Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN)
ID: HR001125S0004Type: Solicitation
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEFENSE ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY (DARPA)DEF ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGCYARLINGTON, VA, 222032114, USA

NAICS

Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) (541715)

PSC

NATIONAL DEFENSE R&D SERVICES; DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE - MILITARY; BASIC RESEARCH (AC11)
Timeline
    Description

    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is soliciting proposals for the Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN) program, aimed at developing high-sensitivity neutrino detectors. The initiative seeks innovative approaches to enhance the detection of low-energy neutrinos, particularly from nuclear reactors, utilizing advanced quantum sensing technologies. This program is critical for advancing national security and scientific research, with funding anticipated between $1 million and $5 million per award over a 30-month period. Proposals are due by January 23, 2025, and interested parties can contact the BAA Coordinator at QuSeN@darpa.mil for further information.

    Point(s) of Contact
    BAA Coordinator
    QuSeN@darpa.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The document outlines the proposal for the "Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN)" project. It serves as an abstract summary template for a federal solicitation, emphasizing risk assessment, innovative ideas, team composition, and responsibilities. The proposal aims to address the scientific exploration of neutrinos through advanced quantum sensing techniques. Key components include a detailed risk analysis associated with the project, along with new methodologies being introduced to enhance neutrino detection. The structure highlights the importance of collaboration among team members, delineating specific responsibilities for effective execution. By focusing on these elements, the initiative aims to contribute significantly to the understanding of neutrinos and potential applications in various fields. The context emphasizes the project's alignment with federal funding opportunities geared toward cutting-edge research and technological advancements.
    The document pertains to DARPA's Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for the Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN) project, which outlines the submission process for abstracts related to this initiative. Proposers must adhere to specific formatting and content guidelines, including submission in English and a maximum length of five pages, excluding certain sections like figures and optional technical papers. Abstracts should be classified as UNCLASSIFIED or Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and include proprietary information markings if applicable. Key components of the submission include a description of the project's goals and impact, the proposed technical approach, management capabilities, and a cost and schedule estimate. Proposers are encouraged to submit abstracts prior to full proposals, with DARPA providing feedback on whether to proceed with a full proposal. The document emphasizes that a favorable abstract response does not guarantee proposal selection. All abstracts must be submitted before the specified deadline through DARPA’s Broad Agency Announcement Tool, rather than Grants.gov, signaling the organized approach to solicit innovative project ideas within the framework of federal funding opportunities.
    The HR001125S0004 document outlines the submission process for abstracts related to the DARPA initiative "Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos" (QuSeN). It mandates the use of a specific template and requires submissions to be no longer than five pages, formatted appropriately, and in English. The document emphasizes the importance of including all required sections, notably the Cover Sheet, Goals and Impact, Technical Approach, Capabilities/Management Plan, and Cost and Schedule. Proposers are encouraged to submit abstracts prior to full proposals for feedback from DARPA, which will indicate whether to proceed. However, this guidance does not guarantee selection for award negotiation. Additionally, abstracts must adhere to a specified deadline and should not be submitted via Grants.gov. The structure of the document organizes content into clearly defined areas, allowing for a systematic approach to presenting innovative ideas and technical details. Overall, this initiative supports advancements in quantum sensing, positioning it as a critical component of defense technology development.
    The proposal titled "Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos" (QuSeN) outlines a collaborative effort aimed at advancing quantum sensing technologies for neutrino detection. The proposal emphasizes the project's risks, including potential technical challenges and resource constraints, while also highlighting innovative ideas to mitigate these risks. Key team members and their responsibilities are delineated, showcasing a multidisciplinary approach to address the project's objectives effectively. The document aligns with federal guidelines, specifically referencing Source Selection Information as per FAR 2.101 & 3.104. Overall, the proposal reflects a strategic initiative within the realm of federal research and grants, focusing on cutting-edge scientific advancements with significant implications for various applications.
    The document outlines the proposal instructions and technical management template for the Department of Defense's Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HR001125S0004, aimed at "Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos" (QuSeN). Proposers must use the mandatory template and include specific attachments depending on the type of agreement requested—either procurement contracts or cooperative agreements. Key submission requirements stipulate that all proposals be formatted appropriately, written in English, and not exceed a maximum of 20 pages, excluding optional sections. The proposal must include a cover sheet, a detailed transmittal letter, a project summary, goals, a technical plan, capabilities statement, statement of work, schedule, milestone tracking, and management plan. Additionally, it addresses personnel qualifications, conflict of interest disclosures, representations regarding certifications, and intellectual property assertions. A bibliography may be included to support the proposal. The primary focus is on collecting proposals that provide innovative solutions, outlining technical challenges, expected impacts, and project relevance. Through a structured approach, the government seeks to evaluate and select proposals that significantly advance the state of the art in neutrino sensing technologies while ensuring compliance with federal regulations and administrative requirements.
