Young Faculty Award (YFA) 2026
ID: 360697Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

DARPA - Defense Sciences Office (DOD-DARPA-DSO)

Eligible Applicants

Others

Funding Category

Science and Technology and other Research and Development

Funding Instrument

Cooperative Agreement

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes

Original Source

https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/360697

Additional Information

https://sam.gov/opp/6e1c9f0b12e14294a3e25469bca75d8a/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is inviting proposals for the Young Faculty Award (YFA) 2026, aimed at supporting innovative research from junior faculty at U.S. institutions. This program seeks to engage rising stars in academia and non-profit research institutions, particularly those without prior DARPA funding, to address Department of Defense (DoD) needs and enhance national security capabilities. The YFA program offers high-impact funding of up to $500,000 for a 24-month base period, with an optional 12-month fellowship, and encourages early-career researchers to develop transformative solutions. Interested applicants must submit an executive summary by October 15, 2025, with full proposals due by January 20, 2026; for further details, contact YFA2026@darpa.mil or visit the SAM.gov listing.

    Point(s) of Contact
    YFA2026@darpa.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    Attachment_A_EXECUTIVE_SUMMARY_TEMPLATE.docx
    The DARPARA2502 Young Faculty Award (YFA) requires an executive summary for submissions, emphasizing a mandatory template and strict formatting. Submissions must be in .pdf, .odx, .doc, or .docx formats, written in English, and formatted for 8.5 by 11-inch paper with 1-inch margins and a 12-point font. Crucially, the executive summary itself must be anonymized for blind review, excluding identifying information of the PI, organization, or team members, which should only appear on the cover sheet. The executive summary is limited to one page, excluding the cover sheet, which can extend to two or more pages. The document outlines specific content requirements for the executive summary, including a 1-2 sentence summary of the effort, a one-paragraph introduction/background describing the problem and current limitations, a short paragraph on the project's impact, and a section detailing methodologies and approaches. The cover sheet requires information such as the YFA topic area, executive summary title, prime organization details, technical and administrative points of contact, the PI's tenure track start date, approved leaves of absence, prior YFA proposals, and a certification of PI eligibility.
    Attachment_B_PROPOSAL_SUMMARY_SLIDE_TEMPLATE.pptx
    This document, DARPARA2502 – Attachment B, outlines the essential components for a government proposal, likely for a federal grant or RFP. It details the required sections for a submission: a "High Level Vision" to articulate the core idea, problem, and importance; a "Technical Approach and Risks" section for a concise, bulleted list of the technical methodology, figures, major risks, and mitigation strategies; and a "Project Impact and Potential Application" section to quantify successful project outcomes and their relevance to the DoD, if applicable. The document also specifies the inclusion of the submission title and proposer information. This structure ensures that proposals effectively communicate their technical approach, potential impact, and risk management strategies to government evaluators.
    Attachment_C_PROPOSAL_TEMPLATE_VOLUME_1_-_TECHNICAL___MANAGEMENT.docx
    The DARPARA2502 Young Faculty Award (YFA) Proposal Template outlines mandatory requirements for submitting Volume 1: Technical and Management proposals. Submissions must address a 36-month program, use the provided template, and adhere to specific formatting (8-1/2 by 11-inch paper, 1-inch margins, 12-point font for text, 8 or 10-point for figures/tables). The Technical and Management Volume has an 8-page limit, excluding the Cover Sheet, Table of Contents, Official Transmittal Letter, Summary Slide, and optional Bibliography. The proposal requires detailed sections covering an Executive Summary, Goals and Impact, Technical Plan, Management Plan, Personnel, Capabilities, Statement of Work (SOW), and Schedule and Milestones. Key information like PI eligibility, proposed costs, past federal awards, and team organization is mandatory. The Summary Slide (Attachment B) must be submitted separately in PowerPoint format. Failure to follow these instructions may result in a non-conforming submission.
    DARPARA2502.pdf
    DARPA's Young Faculty Award (YFA) 2026 Research Announcement (RA) invites proposals from junior academic and non-profit research faculty for innovative research addressing Department of Defense (DoD) needs. The program offers 24-month base awards (up to $500,000) with a 12-month option period (up to $500,000) and an additional option for a U.S. Person Graduate Student (up to $200,000). Eligibility is restricted to faculty at U.S. institutions within a specific timeframe of tenure or Ph.D. receipt, with funding limitations from DARPA or DoD. Key dates include an Executive Summary due on October 15, 2025, and a Full Proposal due on January 20, 2026. The RA details 24 specific topic areas covering various scientific and technological fields, from quantum information to AI and advanced materials. Proposals will be evaluated on scientific/technical merit, relevance to DARPA's mission, and cost realism.
    Model_Cooperative_Agreement_.docx
