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Without current funding? Apply to be an Affiliate
The SETI Institute’s Affiliates program provides an opportunity for qualified researchers interested in supporting our science mission, to submit proposals through the SETI Institute to government funding agencies, private foundations, and private partners. The program is designed for researchers who wish to further their future research as a member of the SETI Institute. After successful submission and selection of a research proposal, and once funding is available, Affiliates will be considered as potential employees at the Institute.
The SETI Institute can provide temporary workspace by request, at our Mountain View HQ for proposal preparation or pre-submittal consultation. Requests will be handled on a case-by-case basis.
Benefits of submitting a proposal as a SETI Institute Affiliate include:
- Visibility in the science community and Association with the SETI Institute, a world-class scientific research institute working in more than 24 natural science domains, distributed in 8 research divisions.
- Access to internal competitive funds to propose pilot projects to support your research.
- Assistance from the SETI Institute’s Grants Administration in reviewing, editing, and submitting your proposal, including the following:
- Proposal checklists/general guidance
- Budget preparation
- Proposal element templates
- Letters of endorsement
- Compliance reviews
- Editorial and technical reviews if internal deadlines are met
- Final proposal submission to funder
- Access to a scientific network of researchers including world leaders in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Astrobiology, Climate Bio-Geosciences, Data Science, Exoplanets, Heliophysics, Planetary Exploration and SETI.
- Access to the resources and expertise of the Center for Education when requiring an education/engagement component to science proposals.
- Access to the SETI Institute Communications resources for publication of press releases and social media.
- To maintain affiliation, affiliates must submit at least one grant proposal within the first 18 months of joining as an affiliate, as a Project Lead, or as a Co-Investigator. Affiliation will automatically expire at the end of the term period (i.e. after 18 months) in the absence of any proposal submittal.
How do I become an Affiliate?
Submit the application (link below) for review. Scientists and engineers working in the field of astrophysics, astrobiology, planetary science, heliophysics, space instruments, SETI, or in the field of STEM education research, may become Affiliates, and submit proposals.
Note that affiliation with the SETI Institute does not guarantee employment. As an affiliate, you cannot use the term as your title in your correspondence or in your publications. The term “Affiliate” is only a means for you to write proposals through the SETI Institute. You will remain an affiliate and continue to write proposals through us until your proposals are selected. Once you have secured funding, you will be considered as a potential employee.
What kind of proposal support is provided?
To maximize your chances of receiving a grant, we constantly look for proposal opportunities, review their requirements, and alert you early in the application process. In addition, senior staff are available to review your proposals and offer advice to increase your chances of success.
What is your indirect cost rate?
When you are ready to submit a proposal, grants administration will provide you with indirect cost rate information.
If you have any further questions, please contact Arminé Saroian, Director of Human Resources.
