Federal Grant Award Summary

Rider University received a $217,779 Project Grant from the National Science Foundation's Computer and Information Science and Engineering program (CFDA 47.070), awarded October 1, 2026, with completion targeted for September 30, 2029. The award supports development of a curriculum-based undergraduate research experience program focused on artificial intelligence (AI) security and privacy across multiple partner institutions. The university will design, implement, and evaluate flexible educational modules—including labs, tutorials, assignments, and research activities—covering computer vision, speech and audio, and network systems. These modules will address vulnerabilities across the AI lifecycle and integrate seamlessly into existing undergraduate computing courses while aligning with the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) Cybersecurity Workforce Framework to build career-relevant competencies.

Beyond curriculum development, the research team will study pedagogical approaches that embed research into coursework, including project-based and competition-based learning models, and assess their effects on student outcomes. The deliverables include reusable instructional materials designed for adoption across institutions and courses, supporting workforce development in secure and responsible AI deployment. This collaborative effort bridges classroom learning with real-world research experiences while developing professional skills such as communication, teamwork, and leadership among undergraduate computing students.