    The document outlines the Cost Volume Template for HR001125S0004, focusing on the Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN) initiative. It provides comprehensive instructions for proposers submitting cost proposals for various federal contract types, including Procurement Contracts, Cooperative Agreements, and Other Transaction Agreements for Research. Proposals must detail all program components, ensuring that costs are traceable between the prime proposer and subawardees. A designated MS Excel DARPA Standard Cost Proposal Spreadsheet is required to maintain cost traceability and facilitate government analysis. Key sections include cost categories such as Direct Labor, Indirect Costs, Materials, Equipment Purchases, Travel, Other Direct Costs, Consultant Costs, and Subawardee Costs, with specific documentation and supporting information to be included. The document also sets forth requirements specific to contract types, including certified cost or pricing data, subcontracting plans for small businesses, and compliance documentation for accounting systems. Emphasizing clarity and detail, the guideline aims to ensure a standardized approach to cost proposals, expediting the assessment and award process. Adherence to formatting, submission requirements, and content guidelines is paramount for proposal completeness and evaluation.
    The DARPA Standard Cost Proposal Spreadsheet provides a structured format for proposers to submit complete and accurate cost proposals in response to federal solicitations. Its primary purpose is to assist government personnel in evaluating submitted cost proposals efficiently. The document outlines required costs such as direct labor, fringe benefits, overhead, subcontractor and consultant expenses, and general administrative costs, emphasizing that unpriced options will not be accepted. Proposers are urged to provide detailed breakdowns of their costs by task and maintain adequate supporting documentation, as they bear the responsibility for establishing the reasonableness of their proposed costs. The spreadsheet contains multiple tabs for specific cost categories and allows for modification, ensuring all data aligns across tabs without losing structural integrity. Additionally, DARPA encourages feedback on the spreadsheet's usability to improve the submission process. This document illustrates the thorough documentation and rigorous analysis expected in federal RFPs, reinforcing the government's commitment to transparency and accountability in the procurement process.
    Amendment 1 to the HR001125S0004 Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN) Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) aims to clarify aspects regarding the optional support from Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs), University Affiliated Research Centers (UARCs), and National Laboratories. The amendment specifies that these changes are noted within the document, highlighted in yellow, while confirming that no other modifications have been made to the original announcement outside those mentioned. The intent of the BAA is to facilitate research and development in quantum sensing technologies applicable to neutrino detection, which has significant scientific and national defense implications. This amendment underscores the government's commitment to enhancing collaboration with research institutions and laboratories to advance innovative technologies.
    Amendment 2 to the HR001125S0004 Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN) Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) serves to extend the deadline for proposal submissions to January 23, 2025. The document notes that all modifications are marked with yellow highlights, and it emphasizes that no other changes have been made to the original announcement. This amendment is part of the federal process for soliciting proposals related to advanced quantum sensing technologies, indicating continued interest and opportunity for research in neutrino detection, a critical area for scientific exploration. Overall, the amendment aims to provide additional time for potential applicants to prepare their submissions, reflecting a responsive approach to the needs of the research community.
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (HR001125S0004) for the Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN) program, aiming to develop advanced neutrino detectors with enhanced sensitivity. The focus is on innovative approaches to detecting low-energy neutrinos, particularly from nuclear sources, using technologies like coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CENNS) and quantum sensors. Proposals are invited for projects to address challenges in sensor and absorber development over a 30-month period. Funding is anticipated between $1M to $5M per award. Key milestones include design reviews, quarterly reports, and a final report demonstrating research outcomes. Evaluation criteria emphasize scientific merit, alignment with DARPA's mission, and realistic cost and schedule projections. The solicitation encourages submissions from all capable organizations, including small businesses and minority institutions, while also promoting collaboration with National Laboratories when necessary. The overall goal is to foster technological advances in neutrino detection, contributing to national security and enhancing the technology base for future applications in fundamental research.
