User Proposal Samples and Tips for Writing a Successful Proposal
Tips for Writing a Successful Proposal
Contact CNM Prior to Proposal Submission
- Use the CNM Scientific Contacts List or contact the CNM User Office to find staff suitable for your proposed experiments
- Get feedback on the scope and feasibility of your project
- Make sure you have reasonable estimates/requests for tool usage questions
- Ensure you have requested the correct tools for your experiments or obtain suggestions for other experiments/tools that could aid in the proposed research
- Check out the Proposal Review Process and Evaluation Criteria
Features of a Successful Proposal
- Defines work that can be completed in the span of the proposal timeframe of one year
- Provides justification for the tools requested (why the CNM facilities are required)
- Supplies background information on the importance of the proposed work and the impact on nanoscience
- Explains how the proposed work will generate impactful results and advance the scientific/technological field
- Expands upon prior CNM proposals. Demonstrate that you have an industrious research record and have the experience to be productive with CNM resources
When Writing the Proposal
- Propose a single, targeted hypothesis
- Be specific, provide details on your plan and timeline. Explain what you plan to do and why.
- Include references to show what has been done and what is being done in your field
- Explain the importance of your project
- If providing attachments, remember they are pdf-only and are only for supplementary information such as nanofabrication process flow charts, figures, etc.
Sample Proposals
CNM user proposal sample (non-theory)