Chemical, Biological, Radiation, Nuclear Defense

Breakthroughs in the science of programmable gene expression inspired DARPA to establish the PReemptive Expression of Protective Alleles and Response Elements (PREPARE) program with the goal of delivering powerful new defenses against public health and national security threats. DARPA has now selected five teams to develop a range of new medical interventions that temporarily and reversibly modulate the expression of protective genes to guard against acute threats from influenza and ionizing radiation, which could be encountered naturally, occupationally, or through a national security event.

Dr. Kerri Dugan joined DARPA as the deputy director of the Biological Technologies Office in August 2019.

This announcement seeks revolutionary research ideas for topics not being addressed by ongoing BTO programs or other published solicitations.