Competition: Small, Lightweight Trace Explosives Detector

This DASA competition seeks novel, lightweight bioassay systems with novel transduction platforms for the detection of trace explosives. The purpose of this competition is to develop innovative platforms for the trace detection of explosives using biological assays. The output will be a small, lightweight platform that can be used for the detection of trace explosives or as a confirmation assay that could be used with other trace explosives detection methods. The size, weight and power (SWaP) and logistic burden of the desired platform will be similar to that of a pocket-sized presumptive test kit. The platform must be capable of multiplex detection of at least three specified targets initially, although the platform should be expandable to detect a wider range of targets (ideally up to 10) in one test in the future. This competition is funded by UK MOD and US DOD This competition is jointly funded by the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) and the US Department of Defense (DOD), the relationship will operate under and be governed by an extant memorandum of understanding (MOU) between both nations. Both the MOD and DOD will have access to proposals submitted under this competition in order to jointly assess which proposals to fund. What innovations are we looking for? A small, lightweight, low SWaP trace detection platform, which together with the consumables and swab-based sample input, will form part of a system that is capable of multiplex detection of at least three explosives targets (TNT, RDX, PETN) from one sample, with the ability to expand the number of available targets (ideally up to 10) in the future. Total funding available The total possible funding available for this competition is £600,000 (exc. VAT) for project(s) of up to 12 months duration. We expect to fund two proposals of up to £300,000 (exc. VAT) each in value. However, DASA reserves the right to fund one outstanding bid up to £600,000 (exc. VAT) that exceeds the requirements of the competition. Proposals are invited for platforms that can be developed through one phase of funding. It is not anticipated that there will be a follow-on phase for this competition. Submission deadline 12:00 Midday on 9 April 2024 (BST) Where do I submit my proposal? Via the DASA Online Submission Service for which you will require an account. Only proposals submitted through the DASA Online Submission Service will be accepted. You must not submit any information classified above Official. If you wish to add supporting information which might be Official-Sensitive or Secret you should contact DASA in advance and we will discuss solutions with you.