    This document outlines the terms and conditions for a Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Cooperative Agreement, HR0011XX2XXXX. It details the agreement's purpose to fund research for a DARPA program, specifying the recipient, period of performance (base and option phases), and total funding, including cost-share requirements. The document emphasizes substantial government involvement in the research, outlining reporting requirements such as Annual/Final Research Performance Progress Reports, Financial Status Reports, and Data Management Plans. It also addresses crucial aspects like payment procedures via Wide Area Work Flow (WAWF), public release of information (with options for fundamental vs. non-fundamental research), intellectual property, security, human subject and animal welfare, and certifications regarding debarment, drug-free workplace, lobbying, and tax liability. The agreement is subject to DoD R&D General Terms and Conditions, supplemented by DARPA-specific addendums.
    Similar Opportunities
    Defense Sciences Office (DSO) Office-wide BAA
    DARPA - Defense Sciences Office
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is soliciting innovative proposals through its Defense Sciences Office (DSO) under the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HR001125S0013, aimed at advancing national security through revolutionary scientific and technological developments. Proposals should focus on groundbreaking research that leads to significant advancements rather than incremental improvements, covering areas such as materials, manufacturing, sensing, and intelligent systems. This initiative is crucial for fostering collaboration between government and private entities to enhance national security capabilities. Interested applicants can submit proposals until June 2, 2026, and are encouraged to contact the BAA Coordinator at HR001125S0013@darpa.mil for further information.
    TTO Office Wide (OW) BAA 2025
    DARPA - Tactical Technology Office
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is soliciting proposals through the Tactical Technology Office (TTO) under the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HR001125S0011, titled "TTO Office Wide (OW) BAA 2025." This initiative aims to foster innovative solutions that enhance the U.S. military's operational capabilities in areas such as Design/Build/Buy, Surge and Sustain, Long Range Effects, and Disruptive Innovation. The BAA emphasizes the importance of developing revolutionary platforms and systems that can be rapidly adapted and sustained to meet national security needs. Interested parties must submit an Executive Summary by December 22, 2026, and can find additional details and submission guidelines on SAM.gov or by contacting the BAA Coordinator at HR001125S0011@darpa.mil.
    DEVCOM ARMY RESEARCH LABORATORY BROAD AGENCY ANNOUNCEMENT FOR FOUNDATIONAL RESEARCH
    Dept of the Army -- Materiel Command
    The Department of the Army, through the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Army Research Laboratory (ARL), has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for foundational research aimed at enhancing Army capabilities from November 21, 2022, to November 20, 2027. This opportunity invites innovative research proposals from a diverse range of eligible applicants, including institutions of higher education, nonprofit organizations, state and local governments, and for-profit entities, to support ARL's mission of operationalizing science for military advancements. The BAA encompasses various research topics critical to Army modernization priorities, such as cyber-physical systems, artificial intelligence, and advanced learning-enabled intelligent systems, with a focus on improving soldier performance and operational capabilities in complex environments. Interested parties can find additional information and submit proposals via the ARL BAA topics website, with an expected number of awards totaling 2000 and no cost-sharing requirements. For inquiries, contact the U.S. Army Contracting Command at Aberdeen Proving Ground, or visit the ARL BAA topics website for further details.
    Research Interests of the Air Force Office of Scientific Research
    Air Force Office of Scientific Research
    The Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) is soliciting proposals for basic research through a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) aimed at addressing the scientific needs of the U.S. Air Force and Space Force. The opportunity focuses on fundamental research in various domains, including engineering, physical sciences, and biology, with an emphasis on innovations that enhance national defense capabilities, particularly in areas such as cybersecurity, propulsion systems, and advanced materials. AFOSR plans to allocate approximately $200 million for this initiative, with individual awards typically ranging from $100,000 to $300,000 annually for up to five years. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Jennifer Brown at afosr.baa@us.af.mil for further details, with proposals accepted until May 18, 2028.
    BROAD AGENCY ANNOUNCEMENT (BAA) for Extramural Biomedical and Human Performance Research and Development Department of Defense
    Dept. of the Army -- USAMRAA
    The Department of the Army, through the US Army Medical Research Acquisition Activity (USAMRAA), has announced a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for Extramural Biomedical and Human Performance Research and Development. This opportunity invites unrestricted applicants to submit proposals aimed at advancing biomedical research and development, with a focus on enhancing human performance. The program is critical for fostering innovation in science and technology, particularly in areas that support the Department of Defense's mission. The estimated total program funding is $10 million, with individual awards ranging from $750,000 to $50 million, and proposals are due by July 31, 2028. For further inquiries, applicants can contact the CDMRP Help Desk at help@eBRAP.org or by phone at 301-682-5507.
