Seeking synthesis, experimental and theory investigators to advance the frontiers of quantum materials science

Quantum materials are revealing how collective quantum effects such as entanglement, topology and strong electronic interactions can give rise to entirely new forms of matter and emergent behavior. Exploring these emergent phenomena is crucial for deepening our understanding of nature and securing the future of quantum science and technology. 

In 2026, we will launch three investigator calls to advance the aims of the Emergent Phenomena in Quantum Systems Initiative. We seek to provide exceptional scientists with the freedom and resources to pursue ambitious, high-risk and highly novel research directions. Selected investigators will be awarded six-year research grants, with award sizes ranging from about $800,000 to about $1.8 million. 

Application process and timeline 

The competition will proceed through three staggered calls for proposals in 2026. Eligibility requirements will be announced with each call  

• Late February — Materials Synthesis Investigators and Moore Synthesis Fellows 

• Researchers who create and engineer quantum materials and hybrid structures hosting novel emergent quantum phenomena. The Synthesis Fellows awards are aimed at early-career researchers.  

• May — Experimental Investigators 

• Researchers who develop novel experimental tools and carry out advanced experiments to characterize and reveal emergent quantum behavior in materials. 

• August — Theory Investigators 

• Researchers who develop concepts, mathematical models, and computational tools that elucidate and predict emergent phenomena in quantum materials. 

Investigator award eligibility 

We seek a cohort of investigators representing a broad range of scientific backgrounds and perspectives, enriching the diversity of tools, ideas and approaches brought to outstanding challenges in quantum materials and the creation of novel materials systems. Tenured, tenure-track and research faculty at any career stage are eligible, provided their primary appointment is at a U.S. academic institution. There is no limit on the number of applications from a single institution. Past and current Moore Foundation grantees are eligible to apply. In 2026, the Experimental Physics Investigators and Emergent Phenomena in Quantum Systems Initiatives will both run investigator competitions. Applicants eligible for both programs may apply to only one. Please review carefully the eligibility criteria and scientific scope of each initiative before deciding which one to apply to.  

We value diversity and strongly encourage applications from individuals of all ages, sexes, sexual orientations, gender identities, races, national origins, religions and abilities. 

Selection criteria and review process 

Investigator awards are extremely competitive. We seek researchers who not only conduct outstanding science but have the potential to reshape the field through new conceptual frameworks, innovative tools and techniques and cross-disciplinary insights. Ideal candidates embrace risk, confront extreme technical challenges and aim to change how the field thinks and operates — rather than simply extending established lines of research. 

Full applications will undergo rigorous expert review by leading scientists in the field. Selection will be based primarily on: 

• The quality and impact of recent research, published within the past five to seven years 

• The potential for disruptive contributions over the next six years, as articulated in the research proposal 

Scientific and technical scope 

The initiative is interested in a broad range of quantum materials systems, including: 

• Strongly correlated materials.

• Frustrated magnets and other solids exhibiting exotic magnetic behavior. 

• Materials exhibiting topological order. 

• Two-dimensional crystals, van der Waals structures and other low-dimensional systems. 

• Hybrid quantum materials created through the integration of dissimilar components or via external stimuli such as light or strain. 

All experimental, synthesis and theoretical approaches will be considered. The Initiative is primarily focused on advancing fundamental understanding of emergent phenomena in quantum materials. Proposals emphasizing devices or near-term technological applications will receive low priority. 

While the current phase of the initiative emphasizes four specific research thrusts, investigators are free to propose and pursue research directions outside these thrusts. 

For more information, visit our initiative page on moore.org.