This is a limited‑submissions program. Following internal nominations, the institution’s Sponsored Programs/Research Administration office sends the InfoReady link to the authorized submitter. Contact your Research Office for internal procedures and deadlines.

All PIs, Co-PIs, and graduate assistants must be U.S. Persons, defined as U.S.-born or U.S.-naturalized citizens. Permanent residents are not eligible.

Eligibility is based on eight years of cumulative professional research experience, including time in academia and industry. The intent is to support early career faculty; applicants slightly over eight years (e.g., ~9 years total) may still be eligible, while individuals with extensive prior experience (e.g., decades in industry) would generally not be considered early career even if new to academia.

Yes. The same early-career eligibility requirement applies to both the Principal Investigator (PI) and Co-Principal Investigators (Co-PIs).

Yes. Indirect costs should be calculated using the institution’s federally approved rate at the time of submission.

Purchase of large capital equipment is not allowed. However, non-capital equipment and supplies necessary for the project are permitted.

The program is funded by the Department of Defense (DoD) however, the awards will be issued by the HSRU Alliance. Please coordinate with your institution’s Sponsored Programs/Research Administration office to determine the appropriate unit to manage the award.

Yes, collaborations with industry partners are allowed. However, it is not recommended that industry representatives serve as Co-PIs, as the leadership program is designed specifically for faculty development.

Reviewers will be nominated by member institutions and selected for subject‑matter expertise in the relevant technical areas. They will follow a standard rubric, observe confidentiality and conflict‑of‑interest policies, and provide recommendations that inform final award decisions.

No. CMMC does not apply to this award. We recommend you consult your institution’s Office of Sponsored Programs/Research Administration and Information Security for any internal or data-specific requirements.

Applicants should follow the page limits and document requirements in the RFP and Supplementary Document. No additional formatting requirements were specified.

Co-PIs are expected to be from HSRU member institutions due to Leadership Program participation. Having a Co-PI is optional.