Nanopore Bioelectronics for Next Generation Proteomics
SBIR Opportunity Analysis
DARPA, through DPA26BZ02-NV006, is seeking an SBIR effort to develop a next-generation single-molecule sensing and sequencing platform for biomolecules, especially proteins, with the goal of improving detection of unknown biological threats and advancing proteomics. The work centers on nanopore-based technologies that can directly read individual proteins, including novel sample preparation methods, engineered motors and nanopores, and machine learning approaches for decoding electronic signals. Phase I focuses on proving technical feasibility through custom microsystem interfaces, stable sensing under varying forces, customizable chemistries, and high-accuracy sequence-calling algorithms, with later phases intended to mature the platform toward scalable, robust operation and dual-use applications. The solicitation is open, and applications are due June 24, 2026 at 4:00 PM UTC.