Ctrl-P to Print
Casimir Effect Enhancement (CEE)
Program Manager and PoC: Dr. Thomas Kenny
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : I’ve never written a DARPA proposal. How should a DARPA proposal be different than a proposal to another agency, such as NSF?
A : NSF has a responsibility to build communities, enhance the public appreciation of science, and to promote the careers of young and underrepresented minority students and faculty, and so NSF proposals generally include sections on outreach, education, and the qualifications of the PI. DARPA is primarily interested in new ideas that can enhance the capabilities of the warfighter. Therefore, a DARPA proposal really needs to emphasize the new idea, the method for demonstrating it, and the potential for breakthrough impact. The background and characteristics of the proposer are useful in the evaluation, but secondary to the ideas and plans. DARPA appreciates that the next really important idea can come from the leaders of the field, or from people entering the field, and from any institution or background. The proposal format guideline includes many pages for the idea, and less than a page for the bio. This is deliberate. Please be sure to emphasize the idea.
Q : What criteria does DARPA use to judge the proposals?
A : The review criteria are described in the BAA, in order of importance. The first criteria is “Ability to meet program goals”. With this in mind, it is very important that proposals explicitly describe how the ideas can address each of the goals, and what the approach and detailed plans are for demonstrating that the goals have been met. Proposers are encouraged to CAREFULLY read the ENTIRE BAA. It is the literal statement of DARPA’s objectives and the BAA process to be used.
Q : Can I submit a full proposal without submitting a proposal abstract?
A : Yes. However, please do consider submission of an abstract. All abstracts are reviewed by the same team that will review the full proposals, and substantial feedback will be provided for all proposers that submit an abstract. None of the evaluation results from the abstract are retained during the full proposal evaluation, so there is no negative effect to be concerned about.