Through collaborations between ORAU and ORAU-Member Universities, ORAU-Directed Research and Development (ODRD) harnesses innovation to strengthen and expand the scientific and technical capabilities of ORAU programs; enhance ORAU’s ability to address current and future customer needs; and supports university-engaged, applied research that enhances customer solutions.  

AU is soliciting and selecting concepts to be considered for this program. Proposed concepts must align with at least one of the ORAU Core capability areas and focus on improving service to an ORAU customer (Click here to view the concept areas). The program consists of three phases:

• Concept Submissions
• Phase 1 funds a meeting to discuss the proposed project, to identify possible funding sources and outline roles and responsibilities.
• Phase 2 funds a joint project producing "proof-of-concept"-type results leading to a white paper, conference presentation, and/or a technical publication with a clear proposal concept and identification of target funding sources.
• Phase 3 funds preparation of a major joint proposal and results in submission of an external collaborative proposal.

We are seeking brief concepts (limited to two paragraphs) that align with ORAU’s core capability areas (see page one of the ODRD Guidance document). Concepts will be reviewed/vetted internally to ensure that they meet this requirement. Concepts that do not align with ORAU’s core capability areas will not be submitted.