Centers of Excellence Selection Process
The DHS Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) follows a well-established and rigorous proposal evaluation process to award Centers of Excellence (COEs). First, DHS subject matter experts identify priority research areas and research questions to be the focus of a COE. These areas and questions are published in a funding opportunity announcement (FOA) on www.grants.gov, as required by Federal regulations. Second, a panel of non-DHS subject matter experts provides a peer review of eligible proposals received in response to the FOA. This review ensures the proposed research is of the highest quality in order to provide reliable results. Third, a team of internal reviewers evaluates proposals that have passed peer review to ensure the research matches DHS priority needs. Finally, senior S&T staff and DHS subject matter experts make site visits to top-rated institution and then make recommendations to the Under Secretary for Science and Technology, who selects the performers for new COEs.
All DHS COEs are strongly encouraged to hold open competitions for sub-contracts when new research opportunities arise and to develop new partnerships with other researchers. Check the Funding Opportunities page often for more information.
Questions? Contact us!