Developmental Sciences (DS)

The Developmental Sciences program supports basic research that increases our understanding of perceptual, cognitive, linguistic, social, cultural, and biological processes related to human development across the lifespan. The program funds research that addresses developmental processes within various domains, including perceptual, cognitive, social, emotional, language, and motor development, and investigates factors that affect developmental change. The program also considers proposals for workshops and small conferences on a case-by-case basis. • The program supports research that incorporates multidisciplinary, multi-method, and/or longitudinal approaches. • The program develops new methods, models, and theories for studying development. • The program integrates different processes, levels of analysis, and time scales. • The program funds basic research that advances our understanding of developmental processes and mechanisms. • The program does not fund clinical trials and research focused primarily on health outcomes.