Psi-k is a worldwide network of researchers working on the advancement of first-principles computational materials science. Its mission is to develop fundamental theory, algorithms, and computer codes in order to understand, predict, and design materials properties and functions. Key activities of Psi-k are the organization of conferences, workshops, tutorials and training schools as well as the dissemination of scientific thinking in society [Excerpt from the mission statement at http://psi-k.net/ ].
Psi-k typically funds schools (1-2 weeks), workshops (2-3 days), international conferences (2-5 days), and codes/methods tutorials (3 days-1 week), with a focus on electronic-structure methods, developments, and applications. Funding is of the order of 4,000/8,000/12,000 €, depending on size and duration (as a guideline, 30 €/expected participant/day); Psi-k funds around 25-35 activities for every call (see here http://psi-k.net/workshops/ for the 2021-22 activities).
While we continue to support traditional in-person activities, we also encourage a renewed focus on, attention to and ingenious development of novel models in research sharing, dissemination, teaching, and discussion – the freedom of our Charity allows us to consider less conventional proposals with funding devoted to digital or remote approaches.
We have a two-step application process to simplify and streamline applications, elicit more original proposals, improve planning, and avoid duplication of efforts. The present call for outline proposals is for events that will take place between 1 April 2022 and 31 March 2023.
Please note: events scheduled to take place in August and September 2022 will NOT be considered for funding to avoid a clash with the rescheduled Psi-k Conference that will take place in Lausanne, 22-25 August 2022.
Outline proposals should be submitted online by Monday 19 July 2021 (midnight UK time), describing the planned event (download a draft of the form to see a preview of the questions that you will be asked here). Psi-k Working Groups (http://psi-k.net/groups ) and Trustees (http://psi-k.net/admin/ ) will either approve this outline proposal for full submission, reject it, or suggest a merger between different activities – you are very welcome to contact the relevant Working Group leaders or members beforehand.
Feedback will be provided the week of Monday 20 September 2021. Outline proposals that have been approved or mergers that have been successfully negotiated will then be invited to submit a full proposal by Monday 18 October 2021. These proposals will then be evaluated and approved – with full or partial funding – or declined at the meeting of the Trustees, Scientific Advisory Committee (http://psi-k.net/scientific-advisory-committee/) and Working Group leaders on Friday 26 November 2021.
The evaluation of the outline proposals and full proposals will be based on
- the relevance to the Psi-k mission statement;
- the scientific quality of the proposal;
- the intellectual inclusivity, geographical spread and diversity of the proposed participants, including efforts to widen participation beyond established groups;
- the scientific merit, geographical spread and diversity of the organizers; and
- the appropriateness of budget
