CHEMICAL/BIOLOGICAL DEFENSE (BASIC RESEARCH)

Abstract

This project (CB1) supports basic research efforts in fundamental science phenomenology to include: life sciences; physical sciences; environmental sciences; mathematics; psychology and social sciences; and engineering. The objective of the Basic Research program is to successfully support the advancement of fundamental knowledge and understanding of the sciences with an emphasis on exploring new and innovative research for Chemical and Biological (CB) Defense. It includes new study areas, such as: nanoscale sciences; chemical, biological, and bio-inspired sciences; surface and signature sciences (with an emphasis on non-traditional agents (NTAs); and information sciences. The aim is to promote innovative concepts and directions of research, which could lead to transformational capabilities to enhance the performance and ensure the safety of the Warfighter. Research in nanoscale sciences (nanoelectromechanical systems, molecular motors, and nanometer imaging) may bring about improvements in protection, decontamination and other core CB defense fields. Research in chemical, biological & bio-inspired sciences includes research in concepts such as synthetic biology, biomimetics, and other emerging areas of science to build a foundation for developing novel smart materials. This will combine multiple functionalities into a common autonomous unit or network. Surface and signature sciences focuses on the study of physical and chemical properties, especially with regard to NTAs, that seek to improve physical capabilities such as detection and decontamination. Informational Sciences includes research in understanding cognitive and physiological effects on human decision-making, behavior and performance, and modeling and simulation of CB threats. Breakthroughs and advances in functional capabilities gained from these scientific disciplines could impact the entire chemical and biological defense science and technology program. Basic research activities described in this budget justification leverage existing research programs and activities within the DoD and other government agencies to accelerate transformational breakthroughs, which may be transitioned to applied research or advanced development initiatives. Due to the exploratory, academic, and theoretical nature of basic research efforts, projects described in this justification typically have a duration period, from conception to completion, of three to five years. Promising basic research efforts will be further exploited for their application to chemical and biological defense in Budget Activity 2 (Applied Science). The basic research program promotes cross-pollination between government and academia, as well as sponsors world class scientists while promoting the development of young researchers.

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Document Details

Document Type
Project
Publication Date
Oct 01, 2011
Source ID
CB1_0601384BP_1_0400_PB_2011

Tags

Readers

  • Critical Infrastructure Protection in CBRN and WMD Threats.
  • Defense Technology Research and Development.
  • Military Science and Technology Research and Modernization.

Technology Areas

  • Biotechnology
  • Microelectronics

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