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for the Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN) program, seeking innovative proposals for high-sensitivity neutrino detectors. This initiative aims to significantly improve the detection of low-energy neutrinos, particularly from nuclear reactors, using coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CENNS) and quantum sensing technologies. The program lasts 30 months and anticipates multiple awards ranging from $1M to $5M. Proposers must address two main challenges: sensor development and absorber scaling, with goals of achieving a neutrino energy transfer sensitivity of less than 0.5 eV and scalable absorbers over 1 kg. Proposals should detail the research, milestones, risks, and mitigation strategies to achieve the specified program objectives. Evaluations will focus on technical merit, relevance to DARPA's mission, and cost realism. Full proposals are due by January 23, 2025, with earlier abstract submissions encouraged. The BAA emphasizes collaboration, with requirements for regular meetings and reports throughout the program. Overall, the QuSeN program represents a strategic effort to enhance national security technology through advanced neutrino detection capabilities.
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for funding research on Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN) aimed at developing high-sensitivity neutrino detectors. The initiative, under funding opportunity number HR001125S0004, seeks innovative approaches that leverage quantum sensing technologies to improve detection performance of neutrinos, particularly those emitted by nuclear reactors and materials. Proposals are due by January 20, 2025, with anticipated awards ranging from $1 million to $5 million over a 30-month period. The program focuses on addressing two main challenges: the development of sensitive sensors capable of detecting low-energy neutrinos and the scaling of absorber materials. Initial project goals include demonstrating detectors with energy transfer sensitivity below 0.5 eV and achieving a significant mass for absorbers (greater than 1 kg) composed of materials with high neutron numbers. The program encourages collaboration and the integration of theory, modeling, and experimental testing to overcome these technical challenges. Proposers are required to outline their approach, risk management strategies, and expected contributions to advancing national security technology. The announcement invites diverse participation, particularly from universities and small businesses, emphasizing that it is open to both U.S. and non-U.S. sources, encouraging broader innovation in neutrino detection technologies.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    Solicitation
    Similar Opportunities
    Request for Information: Quantum Entanglement-Enhanced Novel Sensing (QUEENS)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is seeking information on the application of quantum entanglement in novel sensing technologies through its Request for Information (RFI) identified as DARPA-SN-25-18. The objective is to gather insights that will guide future investments in quantum sensor architectures and interconnects, focusing on two main research thrusts: Heterogeneous Architectures for integrating various quantum media and Homogeneous Architectures aimed at enhancing entangled sensor systems. This initiative highlights the potential of quantum entanglement to improve measurement precision and reduce noise in sensing applications critical to defense and research. Responses to the RFI are due by January 15, 2025, and interested parties can contact the BAA Coordinator at DARPA-SN-25-18@darpa.mil for further information.
    QUANTUM INFORMATION SCIENCES
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of the Air Force, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is seeking innovative research and development proposals under the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for Quantum Information Sciences. This initiative aims to advance technologies related to Command, Control, Communications, Computers & Intelligence (C4I), focusing on areas such as quantum algorithms, networking, and information processing. The BAA has a total funding availability of approximately $499.99 million, with individual awards ranging from $0.5 million to $27 million, and proposals will be accepted until September 30, 2027. Interested parties should contact Jon M. Maggiolino at Jon.Maggiolino@us.af.mil or Amber M. Buckley at Amber.Buckley@us.af.mil for further details and submission guidelines.
    Neutron Strategic Technology Advanced Research (Neutron-STAR) Advanced Research Announcement (ARA)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is soliciting proposals under the Neutron Strategic Technology Advanced Research Announcement (Neutron-STAR ARA) for advanced research and development projects focused on enhancing national defense technologies. The primary objectives include nuclear-related research encompassing modeling and simulation of re-entry environments, materials characterization, nuclear explosion monitoring, and the design and experimentation of nuclear delivery systems. This initiative is critical for advancing U.S. nuclear deterrence capabilities and ensuring robust national security. Interested parties are encouraged to submit unclassified white papers to the Neutron STAR Org Mailbox at afrl.rvkb.afrlneutronstardms@us.af.mil, with no specified deadline for submissions, and are advised to refer to the attached Neutron Star Industry User Guide for detailed submission requirements and evaluation criteria.
