choose a Compatible Mentor: Select a host institution where your sponsor’s expertise aligns closely with your research interests.
- Craft a Purposeful Training Plan: Detail how you’ll expand your skills, network, and academic independence.
- Polish Your CV: Focus on research, teaching, awards, and publications relevant to mathematical sciences.
- Request Strong Recommendations: Reach out early and provide your referees with background materials.
Contact Information
For inquiries, you can reach out to any of the following NSF program coordinators:
Name | Phone Number | |
Stefaan G. De Winter | sgdewint@nsf.gov | (703) 292-2599 |
Eriko Hironaka | ehironak@nsf.gov | (703) 292-7041 |
Wing Suet Li | winli@nsf.gov | (703) 292-4630 |
Hailiang Liu | hliu@nsf.gov | (703) 292-2436 |
Conclusion
The NSF MSPRF 2025 is more than a fellowship—it’s an investment in your future as a leader in the mathematical sciences. This fully-funded opportunity enables promising researchers to gain independence, expand their scholarly impact, and collaborate across institutions.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of a globally respected program that nurtures innovation, diversity, and excellence.
Quick Summary Table
Feature | Details |
Program Name | Mathematical Sciences Postdoctoral Research Fellowships (MSPRF) |
Host Country / Region | |
Funded By | National Science Foundation (NSF) |
Eligibility | U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents; recent Ph.D. holders |
Financial Support | Monthly stipend, research allowance, relocation, fringe benefits |
Fields of Study | Mathematics, Statistics, Interdisciplinary Applications |
Application Deadline | October 2025 (Exact date to be announced) |
Official Website |
FAQs
MSPRF is a program by the National Science Foundation supporting postdoctoral research in mathematical sciences.
U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents with a recent Ph.D. in mathematical sciences are eligible.
Submit your application through Research.gov, following the guidelines on the NSF MSPRF program page
The application deadline is typically in October; check the NSF website for the exact date.
The fellowship offers a stipend, research allowance, and fringe benefits.
No, only U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents are eligible to apply.
The fellowship supports research in all areas of mathematical sciences, including pure and applied mathematics, statistics, and computational mathematics.
Applications are evaluated based on the quality of the research and training plans, and the applicant’s potential for significant contributions to the field.
