Funding-Limited Submission - USDA – Forest Products Research Program; July 9, 2013

The Forest Products Research Grants Program provides creative and innovative science and technology and advanced business practices that enhance the domestic and global competitiveness of the U.S. wood products industry. Specifically, it addresses utilization needs of hardwood and conifer forest resources. Because of the limited amount of funding, this year’s offering focuses on creating new and improved wood uses and value-added products. Applications are being solicited for the FY 2013 appropriation under the following special areas:

1. Innovative solutions to develop new industries/technologies that can optimally process/utilize large quantities of pest-damaged or -killed trees;
2. Developing grade and size models for conifers;
3. Promoting use of low value hardwoods for prime bio-products/value-added utilization of underutilized hardwoods;
4. Developing structural composites, such as, Cross Laminated Timbers (CLT) and others using softwoods;
5. Thermal modification of hardwood and softwood lumber; and
6. Adhesion mechanics in wood and wood composites.

This fiscal year, the Forest Products Research program expects to fund at least four standard research projects for not more than $300,000 each over a maximum period of three years.

Limited Submission: An institution can submit a maximum of two applications.

See the complete program announcement for additional details and requirements:  http://www.nifa.usda.gov/fo/forestproductresearch.cfm

Because the Department of Agriculture only allows an organization to submit two applications, the University of Kentucky has established an internal selection process.  Individuals interested in submitting to this program are to submit the following materials electronically to the Office of the Vice President for Research at limitedsubmissions@uky.edu and a copy to their Associate Dean for Research by Tuesday, July 9, 2013:

• Names and departments of the UK Project Director and key personnel (evaluator and technology specialist)
• A short description (2 pages maximum) of the proposed project.

A committee will be appointed to review the information and make a recommendation.  Questions about the submission process may be sent to Ms. Annette Evans in the Office of the Vice President for Research (alevan4@email.uky.edu or 257-1663).

The USDA deadline is July 31, 2013.