Background and Motivation

Many lab experiments (e.g., Jahn and Dunne) have demonstrated that human intention can have small effects on the output of quantum random number generators (REGs). A hypothesis why the effect is small is that the bored undergraduate sitting in front of a computer screen has little at stake in seeing whether the number displayed is 102 or 98. It is easy to imagine experiments in which there are life-changing stakes for the “operator” of the REG, but such experiments would not pass muster with an IRB.

In recent years, Monica Gagliano has reported experiments demonstrating sensation, signal processing, memory, and learning in plants. It is not considered unethical to torture a plant. Indeed, as a vegetarian, I dismember plants daily for purely culinary purposes.

Experimental Procedure

Place a plant in a dark room. Water as appropriate. Program a computer connection between an REG and a Gro-Light such that the light is on only when the pattern of REG output matches some random template with accuracy that is expected only x% of the time. Track the REG output and see if the light is in fact turned on more than x% of the time.

Variations:
●    Vary x, the statistical threshold for turning the light on.
●    Let the intensity of the light vary continuously in response to the REG (instead of binary on/off)
●    Use the REG to control water flow rather than light
●    Manufacture kits that can be distributed to hobbyists who can replicate this experiment in a closet in their own home. (IONS is discussing a project on this basis.)

Funding Details

Grants are intended to support high‑leverage studies that can produce decisive data with modest resources. There is no pre-determined limits on budgets, rather all proposals will be considered on their merits relative to scope and feasibility. However, priority will be given to proposals that demonstrate: 

• Clear experimental design
• Strong controls and falsifiability
• Potential for replication
• High signal‑to‑noise payoff
• Courageous but disciplined inquiry

How to Apply

Applicants should submit a detailed proposal including 

• Project title and research track
• Researcher CV
• One research paper you have recently written
  
• Background and rationale
• Experimental design and methods
• Budget and timeline
• Expected outcomes and potential implications

Proposals will be reviewed by Josh Mitteldorf. Simply email your materials to: aging.advice@gmail.com

A Call to the Frontier

These grants are designed for investigators who feel the pull of unexplored territory—those who believe that science advances not only by refining what is known, but by venturing into what is not yet understood. If you have a bold idea, a careful design, and the willingness to test the improbable with rigor, Dr. Mitteldorf invites you to apply.

Disclaimer

The Society for Scientific Exploration (SSE) is providing this announcement solely for informational purposes. SSE does not participate in the review, selection, funding decisions, or administration of these grants. All aspects of the grant process, including proposal evaluation and award distribution, are managed exclusively by the sponsoring individual.

Applicants should direct all questions and submissions to Dr. Mitteldorf at aging.advice@gmail.com.