Announcements

Federal Funding Update

The Division of Research’s webpage (research.umd.edu/federalupdates) contains information, FAQs, and leadership guidance. 

In the context of evolving Federal agency priorities, the Research Development office is available to assist faculty addressing questions from POs/agencies regarding the scientific or technical aspects of their research (e.g., queries related to proposals under review, awards, progress reports). Reach out directly for assistance (ckenned3@umd.edu).

NIH Notice of Short-Term Extension to Early-Stage Investigator (ESI) Eligibility Period
The NIH has granted the automatic extension of Early-Stage Investigator (ESI) eligibility to address delays impacting grant application submissions, peer review, or award processing timelines. See the notice for details. 

Events

NSF Division of Chemistry Early-Career Investigator Workshop (Virtual)

Date: June 6, 2025
Time: 11am-3pm
Description: For early-career faculty focused on proposal development for the NSF Faculty Early Career Development Program. Will include an overview of the NSF merit review process, mock panel review, an introduction to various NSF CHE programs and priorities, Q&A sessions, and opportunities to interact online with program officers and peers.
 

On The Horizon

The UMD Research Development Office, RD Capture Director, and Strategic Intelligence Analyst support our faculty by providing pre-competition intelligence with recommended actions and support.

Did You Know

Proactively engaging with new government program managers can significantly enhance your research visibility and funding opportunities. By presenting your technologies using a quad chart, you can effectively communicate your innovations and their potential impact. Schedule a time with Patrick M. Mendez, UMD’s Research Development Capture Director, to discuss your technology and identify potential federal customers who might align with your research interests. Let's collaborate to bring your research to the forefront!

New and Upcoming Programs

DARPA
Upcoming Proposers Day

• DARPA-SN-25-78: Rads To Watts Proposers Day 
  The Rads to Watts (R2W) program aims to develop direct energy conversion systems that transform nuclear radiation into electrical power, bypassing traditional fuel- or solar-based energy solutions. DARPA is seeking scalable, compact radiovoltaic systems that can operate in extreme environments and generate power at kilowatt levels from similarly intense radiation sources. Key technologies of interest include high-fluence-resilient charge-carrying materials, innovative radiovoltaic structures, and unit cells scalable into high-power arrays. The event will also include Lightning Talks, teaming opportunities, and one-on-one meetings with the Program Manager, Dr. Tabitha Dodson, offering a valuable venue for shaping the R2W program vision and forming interdisciplinary collaborations ahead of the anticipated solicitation release.
  Researchers in UMIACS, the Department of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE), IREAP, and ECE, particularly those exploring radiation-hardened semiconductors, energy harvesting, or advanced materials for extreme environments, are ideally positioned to contribute. Faculty affiliated with the Maryland Energy Innovation Institute and those working at the intersection of nuclear engineering and solid-state physics—especially in scalable power systems or compact sensors—may find this program of significant strategic interest. Interested researchers are encouraged to register by June 13, via the R2W Proposers Day registration site, and consider submitting a Lightning Talk or Teaming Profile to connect with potential collaborators.

