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
  1. 1
    Posted Nov 5, 2024, 12:00 AM UTC
  2. 2
    Updated Jan 21, 2025, 12:00 AM UTC
  3. 3
    Due Feb 3, 2025, 4:00 PM UTC
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 neutrino detection capabilities, particularly through advancements in coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CEvNS) and quantum sensing technologies, targeting low-energy neutrinos from sources such as nuclear reactors. This program is critical for advancing national security technologies and scientific research in neutrino detection. Interested parties must submit abstracts by November 25, 2024, with full proposals due by February 3, 2025, and funding awards are anticipated to range from $1 million to $5 million over a 30-month period. For further inquiries, contact the BAA Coordinator at QuSeN@darpa.mil.

Point(s) of Contact
BAA Coordinator
QuSeN@darpa.mil
Files
Title
Posted
Jan 21, 2025, 8:04 PM UTC
The file outlines an abstract proposal for the federal government’s Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN) project. It includes essential elements such as the abstract summary, risk assessment, innovative approaches, and team responsibilities. Key points include the identification of potential risks associated with the initiative, the introduction of novel concepts in quantum sensing, and the composition of the team responsible for executing the project. Each member's responsibilities are specified to ensure a clear division of labor. The overarching purpose of the document is to request proposals and support for advancing quantum sensing technologies, with a focus on neutrino detection. This initiative aligns with federal interests in exploring advanced scientific methodologies and enhancing research capabilities. The document serves as a foundational reference for prospective bidders in understanding project expectations and requirements.
The document outlines the guidelines for submitting abstracts for the DARPA HR001125S0004 Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) focused on Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN). It mandates the use of specific templates for abstract submissions, stipulating a maximum length of five pages. Proposals must avoid classified information, adhere to formatting requirements, and submit in PDF or Word formats. Abstracts are encouraged prior to the full proposal submission, with DARPA providing feedback within thirty days. The main sections of the abstract should include the goals and impact, technical approach, management plan, and cost estimate. Detailed information on the proposed work, including its innovative nature, expected challenges, and team capabilities, is essential. Furthermore, the proposal should address the project’s budget and timeline. The overarching purpose is to assess innovative proposals that can advance the Department of Defense's capabilities in neutrino sensing. Failure to adhere to submission guidelines may result in non-evaluation of the abstracts or proposals.
Jan 21, 2025, 8:04 PM UTC
The document outlines the submission requirements for abstracts related to the DARPA solicitation HR001125S0004, focusing on the Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN) project. It stresses the mandatory use of a specific template and includes guidelines for page limits, formatting, and submission methods. Abstracts must be concise, capturing goals and impacts, technical approaches, management capabilities, and estimated costs within a maximum of five pages, excluding optional materials. The document emphasizes the importance of submitting an abstract prior to full proposals, as DARPA will provide feedback on whether to proceed with a full proposal submission. Key elements needed in the abstract include descriptions of innovative project aspects, technical challenges, team capabilities, and resource estimations. The intent is to foster innovative projects that enhance the understanding of neutrino sensing, ultimately benefiting defense applications while ensuring compliance with federal guidelines for proposals. The abstract submission deadline is strictly enforced to facilitate timely review and decision-making.
Jan 21, 2025, 8:04 PM UTC
The proposal titled "Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN)" presents an initiative aimed at advancing research in quantum sensing technology specifically related to neutrinos. The document outlines the organization responsible for the proposal and specifies the point of contact for technical inquiries. It emphasizes the identification of risks associated with the project and introduces innovative ideas that can enhance the overall effort. Additionally, the proposal describes the team structure, detailing the responsibilities assigned to each member, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the project’s goals. The content adheres to federal acquisition regulations, indicating a structured and compliant proposal framework. This initiative represents a significant effort to blend quantum physics with practical applications in neutrino detection, with potential implications for various scientific and technological fields.
The document outlines the proposal instructions and template for the DARPA Broad Agency Announcement HR001125S0004, focused on Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN). Proposers must adhere to specified formatting guidelines, submitting proposals in English and limited to 20 pages, excluding certain sections such as the cover sheet and references. The guidance emphasizes the need for concise, clear proposals detailing project goals, innovative approaches, technical plans, and organizational capabilities, while providing a thorough statement of work. Applicants must include detailed information regarding team members, conflict of interest disclosures, intellectual property considerations, and budget narratives, among other requirements. The document specifies submission formats, deadlines, and additional attachments needed based on the type of funding sought (procurement contracts, cooperative agreements, or other transaction agreements). Proposals are expected to clarify the project’s objectives, potential impacts, and innovative aspects compared to existing capabilities. Instructions also highlight the importance of demonstrating project feasibility through measurable milestones and the management plan, ensuring effective collaboration among team members while addressing technical risks. Ultimately, the document serves to guide proposers in structuring their submissions to align with governmental standards and expectations for funding consideration.
