About the call

Submit Proposal
Review Frequency:none
Next Submission Deadline:March 31, 2026
Next Review Date:April 2026

The joint Critical Minerals and Materials call represents a unique opportunity for researchers to request the capabilities and expertise of both the Joint Genome Institute and the Molecular Foundry in one research proposal. The program seeks research proposals that integrate genomics with nanoscale science, accelerating discoveries and developing transformative bio-based technologies that address challenges in the sourcing, recovery, and utilization of critical minerals and materials.

For accepted proposals, sequencing, synthesis, metabolomics and analysis will be provided for free to the PI by the Department of Energy’s funding of the JGI. There is no cost to the user and no granting of funds.

All JGI data is made publicly available in accordance with the JGI’s Data Policy. In cases where the JGI provides customized analysis, the JGI also participates in publication of results.

Go here for a video and Q&A with more information about the call.

 

FY26 Call [CLOSED]

Click for a downloadable pdf with detail about this year's call.

View a downloadable pdf

Additional Resources

DOE Mission Areas
All accepted proposals must serve the Department of Energy Mission Areas. Click for details on its initiatives supported by the DOE and JGI research.
Proposal FAQ
Click for examples of successful proposal submissions and letters of intent, as well as a list of frequently asked questions about submitting a proposal to the JGI
Offerings & Capabilities
Through high-throughput platforms, expert domain knowledge and integrative solutions the JGI offers our investigators unique strategies suited to a vast array of niche research specialities. Click for more details and a list of product offerings.
Data Policy
Data produced and released through the call will adhere to the JGI Data Policy. For sequencing or metabolomics projects, data are subject to a one-year embargo, while for DNA synthesis projects, data are subject to a two-year embargo starting at construct or strain delivery.

Who to Contact

For general questions, please reach out to Christa Pennacchio, Project Management Office. Direct any questions about the proposal call to JGI Biomolecular Materials Initiative Lead Crysten Blaby-Haas. For questions about the appropriateness of projects or experimental design, click below to schedule time with Tanja Woyke, Deputy for User Programs.