Upcoming Programs

• DARPA-SN-25-77: CoasterChase 
  The CoasterChase program offers a groundbreaking exploration of gut-brain axis neuromodulation for enhancing performance and promoting long-term mental health resilience. This program aims to modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis by targeting the stimulation of enteric neurons, particularly those that produce neuropeptide Y (NPY), through an ingestible sensing and stimulation platform. By assessing cortisol and NPY dynamics under both acute and chronic stress, CoasterChase aims to deliver a dual breakthrough: a foundational understanding of enteric neuromodulation and a prototype device for closed-loop bioelectronic intervention. This effort builds on neurotechnology precedents such as ElectRx, HAPTIX, and N3, expanding DARPA’s neuromodulation research into the gastrointestinal system—an uncharted frontier in behavioral health and defense performance enhancement.
  Our interdisciplinary research teams span the BIOE, Department of Psychology, and the Neuroscience and Cognitive Science program. Faculty working on bioelectronic medicine, ingestible diagnostics, gut-brain signaling, or biomarker-based behavioral interventions are well-positioned to lead or support proposals for these areas. The MRC and IBBR could contribute to the miniaturization of ingestible devices, innovation in materials, and sensor design, while the BBI offers additional translational insights into stress and cognitive neuroscience. BTO PM Dr. Pedro Irazoqui has indicated that the CoasterChase industry day will be held in July. Investigators interested in defense applications of neuromodulation, stress biology, or wearable and ingestible diagnostics should monitor SAM.gov for the forthcoming industry day and consider early team formation.
• DARPA-SN-25-72: Advanced Disease Outbreak Simulation Capabilities
  This upcoming program seeks capabilities to model infectious disease outbreaks, focusing on novel, tunable, and scalable simulation platforms that incorporate real-time data and model biological transmission at multiple levels—from person-to-person to global dynamics. Key technical areas include spatial modeling, transmission rate dynamics (e.g., superspreading, demographic variation), immune status, viral evolution, and the modeling of diverse interventions (e.g., vaccines, quarantine, behavioral compliance). DARPA is especially interested in future-facing innovations such as machine learning for outbreak prediction, integration of biosensor data, and platforms that enable rapid scenario testing with user-friendly dashboards for non-specialist analysts. Respondents should also provide insights on platform architecture, scalability, and validation methodologies.
  UMD researchers working on computational epidemiology, public health analytics, agent-based modeling, and AI-enhanced simulation, particularly within the SPP’s Center for Global Sustainability, ISR, Applied Mathematics & Statistics, and Scientific Computation (AMSC), and the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics in SPH. Faculty working at the intersection of AI/ML and health data integration, such as those affiliated with UMIACS and MIDAS, could contribute significantly. BTO PM Dr. Rob Saperstein indicated that he is most interested in responses from academia, and startups; while this is not a funding opportunity per se, participation will influence a future BTO program. The deadline for responses is June 23, 2025, 4:00 PM ET.

New Program

• Ag x BTO Special Topic  
  The Ag x BTO Special Topic is designed to seed early-stage innovations in agricultural defense with the potential to evolve into future DARPA programs. Proposed solutions must address one of five technical focus areas: (1) high-resolution autonomous early warning systems for chemical/biological threats, (2) rapid-response countermeasures for crop/livestock protection, (3) massively accelerated crop engineering for long-term resilience, (4) integrated modeling and predictive analytics for pathogen impact and countermeasure success, or (5) novel attribution methods to detect and characterize human intervention in agricultural systems. The submission process involves a short video pitch, supported by supplemental slides and a submission form, which is evaluated under DARPA’s streamlined BRIDGES Lite rubric. This mechanism aims to lower barriers for bold, high-risk ideas with national security relevance in the food and agriculture domain.
  Researchers affiliated with AGNR, particularly those in the Departments of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture (PSLA) and Animal and Avian Sciences (ANSC), as well as synthetic biology and bioengineering researchers in BIOE, may find this opportunity of interest. Faculty engaged in computational biology and disease modeling in the CBCB, or those in the UMIACS working on AI-enabled threat prediction and modeling, are well-positioned to respond to this call. Additionally, members of the National Center for Food Safety and Technology and cybersecurity experts in the MC2 may contribute to provenance attribution and systems-level surveillance innovation.

Department of the Navy
Upcoming Industry Day

• N0001425SN0002: Office of Naval Research Industry Engagement Day
  The 2025 ONR Industry Engagement Day provides a unique classified forum for direct engagement with ONR leadership and technical directors across its major research directorates, including C5ISRT (Code 31), Ocean Battlespace Sensing (Code 32), Sea Warfare (Code 33), Warfighter Performance (Code 34), and Naval Air Warfare (Code 35). Attendees will gain early insight into ONR’s strategic S&T priorities and near-term transition goals, enabling deeper alignment of university and industry R&D with Navy/Marine Corps operational needs. The event includes panel discussions, capability gap overviews, and networking opportunities to inform participants of funding pathways, transition strategies, and future solicitations. Notably, ONR-Global, NavalX, and the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) office will participate, signaling broad engagement channels.
  Cleared faculty engaged in defense-related research and technology development, particularly in the School of Engineering (ECE, ISR, ME, and AE), START, ARLIS, and faculty conducting Advanced Manufacturing research, should strongly consider attending. The event provides strategic alignment opportunities for campus researchers working in areas such as C4ISR, naval autonomy, maritime sensing, cognitive performance, and human-systems integration. Attending ONR’s Industry Day will help us strengthen partnerships, anticipate future BAAs, and position for larger collaborations and technology transition pipelines. Registration and clearance submission are due by August 19, 2025, via the ONR Industry Day registration portal.