The document titled "HR001125S0004 Volume 2: Cost Volume Template" outlines the cost proposal requirements for the Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN) project. It provides detailed instructions for submitting cost volumes alongside proposals seeking Procurement Contracts or Other Transaction Agreements for Research, emphasizing the need for comprehensive cost analysis across various components including direct labor, indirect costs, materials, equipment purchases, travel, and more. Proposers must utilize the MS Excel DARPA Standard Cost Proposal Spreadsheet and ensure that costs are traceable across the proposal documents and consistent with the Statement of Work (SOW). Key elements include submitting non-proprietary cost proposals from subcontractors, detailed cost summaries, supporting documentation for cost estimates, and compliance with regulatory requirements such as certified cost or pricing data and small business subcontracting plans. The document stresses the need for clarity and organization within submissions to facilitate rapid Government analysis and expedite negotiations. Overall, this cost volume template serves as a crucial tool for ensuring accuracy and transparency in government-funded research proposals, promoting an efficient contracting process.
The DARPA Standard Cost Proposal Spreadsheet, dated November 2021, serves as a tool for proposers to submit their cost proposals for government contracts effectively. It emphasizes that proposers are responsible for providing complete and accurate supporting documentation for all proposed costs, with specific attention to labor, overhead, subcontracts, and other related expenses. The spreadsheet includes detailed tabs for entering labor rates, indirect rates, and cost breakdowns, ensuring all costs align with government requirements. It mandates full pricing disclosure and adherence to cost documentation standards, particularly under Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) guidelines. The process includes completing specified fields for various fiscal years and providing rationale for the costs proposed. Notably, the spreadsheet is structured to facilitate rapid analysis and negotiation of proposals, catering to both prime and subcontractors. DARPA encourages feedback on the spreadsheet to improve its functionality. This document plays a critical role in government RFPs, ensuring transparency and accountability in the budgetary submissions necessary for funding scientific and technological advancements.
Jan 21, 2025, 8:04 PM UTC
Amendment 1 to the HR001125S0004 Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN) Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) aims to clarify the potential involvement of Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs), University Affiliated Research Centers (UARCs), and National Laboratories in the proposal process. Specifically, changes related to these collaborations are highlighted on page 8 of the BAA and in Attachment B, page 4. The document specifies that only amendments concerning these support structures are noted, and no additional alterations have been made to the original announcement. This amendment serves to enhance the understanding and utilization of national resources in the QuSeN initiative, ensuring clearer participation guidelines for interested entities.
Jan 21, 2025, 8:04 PM UTC
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 amendment highlights that all changes to the announcement are indicated with yellow markings, while no additional modifications have been made to the original document. This extension allows potential applicants more time to prepare their proposals in response to this federal RFP related to quantum sensing research. The amendment reflects the federal government's ongoing efforts to foster research and innovation in quantum technologies, specifically in the field of neutrino detection.
Jan 21, 2025, 8:04 PM UTC
Amendment 3 to the HR001125S0004 Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN) Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) serves to extend important deadlines for the submission of questions and proposals. The new deadlines set are January 22, 2025 for questions and February 3, 2025 for proposals. The document indicates that all changes are highlighted in yellow, and it affirms that no other modifications have been made to the original announcement. This amendment plays a crucial role in the ongoing efforts to engage potential participants in the QuSeN initiative, ensuring that interested parties have ample time to prepare and submit their proposals while maintaining consistency in the RFP process.
Jan 21, 2025, 8:04 PM UTC
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. The initiative, with funding ranging from $1M to $5M per award, aims to develop technology that improves neutrino detection capabilities, particularly in the energy range of 0.1 to 8 MeV. QuSeN focuses on two main challenges: sensor and absorber development, requiring proposals to integrate quantum sensing techniques with coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CEvNS) methods. The program spans 30 months, beginning with a kick-off meeting on July 1, 2025, and proposals due by January 20, 2025. Key evaluation criteria include scientific merit, relevance to DARPA’s mission, and the realism of costs and schedules. Proposers may suggest alternative approaches but must address specified metrics related to detector performance. Additionally, the initiative supports collaboration with various organizations, including historically black colleges and universities, and emphasizes the government’s interest in fundamental research. Overall, QuSeN seeks groundbreaking advancements in neutrino detection to bolster national security technology endeavors.
