The Foundation's Science Program is firmly based on the belief that scientific advances and the improvement of the human condition are closely linked. We are committed to supporting science projects that better our quality of life, including those that develop new ways to preserve the planet and strengthen scientific work in other countries. Grants are awarded to support university- based basic research, to create platforms for greater cooperation among scientists to engage in interdisciplinary research, to develop science leaders for our future, to understand the world's oceans, and to improve science education at all levels.

Scientific and technical advances depend on solid and widely accessible science education and diverse thinking, perspectives, and approaches. To this end, the Foundation supports science education, especially for those who have been underrepresented in the scientific workforce. We award grants to historically black colleges and universities, tribal colleges, and selected graduates from these institutions to encourage participation in science and engineering.

Approximately 85% of Science Program grants are awarded in response to invitations for proposals.

Initiated in 1998, the Interdisciplinary Science Program is intended to assist scientists who see a need for an interdisciplinary approach to answer questions or solve problems in any area of natural science or engineering. The program builds on the conviction that new alignments of disciplines are needed to attack many important problems in research. Each year, the Foundation invites proposals from a selected list of 50 universities, colleges, and research institutions, and awards grants totaling $10 million. The program is guided by an Interdisciplinary Science Advisory Panel of distinguished scientists.

inquiries@ packfound.org <inquiries@ packfound.org >