ND-LEEF Grants
The Notre Dame Linked Experimental Ecosystem Facility (ND-LEEF) research grants serve as a mechanism for graduate and postdoctoral students to test novel ideas using the facility.
We welcome proposals for both aquatic and terrestrial research from graduate students and postdocs that effectively and creatively use the facilities at ND-LEEF. A list and description of the research facilities at ND-LEEF can be found here.
We encourage all new research that expands the use of ND-LEEF, but please note that as part of our cooperative agreement with St. Joseph County Parks (SJCP), invasive species cannot be introduced to ND-LEEF, and experiments must not result in the discharge of any harmful pollutants from the ND-LEEF site.
ELIGIBILITY
The following categories are eligible to apply for this program:
- ND Graduate Students
- ND Postdoctoral Researchers
AWARDS
Waived ND-LEEF User Fees (up to $7,000 value). Covers ND-LEEF user fees for facility access and infrastructure. Does not cover personnel, equipment, travel, or lab analyses.
This funding represents significant in-kind support, which can be listed as a competitive internal research grant on your CV.
DEADLINE
The deadline for proposals is 5:00 PM on Monday, April 13, 2026. Please submit proposals to Brett Peters at bpeters2@nd.edu.
GRANT PERIOD
Projects should start in spring 2026 and no later than September 1, 2026. We will prioritize strong proposals that show potential to deliver high impact results within the one-year funding period. The funding duration is one year.
PROPOSAL FORMAT AND SUBMISSION
Please describe your proposed research in <3 pages using the headings and order below:
- Title, lead investigator and other investigators (all with departmental affiliation in parentheses)
- Goal and/or research questions to be addressed
- Importance of topic
- Approach and methods
- A timeline of activities and deliverables
ACCEPTANCE CONDITIONS
As part of ND-ECI and ND-LEEF’s commitment to outreach, each grant recipient will be expected to participate in Science Sunday and/or other outreach activities as requested.
PREVIOUS AWARDEES
NEED MORE INFORMATION?
For more information on ND-LEEF grants, please contact Brett Peters.