The Dynamics of Coupled Natural and Human Systems (CNH) is a multidirectorate program jointly operated by three NSF directorates (Biological Sciences; Geosciences; and Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences). In addition to those three directorates, other NSF units (including the Directorate for Engineering, the Directorate for Education and Human Resources, the Office of International Science and Engineering, and the Office of Polar Programs) participate in evaluation of proposals. Starting in FY 2008, the Forest Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will participate as a partner in the conduct of annual CNH competitions. CNH is a direct successor of a special competition that was part of the Biocomplexity in the Environment emphasis area.
CNH focuses on the complex interactions among human and natural systems at diverse spatial, temporal, and organizational scales. CNH seeks to advance basic knowledge about the system dynamics -- the processes through which systems function and interact with other systems. CNH-supported projects must examine relevant natural AND human systems. Proposals cannot focus solely or largely on either human systems or on natural systems.
