The Security Program Questionnaire serves as a tool to evaluate the security protocols of organizations applying for research funding from the federal government. Intended for completion by collaborators and reviewed by the Science and Technology (S&T) Protection Lead, the questionnaire encompasses various aspects of security practices. Key areas addressed include physical security plans, information security processes, data storage methods, transmission and transportation procedures, and information disposal protocols.
Additional inquiries focus on cybersecurity measures, operational security to fend off adversaries, insider threat management, and contingency procedures for compromised information. The document also emphasizes the necessity of providing annual S&T Protection training to personnel with data access. By assessing these critical security components, the questionnaire aims to ensure the safeguarding of government-funded research efforts against both external threats and internal vulnerabilities, contributing to a secure research environment and compliance with federal security standards.
The Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) issues a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) to solicit proposals for basic research aligned with the U.S. Air Force and Space Force's scientific needs. The BAA outlines the availability of approximately $200 million for fundamental research across various domains, including engineering, physical sciences, and biology, with individual awards typically ranging from $100,000 to $300,000 annually for a duration of up to five years. AFOSR is particularly interested in areas such as engineering and complex systems, information and networks, and chemical and biological sciences, seeking innovations that can significantly enhance national defense capabilities. Proposals should address advanced topics in solid-state physics, GHz-THz electronics, propulsion systems, and cybersecurity, among others. Interested parties are encouraged to contact specific program officers to discuss the research ideas and submission details. The announcement remains open until superseded, emphasizing that funding is not guaranteed for all proposals received.