The Department of Energy announced on July 22 the selection of 278 projects under the Genesis Mission, an initiative designed to accelerate AI-driven scientific discovery and enhance American leadership in science and technology. The Genesis Mission aims to double America’s scientific productivity by combining advanced artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, and collaboration among leading researchers across the nation.
“America has no shortage of bold ideas or talented scientists, and the response to the Genesis Mission proves that,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright. “The 278 projects selected today represent the very best of our nation’s scientific enterprise. The remarkable number of high-quality proposals we received demonstrates that America’s innovation pipeline is strong, and it points to even greater opportunities for future investment and continued expansion of the Genesis Mission portfolio.”
According to the Department of Energy, this request for applications generated the largest response in its history. Of the selected awards, 87 are led by DOE and National Nuclear Security Administration laboratories, 168 by universities, 19 by companies, and four by nonprofit organizations. In total, there are 342 participating institutions spanning national laboratories, universities, companies, nonprofits, and other organizations.
The awarded projects will focus on major energy and engineering challenges such as nuclear energy advancement using AI for safer facility delivery at lower costs; critical mineral extraction; intelligent chip design; and commercial fusion energy development. The largest project involves a three-year $60 million investment aimed at improving nuclear energy outcomes through artificial intelligence technologies.
“The extraordinary response to this Genesis Mission application process demonstrates that America’s scientific community is ready to reimagine how discovery happens,” said Under Secretary for Science Dr. Darío Gil. “Through the Genesis Mission, we are bringing together the nation’s leading researchers, institutions, and technology partners to build the next generation of scientific capability. We look forward to seeing these teams demonstrate new research workflows that accelerate discovery and reveal what is possible when AI and science advance together.” Awardees will have access to advanced computing resources as well as industry-provided software frameworks through DOE’s platform.
Selection for award negotiations does not guarantee funding; both DOE staff and applicants must complete a negotiation process before funds are distributed.