Deadline: 06-Nov-2026
The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has announced the Fiscal Year 2027 Defense University Research Instrumentation Program (DURIP) to strengthen research and education capabilities at accredited U.S. higher education institutions. The programme provides funding for the acquisition of research equipment and instrumentation that supports scientific research and the education of future scientists and engineers in areas critical to national defense.
Defense University Research Instrumentation Program (DURIP) FY 2027
The Defense University Research Instrumentation Program (DURIP) provides funding to accredited U.S. colleges and universities for the purchase of research equipment and instrumentation that enhances research capacity and supports education in disciplines important to national defense. The programme aims to improve institutional research infrastructure while advancing innovation in science, technology, engineering, and related research fields.
Programme Objectives
The programme is designed to strengthen research and education capabilities within U.S. higher education institutions.
Its objectives include:
- Enhancing university research infrastructure.
- Supporting the acquisition of advanced research equipment.
- Strengthening scientific and engineering research.
- Improving education and training for future scientists and engineers.
- Advancing research relevant to national defense.
- Building long-term institutional research capacity.
Priority Areas
The programme supports investments in:
- Scientific research.
- Engineering research.
- Research infrastructure.
- Advanced research instrumentation.
- Science and technology.
- Research and development.
- National defense research.
- Higher education research capacity.
- Laboratory modernization.
- Research equipment acquisition.
Eligible Activities
Funding supports the acquisition of research equipment and instrumentation that:
- Strengthens institutional research capabilities.
- Supports scientific research.
- Enhances engineering research.
- Improves research infrastructure.
- Contributes to the education and training of scientists and engineers.
- Advances research in areas important to U.S. national defense.
The programme does not fund general operating expenses or unrelated institutional activities.
Funding Available
The programme provides:
- Total estimated funding: USD 28 million
- Maximum award: USD 7 million
- Minimum award: USD 50,000
Funding is available under the Science and Technology and Research and Development categories.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include accredited U.S. institutions of higher education.
Applicants may include:
- Public colleges and universities.
- State-controlled institutions of higher education.
- Private institutions of higher education.
For-profit organizations are not eligible to receive DURIP funding.
Evaluation Focus
Applications should demonstrate how the proposed equipment or instrumentation will:
- Improve institutional research capabilities.
- Support high-quality scientific and engineering research.
- Enhance education and training opportunities.
- Advance research in areas relevant to national defense.
- Provide long-term value to the institution’s research programs.
Why This Programme Matters
Modern research equipment is essential for conducting cutting-edge scientific research and preparing the next generation of researchers.
The programme helps institutions:
- Modernize research laboratories.
- Expand research capabilities.
- Strengthen scientific innovation.
- Improve research competitiveness.
- Support workforce development in science and engineering.
- Contribute to national defense research priorities.
How to Apply
Eligible institutions should:
- Confirm institutional eligibility.
- Identify research equipment or instrumentation needs.
- Prepare a proposal explaining how the equipment will strengthen research and education.
- Demonstrate the relevance of the proposed equipment to national defense research.
- Develop a detailed project budget.
- Submit the completed application according to the programme requirements.
Application Tips
- Clearly explain why the requested equipment is needed.
- Demonstrate how the equipment will benefit multiple research projects or users.
- Highlight the impact on education and workforce development.
- Explain the contribution to national defense research priorities.
- Present a realistic budget and implementation plan.
- Show the institution’s capacity to effectively manage and utilize the equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply?
Accredited public, state-controlled, and private U.S. institutions of higher education.
What does the programme fund?
The acquisition of research equipment and instrumentation that strengthens scientific and engineering research capabilities.
How much funding is available?
The programme has an estimated total funding of USD 28 million, with awards ranging from USD 50,000 to USD 7 million.
Are for-profit organizations eligible?
No. For-profit organizations are not eligible for DURIP funding.
What fields does the programme support?
The programme supports research in science, technology, engineering, and other disciplines important to national defense.
What is the primary objective of DURIP?
The primary objective is to improve research infrastructure and strengthen the education and training of scientists and engineers working in areas relevant to national defense.
Conclusion
The Fiscal Year 2027 Defense University Research Instrumentation Program (DURIP) offers significant funding to help accredited U.S. higher education institutions acquire advanced research equipment and instrumentation. By strengthening research infrastructure and supporting education in science and engineering, the programme contributes to innovation and advances research that supports national defense priorities.
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