The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), through its Biological Technologies Office (BTO), is issuing a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) titled "Biological Technologies" under announcement number HR001124S0034. This office-wide BAA invites proposals for basic and applied research that aligns with BTO’s mission to leverage the unique properties of biology—adaptation, replication, resilience, and complexity—to enhance U.S. national security. This includes supporting the health and readiness of warfighters, developing bio-based materials and systems, and advancing biotechnological innovations with potential tactical applications.

The purpose of this announcement is to solicit innovative ideas and technologies that address critical areas in biological research relevant to defense. It encompasses a broad range of topics including but not limited to human performance optimization, AI/ML applications in biology, ecosystem and environmental security, novel material and sensor development, biosecurity, and biomedical solutions for injury and disease. DARPA is particularly interested in groundbreaking approaches that significantly exceed the current state of the art and have the potential for transformational impact on national defense capabilities.

Funding is provided through various award instruments such as procurement contracts, cooperative agreements, and other transactions. Proposals can be submitted on a rolling basis through September 18, 2025. An accelerated award option is available for proposals under $2 million that meet specified conditions, allowing awards to be issued within 30 days of selection notification. Proposals are strongly encouraged to submit an abstract for feedback prior to submitting a full proposal.

Eligible applicants include all responsible U.S. and non-U.S. sources. While participation from Small Businesses, Small Disadvantaged Businesses, Minority Institutions, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities is encouraged, there are no specific set-asides. Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs) and University-Affiliated Research Centers (UARCs) may apply but must first discuss eligibility with the contracting officer due to special restrictions.

Proposal evaluation will focus on scientific and technical merit, relevance to DARPA’s mission, and cost and schedule realism. Special notices (SNs) and Pitch Days may be issued under this BAA to target specific topics. Additional support is available through resources like DARPAConnect, the APEX Accelerators program, and Project Spectrum to assist proposers with registration, compliance, and cybersecurity requirements.

Important documents for applicants include required attachments such as abstract and proposal templates, cost templates, and special guidance on classified submissions and accelerated award options. Human and animal research considerations are also detailed for projects involving such components. The announcement emphasizes the importance of understanding and complying with requirements for fundamental and non-fundamental research and includes guidance on how DARPA will assess these categories.