What are the two main criteria the National Science Foundation (NSF) uses to evaluate grant proposals?

The correct criteria used by the National Science Foundation (NSF) to evaluate grant proposals are intellectual merit and broader impacts. Intellectual merit refers to the potential of the proposed research to advance knowledge in the field. This includes the originality of the project, the qualifications of the researchers, and the soundness of the proposed methodology. Broader impacts consider the potential benefits of the research to society at large, including how it may contribute to education, public understanding of science, or other societal outcomes.

These criteria reflect the NSF's commitment not only to advancing scientific knowledge but also to ensuring that this knowledge benefits society as a whole. The evaluation process thus encourages researchers to think about the societal implications of their work and to integrate efforts to broaden participation in science and engineering as part of their proposals. This dual focus helps ensure that funding supports projects that are both academically rigorous and socially relevant.