The Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Dahlgren Division has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA), titled the Naval Engineering Education Consortium (NEEC) for Fiscal Year 2025. This initiative seeks innovative research proposals from eligible academic institutions to advance naval engineering and education. The NEEC program encourages collaboration between academia and Naval Warfare Centers to address technical challenges and promote workforce development.

Research topics include developing advanced biomarker-based tools for predicting disease contagiousness using non-invasive methods, with a focus on technologies that are compact, portable, and capable of producing rapid results. Solutions must exhibit high sensitivity and meet technical criteria such as low power usage, scalability, and resilience across various biological agents. Proposals must outline how results will transition to naval applications and engage students in the research process to support workforce readiness.

The BAA anticipates funding awards between $100,000 and $400,000 for a base year, with optional two-year extensions that could total up to $1.2 million over three years. Awards will be issued as grants governed by Department of Defense (DoD) and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) financial assistance terms. All research must adhere to U.S. export control laws, and participating students must be U.S. citizens eligible for security clearances.

Eligible applicants include colleges and universities, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Minority Institutions (MIs), although no set-asides are specified. Proposals must comply with submission requirements, including registration with the System for Award Management (SAM) and Grants.gov. Key proposal elements include a technical plan, public abstract, detailed budget justification, and documentation of faculty and student qualifications. Proposals are capped at 10 pages, excluding cover pages and resumes.

Proposals will be evaluated based on scientific merit, naval relevance, proposer capabilities, and the quality of student involvement. Cost realism and reasonableness are also considered. Submission deadlines are strict, with the next due date set for January 6, 2025, at 12:01 p.m. EST.

Award notices will be provided in writing, and successful applicants must adhere to DoD policies, including reporting requirements and cybersecurity standards. Opportunities for program reviews and collaboration with Naval Surface Warfare Centers are integral to this program. The initiative emphasizes advancing the state of naval technology while fostering academic partnerships and student development.