New Program

• N0001425SBC05: Special Program Announcement for ONR FY26 Communications and Networking Applied Research 
  This ONR opportunity focuses on developing innovative communication and networking technologies to support naval operations in contested, denied, and degraded environments across land, maritime, cyber, and space domains. Topic areas include: (1) atomic sensor-based receivers for very low frequency communications; (2) energy-efficient communication systems for telemetry from over-the-horizon unmanned platforms; (3) resilient, low-probability-of-detection communication solutions; (4) distributed network control/synchronization methods; and (5) traffic engineering policies derived from predictive analytics. Proposals outside these areas are also welcome if they support the Navy and Marine Corps' information warfare and decision-making capabilities. Selected projects will help the Navy’s push for robust, mission-critical connectivity at the tactical edge.
  Researchers in ECE, CS, physics, and ISR/autonomy at UMD may find strong alignment with this call, especially those working in areas such as low-power RF, embedded antennas, machine learning for predictive routing, or quantum-based communication and sensing. Cross-departmental collaborations with UMIACS, ARLIS, or the Maryland Cybersecurity Center may enhance competitiveness. Researchers are encouraged to submit white papers by July 11, 2025, to receive feedback and possibly be invited to give oral presentations and submit a full proposal. Award notifications are expected by April 2026.

Defense Health Agency
New Programs

• MTEC-25-08-PTSDprediction: Sailor Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Risk Prediction Model
  This opportunity invites proposals to design a deployable prototype PTSD risk prediction model tailored to the U.S. Navy's operational environment. The prototype must incorporate data from sources such as the Defense Manpower Data Center, Military Health System Data Repository, and Defense Organizational Climate Survey. Offerors are expected to apply novel machine learning techniques to produce high-skill binary classification models for PTSD risk, overcoming challenges such as outcome class imbalance and longitudinal, multi-level data structures. Deliverables include containerized software, dashboard applications, technical documentation, and source code with Government Purpose Rights.
  UMD expertise found across UMIACS, CS, and the Maryland Center for Health Equity, particularly among those engaged in predictive analytics, ethics in AI, and mental health informatics. Researchers within SPP and BSOS with experience in trauma-informed interventions, as well as faculty collaborating with the Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress, may also contribute valuable domain expertise. UMD’s existing relationships with the Department of Defense and its secure data infrastructure position it well for this high-impact opportunity focused on operational readiness and proactive mental health care in military settings.
• MTEC-25-07-Pharmacogenomics: Pharmacogenomics (PGx) Testing for Military Readiness Pilot 
  This MTEC opportunity aims to establish a pharmacogenomics pilot to advance precision medicine within the Military Health System (MHS). The awardee will collaborate with Military Treatment Facilities already equipped for PGx testing to implement a telehealth-compatible PGx consultation and data workflow system. The project will integrate PGx results into the DoD’s electronic health records through secure APIs, in alignment with NIST and DFARS cybersecurity protocols. The effort includes clinical protocol development, pilot implementation, data analysis, and impact reporting—particularly on adverse drug reactions, cost of care, medication efficacy, and return-to-duty rates.
  UMD faculty and labs within the IBBR, the CHIB, and BIOE, who work at the intersection of personalized medicine, health informatics, and genomic analysis, may find this opportunity of interest. Our researchers, with experience in DoD contracting, expertise in secure data environments, and a focus on health outcomes evaluation, particularly in pharmacogenomics and military-focused behavioral health, are well-positioned for this opportunity. Collaboration with UMB’s School of Pharmacy or Center for Translational Medicine may further strengthen a UMD-led proposal.