    Naval Engineering Education Consortium (NEEC) Broad Agency Announcement for Fiscal Year 2026
    NSWC Dahlgren
    The Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD) is inviting proposals for the Naval Engineering Education Consortium (NEEC) Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for fiscal year 2026, specifically targeting colleges and universities. This initiative aims to support research in advanced engineering topics pertinent to naval operations, including Naval Architecture and Ship Design, Robotics and Autonomous Systems, Electromagnetic Sensors, AI/ML applications, and innovative materials for military applications. The program emphasizes collaboration with NSWCDD experts to enhance student engagement in research while addressing complex challenges in naval technology. Proposals are due by October 15, 2025, with funding amounts ranging from $100,000 to $450,000, and interested applicants can reach out to Grant Specialist Jennifer E. Montrief at jennifer.e.montrief.civ@us.navy.mil or by phone at 540-273-2519 for further information.
    Biological Technologies
    DARPA - Biological Technologies Office
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is soliciting proposals for its Biological Technologies Office (BTO) under the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HR001126S0003, aimed at leveraging biological properties and processes to enhance the protection of the nation's warfighters. Proposals should focus on transformative solutions in areas such as artificial intelligence/machine learning applications in biological data, combat casualty care, human performance optimization, and biodefense, explicitly excluding incremental improvements to existing technologies. This opportunity is critical for advancing national security through innovative research and development, with proposals accepted on a rolling basis until September 30, 2026. Interested applicants can reach out to the BAA Coordinator at BTOBAA2026@darpa.mil for further information, and must adhere to specific submission guidelines, including the requirement to submit an abstract prior to full proposal submission.
    Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Department of the Navy (DoN) Historically Black Colleges and Universities/Minority Institutions (HBCU/MI) Program
    Office of Naval Research
    The Office of Naval Research (ONR) is offering a grant opportunity through the Fiscal Year 2026 Department of the Navy (DoN) Historically Black Colleges and Universities/Minority Institutions (HBCU/MI) Program, aimed at enhancing the participation of HBCUs and MIs in Navy research and development initiatives. This program seeks to strengthen the research capabilities of these institutions by providing funding to support STEM research that addresses naval challenges, with a total estimated funding of $1,575,000 available for grants ranging from $450,000 to $525,000 over a three-year period. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens with academic appointments at qualifying institutions, and proposals should focus on advancements in areas such as information superiority and undersea warfare. Key deadlines include the submission of white papers by September 19, 2025, and full proposals by December 12, 2025; for further inquiries, interested parties can contact Veronica Lacey at veronica.y.lacey.civ@us.navy.mil or by phone at 703-696-2593.
    Staff Research Program
    Dept of the Army -- Materiel Command
    The Department of the Army's Materiel Command is offering a funding opportunity for the Staff Research Program, aimed at engaging scientific staff in collaborative research with higher education institutions. This program seeks to enhance the professional competence of Army Research Office (ARO) scientists through hands-on, fundamental research in various scientific fields, including engineering, physical sciences, and life sciences, with a focus on advancing knowledge relevant to Army missions. Eligible applicants include institutions recognized for their scientific research capabilities, and the funding will be provided through cooperative agreements with award amounts ranging from $200,000 to $10 million. Proposals must be submitted via Grants.gov by June 2, 2030, and interested parties can contact Mr. William Creech at William.a.creech3.civ@army.mil for further information.
    US Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Indo-Pacific Fundamental Research Collaboration Opportunities
    USAF 347 Contracting Squadron
    The USAF 347 Contracting Squadron is offering a federal grant opportunity titled "US Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Indo-Pacific Fundamental Research Collaboration Opportunities." This initiative aims to foster the discovery, development, and integration of novel science and technologies specifically within the Indo-Pacific region, explicitly excluding engagements in the Continental United States. The funding, categorized under Science and Technology and other Research and Development, has an award ceiling of $9.5 million and a floor of $10,000, with an expected 51 awards to be made. Interested applicants can reach out to Mr. Kazuhito Urano or Mr. Joshua B. Grubb for further inquiries, and proposals must be submitted by August 30, 2027, as detailed on the System for Award Management (SAM) website.