Cooperative Agreement for CESU-affiliated Partner with Rocky Mountain Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit | G22AS00191

Opportunity Information: Apply for G22AS00191

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), through its Powell Center, announced a discretionary funding opportunity to support research focused on improving how wildlife genetic and genomic information is handled and used for conservation and management. The project theme is "Standardizing, aggregating, analyzing and disseminating global wildlife genetic and genomic data for improved management and advancement of community best practices." In practical terms, the work is designed to make large amounts of existing genetic information more consistent, easier to combine across studies, and more accessible for decision-making, while also helping set stronger community standards for how these data are curated and shared.

A central deliverable is the creation of a global genetic database that compiles roughly 150 datasets along with their associated metadata. This emphasis on metadata matters because it captures the context needed to interpret genetic results correctly, such as where and when samples were collected, what markers or sequencing approaches were used, and other study design details that influence comparability. By bringing these datasets into a standardized structure, the project aims to reduce fragmentation in the field and make it possible to conduct broader analyses that single studies cannot typically support.

Beyond aggregation, the opportunity calls for analytical work that links genetic and genomic patterns to major environmental and human-related drivers. Specifically, researchers are expected to examine how measured genetic diversity correlates with historical climatic stability, species richness, and anthropogenic factors. The intent is to improve understanding of how genetic diversity is distributed across space and environmental gradients, and to develop forecasting approaches that can identify regions or populations likely to harbor high genetic diversity. Those forecasts can be especially valuable in places with limited sampling, where managers still need to prioritize monitoring, protection, or mitigation actions.

Another key outcome is the production of spatiotemporal maps showing measured genetic diversity across species, with an emphasis on usefulness to conservation planning and environmental impact assessment. These mapped products are intended for natural resource managers who need defensible, spatially explicit information to support planning decisions, evaluate potential project impacts, and identify areas where genetic diversity may be especially important for resilience and long-term persistence.

The award is issued as a cooperative agreement, meaning USGS anticipates substantial involvement during the project rather than a more hands-off grant relationship. The funding instrument sits within the Science and Technology and other Research and Development activity category, and it is offered under the Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU) framework. CESUs are partnership networks designed to connect federal agencies with universities and other partners to provide research, technical assistance, and educational support. Eligibility is limited to organizations that are participating partners in the Rocky Mountain Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit Program, reflecting the CESU model where funding opportunities are directed to members of that established partnership.

Administrative details from the notice include the opportunity number G22AS00191, the CFDA listing 15.808, an award ceiling of $100,000, and an original closing date of March 2, 2022. The opportunity was created on February 2, 2022, and is administered by the U.S. Geological Survey.

• The Geological Survey in the science and technology and other research and development sector is offering a public funding opportunity titled "Cooperative Agreement for CESU-affiliated Partner with Rocky Mountain Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit" and is now available to receive applicants.
• Interested and eligible applicants and submit their applications by referencing the CFDA number(s): 15.808.
• This funding opportunity was created on 2022-02-02.
• Applicants must submit their applications by 2022-03-02. (Agency may still review applications by suitable applicants for the remaining/unused allocated funding in 2026.)
• Each selected applicant is eligible to receive up to $100,000.00 in funding.
• Eligible applicants include: Others.

Apply for G22AS00191

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