State Department
New Program

• PAS-MUSCAT-25-001: Advancing U.S.-Oman Partnerships 
  The U.S. Embassy in Muscat, Oman, has released its FY 2025 Notice of Funding Opportunity (PAS-MUSCAT-25-001) seeking concise Statements of Interest (SOIs) for programs that advance bilateral cooperation in cultural/artistic exchange, English language education, entrepreneurship and economic development, and STEM and innovation. Funded activities may include workshops, study tours, joint research, artistic performances, and educational collaborations that showcase American values, expertise, and institutional partnerships. All projects must demonstrate a clear American cultural or institutional link and support people-to-people diplomacy consistent with U.S. Embassy Muscat's mission and Oman Vision 2040.
  UMD faculty and units engaged in global education and diplomacy may find this opportunity especially relevant. The School of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures (SLLC) and English Department may find this of particular interest for projects in language instruction and pedagogy. Faculty in the SPP, Economics, or CIBE might propose entrepreneurship or economic exchange programs. Researchers could lead STEM-related efforts from Engineering, the UMIACS, or Mtech. Additionally, the Clarice and UMD Arts for All could partner on cultural diplomacy and artistic exchange initiatives. Interested parties are encouraged to explore cross-disciplinary and institutional collaborations to strengthen proposals.

Department of Education
New Program

• ED-GRANTS-052725-003: Personnel Development To Improve Services and Results for Children With Disabilities 
  This program supports the development of highly qualified, fully credentialed personnel capable of serving infants, toddlers, and school-age children with disabilities who require intensive, individualized services. The funding supports interdisciplinary training across at least two graduate-level programs in special education, early intervention, and related services (e.g., speech-language pathology, audiology, physical therapy, occupational therapy, social work, or counseling). Applicants must detail a curriculum grounded in evidence-based practices and include integrated coursework, shared assignments, and extensive field/clinical experiences. Up to $100,000 of first-year funds may be used for program planning and infrastructure development, such as faculty training and partnership-building with high-need schools or early childhood programs.
  UMD colleges, including EDU, SPH, and BSOS, may find this opportunity of interest. Interdisciplinary collaboration between programs like Special Education, School Psychology, Speech and Hearing Sciences, and Family Science can position UMD to develop a competitive proposal. Strong letters of support from local education agencies (LEAs) or early intervention programs in high-poverty or high-need areas will strengthen applications. 

Department of the Air Force
New Program

• FA955025S0001: AFOSR Long Range BAA 
  AFOSR’s Long Range BAA supports high-risk, high-reward basic research efforts aligned with long-term strategic needs of the U.S. Air and Space Forces. Key topic areas include but are not limited to hybrid nonlinear control systems, physics-informed machine learning, quantum sensing, neuromorphic computing, advanced materials under extreme environments, cognitive performance augmentation, and brain-inspired AI. Proposers are encouraged to explore interdisciplinary approaches that bridge mathematics, physics, computer science, engineering, and biology to advance knowledge in domains such as dynamic data systems, cyber-physical security, complex networks, trust in autonomy, and ultrafast photonics. Proposals should clearly articulate the scientific advancement, proposed methods, and relevance to future operational capabilities.
  This opportunity is particularly relevant to faculty and researchers in ECE, CS, Mathematics, AE, ME, and the ISR. Researchers affiliated with the QTC, MRC, and the BBI may find strong alignment, especially those working in autonomous systems, AI theory, neuromorphic hardware, quantum information science, and bio-integrated sensing. Faculty in the BIOE conducting research at the intersection of biophysics and cognitive augmentation are also well-positioned for cross-disciplinary projects under this BAA.

Requests for Information (RFIs): RFIs offer guidance to the federal government on specific areas of interest. Researchers can respond to RFIs to influence policy decisions and shape future funding calls. For questions or support on RFIs, please contact Patrick M. Mendez. RFI due dates are noted in parentheses.

• SDA RFI on Commercial Space Domain Awareness, Sensors as a Service (6/6)
• Air Force RFI on Auto-Labeling Models for Target Data (6/15)
• DARPA BTO RFI on Advanced Disease Outbreak Simulation Capabilities (6/23)
• Air Force RFI on System of Systems Dynamic Mission Replanning (6/30)
   

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