Network of optimal dynamic energy signatures (nodes)

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency awarded an Other Transaction IDV to Michigan State University for the Network of Optimal Dynamic Energy Signatures (NODES) program on February 23, 2026, with a ceiling value of $1,296,277. Other Transactions operate outside the Federal Acquisition Regulation and provide DARPA flexibility in structuring prototype and advanced research agreements.

Michigan State University, a public land-grant research institution, brings specialized capabilities in advanced energy systems research and analysis. The university operates as a prime research performer across fundamental science, applied problem-solving, and technical services, with particular strength in laboratory infrastructure and faculty expertise across defense-relevant domains including materials science, quantum systems, and signal processing.

The NODES program supports DARPA's mission to develop and demonstrate novel approaches to dynamic energy signature characterization and optimization. MSU's research portfolio includes recent work funded by the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy on plant genetic engineering and soil systems optimization, photoacoustic-Brillouin microscopy development, and quantum systems research sponsored by the Office of Naval Research, positioning the university to execute advanced technical research under this vehicle.

MSU holds additional research infrastructure and specialized capabilities supporting federal advanced research: recent grants include $1.81 million for NMR spectrometer modernization, $248.2 thousand for millimeter-wave semiconductor characterization, and $1.82 million as lead on plasma turbulence modeling. The university operates minimal subcontractor engagement on its prime contracts, building delivery teams internally through faculty and student participation.