This year the UPP is offering one seed grant to a team of researchers interested in pursuing an innovative research project that is aligned with the mission, priority, and goals of the USGS. Teams will include at least one primary investigator (PI) from ORWSC and one PI from PSU. Special consideration will be given to proposals that increase the participation of PIs and students from groups identified by the NSF as underrepresented in STEM; include research positions or experiences for multiple students; and facilitate new working relationships between researchers. UPP Seed Grants are intended to establish or enhance beneficial connections between ORWSC and PSU researchers that will grow into long-term research with external funding. See the 2025 UPP Seed Grant Request for Proposals for a complete overview of the grant and guidelines for submission.