UMD Awarded Record-setting Research Contract Worth Up to $500M

The University of Maryland received a new contract with a $500 million ceiling from the Department of Defense to support the Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligence and Security (ARLIS) and its mission of tackling complex national security problems using a multidisciplinary approach. It is the largest research contract in UMD’s history.

Located in UMD’s Discovery District, ARLIS is one of 15 designated Department of Defense University Affiliated Research Centers (UARC) around the nation and the only UARC dedicated to intelligence and security. Established in 2018, ARLIS serves as a trusted adviser to the government, providing essential applied research and development for intelligence and security. The initial one-year contract has four option years.

"The work happening within ARLIS is exciting and focused on leveraging technology and science to meet intelligence and security challenges with a human-centered focus,” said Milancy D. Harris, acting under secretary of defense for intelligence and security. “ARLIS is uniquely qualified to evolve our capabilities in this area and to strengthen our national security in innovative ways.”

ARLIS bridges social and technical sciences to address pressing national security needs in the areas of cognitive security, supply chains, technology engagement and insider risk. ARLIS is also capable of addressing other emerging areas of interest to support defense department requirements.

“ARLIS is a jewel in the University of Maryland’s research enterprise. We are so grateful to continue this collaboration with the Department of Defense, which has already yielded so many opportunities for faculty and students,” said Darryll J. Pines, president of the University of Maryland. “We’re excited to build upon ARLIS’ demonstrated success of combining technical expertise with human understanding to bolster our nation’s security.”