Two new calls to support previous Expertise Networks and Principle Investigators in space-based research

The Netherlands Space Office (NSO) has announced two new calls targeting proposals for extending Expertise Networks and supporting Principal Investigators.

1. Call for expertise networks

The first new call for proposals targeting the support of existing Expertise Networks has been opened: ‘Strengthening knowledge cooperation in space research‘. This programme aims to support Expertise Networks whose initial project grant has expired to continue their activities and update their composition, through grants for joint research projects at low Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) and for network support activities. As the Expertise Network on Planetary Habitability has just started it is not eligible, but previous expertise networks can apply. The deadline for submitting applications is 19 June 2025, 14:00 h CEST. 

2. Principle Investigator support

A second call for proposals to support Principal Investigators has been opened: ‘Principal Investigator support‘. This programme aims to support researchers in the Netherlands with a PI role for a space mission, experiment or instrument to better fulfil that role and to make the Dutch scientific field benefit more from existing Dutch PI positions. To be eligible for funding, you must first submit a letter of intent. The deadline for submitting a letter of intent is May 20, 2025, at 14:00 CEST. The deadline for submitting a full application is 3 July 2025, 14:00 CEST. 

More info

Both calls fall under the programme ‘Partnerships for Space Instruments & Applications Preparatory Programme’ (PIPP). The PIPP is part of Dutch space policy. Strengthening the Netherlands’ international position in the development and use of space instruments, which is the focus of this Call for proposals, is a priority of this policy. All information related to these two calls is available at the aforementioned links to the website of the Netherlands Space Office (NSO). NSO is responsible for the implementation of these programmes, which are financed by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, under the responsibility of the NWO Domain Science.

Image: H.P. Föllmi | Credits: Agentschap NL