Ongoing support for researchers will be essential to the creation of the next generation of technologies. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has made a significant commitment to supporting fast-growing young scientists in the United States to help keep America at the forefront of scientific research.

DOE’s 2026 Early Career Research Program (ECRP) will fund 67 early-career researchers in 26 states with $96 million to conduct high-impact research in critical areas such as quantum computing, fusion energy, and Super Intelligence (SI).

Photo: (C)Korn V. from Quality Stock Arts

Fueling Academic And National Lab Research

Researchers will be conducting research in both national labs and universities. The 67 researchers hail from 39 universities, 11 DOE National Laboratories, and Office of Science User Facilities. These funds will provide researchers with a solid financial base during a critical point in their scientific careers.

Award amounts are tailored based on the researcher’s home institution. Scientists at higher education institutions will receive approximately $875,000 over five years, while researchers working directly at DOE National Laboratories or Office of Science User Facilities will receive approximately $2,750,000 over five years.

Advertisement

“Groundbreaking science begins with empowering extraordinary people,” said DOE Under Secretary for Science Dr. Darío Gil. “These 67 early career researchers represent the very best of American ingenuity. DOE is proud to invest in their vision as they push the boundaries of knowledge and cement U.S. leadership in the technologies that will define our century.”

A Longstanding Pipeline For STEM Leadership

Since its establishment in 2010, the Early Career Research Program has issued 1,238 total awards, including 797 to university faculty and 441 to national lab scientists.

By taking away financial barriers for new projects, this initiative helps bright ideas in quantum computing, clean energy, and advanced artificial intelligence move from early experiments to real-world technologies that help keep the U.S. competitive.