The Department of War has announced that it will award $19.2 million to 29 academic teams as part of the Defense Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (DEPSCoR). This program is intended to strengthen research infrastructure at higher education institutions in states and territories that have historically received less federal research funding.
Dr. David Montgomery, acting director of the Department’s Basic Research Office, commented on the significance of the initiative: "The Department's technology progress relies on a network of creative and insightful academics in every state of the nation. DEPSCoR aims to enhance the science and engineering foundations for these researchers and their institutions, while encouraging more researchers to pursue investigations in DoW-relevant areas. It is crucial that we build defense research infrastructure that strategically develops and uses the vast capabilities found across the country."
The awards result from two fiscal year 2024 competitions: DEPSCoR Research Collaboration and DEPSCoR Capacity Building.
The Research Collaboration competition was open to tenured and tenure-track faculty from 37 eligible states and territories. Over 120 white papers were submitted for consideration. Subject matter experts selected 27 collaborative teams led by universities from states including Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, Connecticut, Hawai'i, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin. Each team is set to receive up to $600,000 over three years for projects aligned with Department priorities.
A list of winning teams can be accessed through this link.
In addition to research collaboration grants, two finalists were chosen in the Capacity Building competition out of more than 30 white paper submissions. The executive offices at Boise State University and the University of Iowa will each lead a team receiving up to $1.5 million over two years for capacity-building efforts aimed at enhancing basic research excellence.
The Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering serves as Chief Technology Officer for the Department and oversees efforts in science and technology development intended to sustain military technological superiority. More information about this office is available at www.cto.mil or via its official social media channels.