    Disruptioneering Program Announcement
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is announcing the Disruptioneering Program, inviting proposals for high-risk, high-reward research initiatives aimed at advancing national security applications. This program seeks to rapidly investigate new technologies through targeted Disruption Opportunities (DOs), enabling the development of innovative prototypes within a streamlined timeframe of less than 120 days from idea inception. Proposals must be unclassified and adhere to specific submission formats, with funding awards anticipated to reach up to $2 million, requiring a minimum one-third cost share. Interested parties can contact the BAA Coordinator at DARPA-PA-24-04@darpa.mil for further details and guidance on proposal submissions.
    Emon
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is inviting innovative research proposals for a Disruption Opportunity (DO) titled "Emon," focusing on advancements in radar waveform generation, electromagnetic wave propagation, and processing. The initiative aims to explore the tensorial nature of electromagnetic fields to enhance radar systems, particularly through the development of nontraditional waveforms that improve radar resolution and environmental observation capabilities. With a total funding limit of $2 million, the project is expected to span 18 months, commencing in March 2025, and requires unclassified proposals to be submitted via DARPA’s portal by January 24, 2025. Interested parties can reach out to the BAA Coordinator at emon@darpa.mil for further inquiries.
    Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) Future Opportunity Special Notice
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    Special Notice DEPT OF DEFENSE Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI): The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is seeking innovative approaches for the construction of a utility-scale fault-tolerant quantum computer and applications that can run on those machines. The purpose of this initiative is to explore the potential transformative impact of quantum computers on various scientific and technical disciplines. This opportunity is open to research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences.
    Defense Sciences Office (DSO) Office-wide BAA
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is inviting proposals for its Defense Sciences Office (DSO) Office-wide Broad Agency Announcement (BAA), aimed at soliciting innovative research ideas that can lead to revolutionary advancements in national security applications. Proposals should focus on novel approaches rather than incremental improvements, covering key research areas such as Novel Materials & Structures, Sensing & Measurement, and Emerging Threats. This initiative is crucial for fostering advanced research that aligns with DARPA's mission to enhance national defense capabilities. Interested organizations can submit proposals until September 26, 2025, and should direct inquiries to the BAA Coordinator at HR001124S0039@darpa.mil.
    Microsystems Exploration
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is seeking proposals for its Microsystems Exploration program, aimed at developing high-risk, high-reward technologies that can lead to significant advancements in materials, devices, and microsystems. The program encourages rapid responses to emerging opportunities with targeted investments, allowing for project initiation within 120 days of topic announcements, and funding up to $2 million for projects that include a feasibility study and proof of concept phases. This initiative is crucial for fostering innovative solutions in areas such as photonics and quantum computing, contributing to national security objectives. Interested applicants can reach out to Dr. Whitney Mason at DARPA-PA-25-01@darpa.mil for further information regarding submission requirements and deadlines.
    Nuclear Thermal Rocket Propulsion RFI
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is seeking innovative solutions for space-qualified nuclear thermal rocket propulsion engine design and integration through a Request for Information (RFI). This initiative aims to identify sources capable of providing advanced capabilities in engine design, modeling, simulation, and autonomous control, with a focus on safety analysis for nuclear launch authorization from the Department of Defense. The RFI is part of DARPA's collaboration with NASA's DRACO program, which seeks to enhance U.S. military capabilities and support future human missions to Mars by developing a compact nuclear thermal rocket engine fueled by high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU). Responses to this RFI are due by January 20, 2025, and interested parties can contact the TTO BAA Coordinator at DARPA-SN-25-21@darpa.mil for further information.
    LPS Qubit Collaboratory (LQC)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Army, has issued a Combined Synopsis/Solicitation notice for the procurement of the LPS Qubit Collaboratory (LQC). The LQC is a collaborative research initiative between the U.S. Army Research Office (ARO) and NSA's Laboratory for Physical Science (LPS) focused on qubit development for quantum computing and other applications such as sensing. The goal of the LQC is to pursue disruptive fundamental research and enabling technologies, build collaborative partnerships, and develop a quantum workforce for the future. The notice seeks proposals from the public and private sectors to advance solutions through collaborative research. The LQC Research Thrusts, technical areas of interest, will be pursued through Incubator and Collaboration agreements. Additionally, the notice calls for Quantum Computing Research (QuaCR) Graduate and Postdoctoral Fellowships to support talented U.S. citizen researchers in the field of quantum information processing and quantum sensing. The LQC aims to solve the most difficult and long-term Quantum Information Science & Technology (QIST) research problems and create a pathway for technology development and transition opportunities.