University Research Initiatives

The University Research Initiatives program (PE 0601103F) is a key Air Force budget line item supporting basic research at U.S. universities in scientific and engineering disciplines relevant to national defense. The primary goal of this program is to maintain U.S. military technological superiority by advancing fundamental knowledge in areas such as nanotechnology, sensor networks, artificial intelligence, quantum materials, energy conversion, and high-energy materials. The program is managed and executed by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), which coordinates efforts to align with Department of the Air Force priorities and accelerate the delivery of innovative science and technology solutions.

The Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative (MURI) is a major component of this program, funding competitive research grants for complex, multi- and interdisciplinary projects involving multiple principal investigators. The objective is to expand basic knowledge in science and technology areas critical to the Air Force, supporting research efforts that are beyond the scope of single-investigator awards. The program also recognizes early-career academic researchers through the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers. In FY 2026, funding for MURI will decrease compared to FY 2025, resulting in fewer grants awarded due to strategic realignment and resource optimization.

The Science and Engineering Education line supports post-graduate, graduate, and undergraduate education in defense-related disciplines. Its goals include awarding National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate (NDSEG) fellowships and supporting research experiences for students at various levels. In FY 2026, the NDSEG Fellowship Program will be restructured to fund only current year academic costs, reducing the number of fellows across the Air Force, Army, and Navy. This adjustment reflects a broader effort to optimize core research areas and improve efficiency within the Science and Technology portfolio.

The Research Instrumentation line enables scientific and engineering research through the acquisition of advanced infrastructure and instrumentation at U.S. universities. Grants are awarded competitively under the Defense University Research Instrumentation Program to enhance research and educational capabilities. In FY 2026, funding for this line will remain nearly steady, with a minor decrease reflecting ongoing programmatic adjustments aimed at resource efficiency and strategic realignment.

Several Congressionally-directed program increases were included in FY 2024 and FY 2025, targeting specific research areas. These include Intelligent 2D Sensors, Behavioral Health Interventions, Health and Science Multidomain Operations, and Gigahertz-Terahertz Research. These additions are intended to address emerging priorities and expand research in areas of interest to Congress, with funding provided for targeted efforts in each domain.

Budget changes in recent years have included reductions due to Congressional transfers, realignment of funds to other research and development projects, and implementation of efficiency initiatives such as Executive Order 14222. These adjustments are part of a strategic approach to harmonize research efforts, eliminate duplication, and ensure that resources are focused on the most consequential priorities for long-term national security needs.