Project Grant 2548409

The National Science Foundation's Division of Engineering Education and Centers (CFDA 47.041) awarded the University of Oklahoma a $456,856 Project Grant on September 15, 2026, to establish and operate a Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Site focused on Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) with real-world applications. The three-year award, extending through August 31, 2029, will provide a 10-week summer research experience annually for ten undergraduate students, emphasizing hands-on research in UAS sensor technology for navigation and control, deployable systems development, battery performance testing under extreme conditions, gas leak detection, airborne particulate monitoring, and computational tools for identifying weaknesses in UAS platforms. The program prioritizes workforce development by recruiting students from underrepresented populations in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), including first-generation college students, to prepare future leaders in the growing UAS industry.

Through mentoring, technical training, and professional skill development in a collaborative learning environment, the REU Site will equip participants with the expertise needed for careers in engineering and UAS research while addressing the Nation's need for advanced capabilities in autonomous systems operations. The program aligns with broader national priorities to maintain U.S. competitiveness in UAS technology and infrastructure resilience by developing a skilled workforce capable of designing and deploying next-generation autonomous systems for military, commercial, and civilian applications.