Selective Harnessing of Intrinsic Neuroplasticity Engineering (SHINE)

The DARPA Defense Sciences Office is issuing a Disruption Opportunity (DO) titled “Selective Harnessing of Intrinsic Neuroplasticity Engineering (SHINE).” The program seeks innovative basic or applied research to create technologies that can induce neuroplasticity selectively within predefined brain circuits, minimizing off‑target effects. Two parallel technical tracks are offered: Track A (accelerated translation) for near‑term, clinically‑ready prototypes, and Track B (foundational development) for high‑risk, proof‑of‑concept platforms. Awards are made via Other Transaction (OT) Prototype Agreements, capped at $2 M per award, with an 18‑month performance period starting January 2027. Key milestones include baseline validation (Month 3), target‑engagement verification (Month 9), circuit‑selective neuroplasticity demonstration (Month 12), and final prototype delivery (Month 18). Proposals must be unclassified, address either Track A or B (or both in separate submissions), and include detailed quantitative success criteria, risk mitigation, and compliance with CMMC Level 1. • Funding: up to $2 M per award (OT Prototype Agreement) • Duration: 18 months, start Jan 2027 • Tracks: A – clinical‑ready prototype; B – foundational lab‑scale proof‑of‑concept • Key milestones at months 3, 6, 9, 12, 18 with site‑visit at month 8‑10 • Eligibility: U.S. entities able to meet CMMC Level 1; FFRDC/UARC participation limited to subcontractor role • Submission deadline: Oct 9, 2026 (4 pm ET); questions due Oct 2, 2026 • Award decision expected by Dec 11, 2026