[pecase] reasoning AI models: capabilities, limitations, and generalization

The University of Maryland, College Park received a $200,000 Project Grant award from the Office of Naval Research (ONR) under the Basic and Applied Scientific Research program (CFDA 12.300), effective July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2030. This Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE) grant funds research on reasoning artificial intelligence (AI) models, with a specific focus on examining their capabilities, limitations, and generalization properties. The award supports fundamental and applied research that advances naval operational capabilities through investigation of AI systems with potential applications to Navy and Marine Corps technology requirements.

Under the Basic and Applied Scientific Research program, the University of Maryland will conduct merit-based research evaluated through peer and scientific review processes, with performance and outcomes assessed against criteria including scientific and technical merit, naval relevance, investigator qualifications, and cost realism. The five-year project duration aligns with typical ONR grant performance periods and reflects the competitive, fundamental research nature of PECASE awards, which recognize early-career researchers demonstrating exceptional potential in advancing science and technology priorities relevant to national defense.