REU site: safe, efficient, and collaborative intelligence for autonomous systems

The National Science Foundation Division of Engineering Education and Centers awarded Baylor University $465,000 on October 1, 2026, under the Engineering program (CFDA 47.041) to operate a three-year Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Site titled "Safe, Efficient, and Collaborative Intelligence for Autonomous Systems" (SECIAS).

The site will engage ten undergraduate students each year in a ten-week summer research experience centered on autonomous systems innovation. Students will conduct faculty-mentored research projects spanning artificial intelligence and machine learning, multi-agent coordination, neuromorphic and embedded computing, and formal verification and explainable AI applied to autonomous technologies including drones, self-driving vehicles, and robotic systems. The program incorporates hands-on research in state-of-the-art laboratories, professional development, and K–12 outreach, with projects drawing from mechanical engineering, electrical and computer engineering, and computer science disciplines.

Period of performance runs from October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2029, with place of performance in Robinson, Texas.

Abstract

This three-year REU site, ?safe, efficient, and collaborative intelligence for autonomous systems? (secias)?, hosted at baylor university, advances research and education at the frontier of intelligent autonomous systems. Autonomous technologies ? Including drones, self-driving vehicles, and robotic systems ? Are rapidly reshaping transportation, logistics, disaster response, and national defense, with far-reaching implications for public safety, economic competitiveness, and national security. By engaging ten undergraduate students each year in a ten-week summer research experience, this REU site will promote the progress of science in autonomous systems while training the next generation of engineers and computer scientists needed to address these challenges. Students will work on projects spanning mechanical engineering, electrical and computer engineering, and computer science, guided by experienced faculty mentors. Through hands-on research, professional development, and k?12 outreach, participants will gain the skills and confidence to pursue graduate study and stem careers ? Strengthening the national workforce and advancing autonomous technologies that benefit society. The secias REU site at baylor university is to advance the science and engineering of autonomous systems through a ten-week summer program of highly innovative, faculty-mentored research projects. REU students will conduct research on artificial intelligence and machine learning, multi-agent coordination, neuromorphic and embedded computing, and formal verification and explainable AI in the context of autonomous systems innovation. Faculty mentors will carefully select research projects and develop appropriately scoped projects for undergraduates, supported by baylor's state-of-the-art laboratories and ongoing federally and industry-funded research programs. Participants will develop analytical, problem-solving, and collaboration skills required for advancing the next generation of intelligent autonomous systems. This REU program will provide undergraduate students with meaningful research experiences and a clear pathway toward graduate study and technical careers in AI-driven autonomy. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.- subawards are not planned for this award.