John Templeton Foundation and The University of Chicago: New Frontiers in Astronomy and Cosmology – Pre-application

Short on-line pre-application is requested. An International Grant Competition aims to advance fundamental scientific understanding in areas of astronomy and cosmology that engage Big Questions through supporting innovative scientific research. The program is particularly intended to foster research that, because of its non-mainstream nature or breadth of questions asked, would not usually be funded by conventional funding sources. This program is not for research that could be considered mainstream, as described in the Research Grant RFP.
Big Questions:
1. What was the earliest state of the universe?
2. Is our observable universe unique or is it part of a much larger multiverse?
3. What is the origin of the complexity in the universe?
4. Are we alone in the universe? Or, are there other life and intelligence beyond the solar system?
Funding: 2-year grants of up to $300K for theoretical work; for experimental research, 2-year grants of up to $500K. About 15 awards are anticipated.
http://www.newfrontiersinastronomy.org/research-grant-program.html