CENTER OF EXCELLENCE (COE): Extreme Neuromorphic Materials and Computing

Background
This Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) describes a newly proposed initiative of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) concerning the University Center of Excellence (COE) in “Extreme Neuromorphic Materials and Computing.” The University COE is defined as a joint effort among Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR), Air Force Research Laboratory Technology Directorates (AFRL TDs), and an outstanding university team to perform high-priority collaborative research which addresses research objectives of the United States Air Force (USAF) and the United States Space Force (USSF). The proposed COE is a joint project between AFOSR, AFRL Information Directorate (AFRL/RI), and AFRL Materials and Manufacturing Directorate (AFRL/RX).

Grant Details
The Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) seeks unclassified proposals from educational institutions in the United States for the University Center of Excellence (COE) in “Extreme Neuromorphic Materials and Computing.” The University COE is defined as a joint effort among AFOSR, Air Force Research Laboratory Technology Directorates (AFRL TDs), and an outstanding university or team of universities to perform high-priority collaborative research. The proposed COE is anticipated to extend the research interests and capabilities of AFRL on the subject area and provide opportunities for a new generation of US scientists and engineers to address United States Air Force (USAF) and United States Space Force (USSF) research needs. Proposals must not contain any proprietary information. AFOSR anticipates making at least one award of up to $1,000,000 per year per award, for a maximum of five years, under this competition for a team proposal with no more than five universities.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include qualified and responsible United States educational institutions. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU/MI), Tribal College and University Applicants are encouraged. Ineligible entities include foreign entities, individuals, for-profit organizations, non-profit organizations, small businesses, state governments, local governments, independent school districts, public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities, Native American tribal organizations other than Federally recognized tribal governments, U.S. territories or possessions.

Period of Performance
The base period is for three years, which a consortium of AFOSR, AFRL/RI, and AFRL/RX intends to incrementally fund, followed by an option to extend an additional two years provided the COE passes a midterm review.

Grant Value
AFOSR anticipates making at least one grant award of up to $1,000,000 per year per award, for a maximum of five years.