Federal Grant Award Summary

The University of Maryland, College Park received a $400,000 project grant from the National Science Foundation's Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE) program (CFDA 47.070), awarded February 1, 2026, with a completion date of January 31, 2030. This collaborative research initiative focuses on developing ultra-wideband (UWB) antenna array technology and associated adaptation algorithms for wireless communications operating across the 7-24 GHz upper mid-band spectrum. The primary deliverables include the design and development of a single integrated wideband antenna array that eliminates the need for multiple dedicated narrowband arrays, the creation of new mathematical frameworks for beamforming and signal processing suited to UWB operations, and the advancement of true time delay array technology to replace conventional phase-shift techniques. These research outputs are intended to enhance spectrum efficiency, reduce transmitted power requirements, extend wireless link ranges, and enable advanced sensing capabilities alongside communication functions.

The research addresses critical national technology competitiveness objectives by providing solutions for efficient deployment of adaptive antenna arrays at both base stations and user locations. The project deliverables will generate foundational knowledge, technical innovations, and mathematical tools necessary for the telecommunications industry to leverage newly available FCC spectrum more effectively, thereby supporting increased data rate requirements for American consumers and advancing U.S. wireless technology capabilities.