Jan 21, 2025, 8:04 PM UTC
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) issues a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for the Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN) program, which aims to develop high-sensitivity neutrino detectors to enhance detection methods for neutrinos sourced from nuclear reactors and materials. Proposals are sought that innovate detector technology, particularly through quantum sensing techniques combined with coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CENNS). The expected timeline for proposals is between late 2024 and early 2025, with awards anticipated to range from $1M to $5M over a 30-month period. Key challenges include the development of sensors sensitive to sub-eV energy transfers and scalable absorbers exceeding 1 kilogram. Proposals must address significant technical risks, offer innovative solutions, and define specific project metrics. Evaluation criteria include scientific merit, relevance to DARPA’s mission, cost realism, and a structured approach to project execution. This RFP encourages extensive participation from diverse institutions while emphasizing national security advancements through innovative research.
Jan 21, 2025, 8:04 PM UTC
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for the Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN) program, aimed at developing high-sensitivity neutrino detectors over a 30-month period, with anticipated funding ranging from $1M to $5M per award. The initiative targets innovative methods for detecting neutrinos from various sources, focusing on advancements using coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CEvNS) and quantum sensing technologies. The program will explore challenges in sensor and absorber development, aiming for low-energy neutrino sensitivity (<0.5 eV) while maintaining high signal-to-noise ratios. Proposals should detail methodologies addressing these challenges, with an emphasis on achieving and demonstrating the technical goals within the specified timeframe. Evaluation criteria for proposals include scientific merit, relevance to national security, and cost realism. Interested parties must submit abstracts by November 25, 2024, and full proposals by February 3, 2025. The announcement encourages participation from diverse entities, including small and disadvantaged businesses, while ensuring compliance with federal regulations. This initiative represents DARPA's commitment to advancing critical technology in neutrino detection for potential national security applications.
Jan 21, 2025, 8:04 PM UTC
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for the Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSeN) program, soliciting proposals for innovative neutrino detection technologies. This initiative aims to enhance sensitivity in detecting low-energy neutrinos, specifically from nuclear reactors and materials, using advanced quantum sensing methods. Proposals are sought to address key challenges in sensor and absorber development, targeting energy transfer sensitivities below 0.5 eV and integrating athermal phonon sensors with absorbers of more than 1 kg mass containing atoms with high neutron numbers. The program will last for 30 months, with multiple awards anticipated, ranging from $1M to $5M. Proposals are due by January 20, 2025, following an initial abstract submission due on November 25, 2024. Evaluations will prioritize the scientific merit of proposals, their relevance to DARPA's mission, and the realism of proposed costs and schedules. Throughout the program, participants will be expected to conduct regular meetings and provide detailed reports on their progress. The overarching goal is to revolutionize neutrino detection capabilities, thereby supporting advancements in national security and science.
Lifecycle
Title
Type
Solicitation
Similar Opportunities
QUANTUM INFORMATION SCIENCES
Buyer not available
The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is issuing a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for Quantum Information Sciences (BAA FA8750-23-S-7001), inviting proposals for research and development aimed at enhancing Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I) technologies. The BAA focuses on key areas such as quantum algorithms, information processing, memory-node-based networking, and heterogeneous quantum platforms, with an estimated funding pool of approximately $500 million available for awards ranging from $0.5 million to $27 million, and up to $99.9 million for select projects. Eligible participants must be U.S.-based entities, as foreign participation is generally restricted, and proposals must adhere to specific submission guidelines and compliance regulations. 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, with white papers due by designated dates until the announcement closes on September 30, 2027.
Disruptioneering Program Announcement
Buyer not available
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is seeking proposals for its "Disruptioneering Program Announcement" aimed at fostering high-risk, high-reward research initiatives in defense sciences. This program will utilize Other Transactions for Prototype agreements to fund projects that lead to prototype demonstrations, with a total funding cap of $2 million for combined projects and a minimum cost share of one-third in certain cases. The initiative emphasizes rapid exploration of emerging scientific advances and encourages collaboration with commercial entities, nonprofits, and universities, particularly benefiting nontraditional defense contractors with reduced restrictions. Interested parties can direct inquiries to the BAA Coordinator at DARPA-PA-24-04@darpa.mil, with proposals expected to adhere to specific guidelines and submission formats outlined in the program documentation.
Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) Future Opportunity Special Notice
Buyer not available
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
Buyer not available
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
Buyer not available
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is soliciting proposals for its Microsystems Exploration program, aimed at advancing high-risk, high-reward technologies in areas such as photonics, quantum computing, and hardware security. Proposals must address specific Microsystems Exploration topics and include a structured approach for a two-phase project: a Phase 1 Feasibility Study and a Phase 2 Proof of Concept, with a total budget not exceeding $2 million and a duration of up to 24 months. This initiative is critical for fostering innovation that supports U.S. national security and technological superiority. Interested parties should submit their proposals in compliance with the outlined guidelines, including technical, pricing, and administrative requirements, and can direct inquiries to the MTO Program Announcement Coordinator at DARPA-PA-25-01@darpa.mil.
Dissolved Non-Condensable Gas Testing
Buyer not available
The Department of Energy, through the Naval Nuclear Laboratory, is soliciting proposals for a project focused on "Dissolved Non-Condensable Gas Testing." This initiative aims to conduct experiments that quantify the behavior of non-condensable gases (NCGs) such as nitrogen, hydrogen, and oxygen in water during various processes, including diffusion across steam/water interfaces, condensation, boiling, and flashing under different temperature and pressure conditions. The research is critical for advancing nuclear technology and improving operational efficiencies, with proposals due by April 8, 2025. Interested suppliers must submit a one-page Quad Chart and a five-page narrative detailing their project approach, along with adherence to disclosure protocols for sensitive information. For further inquiries, contact ATIP at ATIP@unnpp.gov.
Directed Energy Technology Experimentation Research (DETER) Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) Open Announcement
Buyer not available
The Department of Defense, specifically the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is soliciting proposals for the Directed Energy Technology Experimentation Research (DETER) Advanced Research Announcement (ARA), aimed at advancing directed energy technologies critical for national defense. This open announcement invites white papers and proposals through a two-step process to conduct research and development, modeling and simulation, and testing of directed energy systems and components. The initiative is vital for equipping the joint warfighter with next-generation technologies and enhancing the commercialization potential of directed energy investments. Interested parties should submit their white papers via the designated online portal and direct any inquiries to Bill Sherrod at afrl.deter.ara@us.af.mil. The announcement remains open indefinitely, with multiple awards anticipated based on the quality of submissions and funding availability.
LPS Qubit Collaboratory (LQC)
Buyer not available
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.
Securing Artificial Intelligence for Battlefield Effective Robustness (SABER)
Buyer not available
The Department of Defense, through the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), is soliciting proposals for the "Securing Artificial Intelligence for Battlefield Effective Robustness (SABER)" initiative, aimed at enhancing the security and robustness of AI systems in military applications. The primary objective is to establish an operational AI red team capable of assessing vulnerabilities in AI-enabled battlefield systems, focusing on both ground and aerial autonomous systems that may be deployed within the next 1-3 years. This initiative is critical as it addresses the increasing reliance on AI technologies in defense strategies and the associated security risks, particularly in dynamic and adversarial environments. Interested parties must submit their proposals by May 6, 2025, with an abstract submission deadline of March 31, 2025. For further inquiries, contact the BAA Coordinator at SABER@darpa.mil.
COLLABORATIVE SENSING & EXPLOITATION
Buyer not available
The Department of Defense, specifically the Air Force Research Laboratory, is seeking innovative research proposals under the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) FA8750-20-S-7014 for Collaborative Sensing & Exploitation technologies. The primary objective is to develop closed-loop sensing and sensor data exploitation capabilities in dynamic adversarial environments, focusing on three key areas: Closed Loop Sensing and Exploitation, Diverse Modality Sensing Exploitation, and Closed Loop Applications and Demonstrations. This initiative is critical for enhancing situational awareness and operational effectiveness in complex military scenarios, with an estimated total funding of approximately $25 million available for multiple awards, typically ranging from $400,000 to $1 million each. Interested parties must submit white papers by September 30, 2025, and are encouraged to contact Peter Zulch at Peter.Zulch@us.af.mil or Amber Buckley at Amber.Buckley@us.af.mil for further information.