Federal Grant Award Summary

The Pennsylvania State University received a $385,625 CAREER (Faculty Early Career Development) award from the National Science Foundation's Division of Information and Intelligent Systems under the Computer and Information Science and Engineering program (CFDA 47.070), effective July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2031. The project develops a comprehensive operating system architecture that integrates multiple design approaches to enhance performance, scalability, security, and reliability in modern multicore computing environments. The research addresses fundamental limitations in legacy operating system designs by separating critical system services from the kernel while maintaining software and hardware compatibility.

The deliverables encompass three interconnected research thrusts: development of a safe and scalable multiprocessor microkernel using memory-safe programming methods; integration of critical services and device drivers into isolated user-space servers; and investigation of system hardening, fault isolation, and real-world application support. The award produces an open-source research platform and infrastructure supporting reproducible systems research and education. Educational activities integrated throughout the project aim to expand participation in computer systems research and help students develop competencies in secure software design and testing methodologies.