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13 June 2008
Center of Excellence Designations:
Jackson State University
Northeastern University
Stevens Institute of Technology
University of Arizona
University of Hawaii
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
University of Rhode Island
University of Texas at El Paso
[Federal Register: June 13, 2008 (Volume 73, Number 115)]
[Notices]
[Page 33827-33828]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr13jn08-68]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
Office of the Secretary
Notice Designating Jackson State University as a DHS Center of
Excellence for Natural Disasters, Coastal Infrastructure and Emergency
Management as Education Lead Institution
AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Department of Homeland Security.
ACTION: Notice.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The Department of Homeland Security has designated Jackson
State University as a DHS Center of Excellence for Natural Disasters,
Coastal Infrastructure and Emergency Management, Education Lead
Institution.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Bryan Roberts, Program Manager,
University Programs, Science and Technology Directorate, Department of
Homeland Security, Washington, DC 20528; telephone 202-254-5738,
facsimile 202-254-6179; e-mail bryan.roberts@dhs.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
Section 308 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002, Public Law 107-
296, (the ``Homeland Security Act''), as amended by the Consolidated
Appropriations Resolution 2003, Public Law 108-7, and as codified in
Title 6 of the United States Code Chapter I Subchapter III section
188(b)(2) [6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)], directs the Department of Homeland
Security (``Department'') to sponsor extramural research, development,
demonstration, testing and evaluation programs relating to homeland
security. As part of this program, the Department has established a
coordinated system of university-based centers for homeland security
(the ``Centers'').
The Centers are envisioned to be an integral component of the
Department's capability to anticipate, prevent, respond to, and recover
from terrorist attacks. The Centers will leverage multidisciplinary
capabilities and fill gaps in current knowledge.
Title 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) lists fourteen areas of substantive
expertise that, if demonstrated, might qualify universities for
designation as university-based centers. The listed areas of expertise
include: (1) The training of first responders; (2) responding to
incidents involving weapons of mass destruction and biological warfare;
(3) emergency and diagnostic medical services; (4) chemical,
biological, radiological and nuclear countermeasures or detection; (5)
animal and plant health and diagnostics; (6) food safety; (7) water and
wastewater operations; (8) port and waterway security; (9) multi-modal
transportation; (10) information security and information engineering;
(11) engineering; (12) educational outreach and technical assistance;
(13) border and transportation security; and (14) the public policy
implications and public dissemination of homeland security relevant
research and development. However, the list is not exclusive. 6 U.S.C.
188(b)(2)(C) gives the Secretary discretion to except certain criteria
specified in 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) and consider additional criteria
beyond those specified in 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) in selecting
universities for this program, as long as the Department issues a
Federal Register notice explaining the criteria used for the
designation.
Criteria
In response to Congressional direction contained in the Conference
Report for the Fiscal Year 2007 Department of Homeland Security
Appropriations Act, the DHS Under Secretary for Science and Technology
developed a plan in November 2006 to establish new DHS Centers of
Excellence in high priority science and technology areas which aligned
to the DHS Science and Technology Directorate's research portfolios and
for which DHS determined there were significant gaps in scientific
understanding and technological development. These areas included: 1.
Natural Disasters, Coastal Infrastructure and Emergency Management, 2.
Explosives Detection, Mitigation and Response, 3. Maritime, Island and
Remote Environment Security, and 4. Border Security and Immigration.
Research in these areas will contribute significantly to the
Department's ability to enhance homeland security and the safety of our
citizens from both natural and man-made threats.
The criteria for designation for this new Center of Excellence
(COE) for Natural Disasters, Coastal Infrastructure and Emergency
Management is demonstrated expertise in conducting fundamental research
into the issues and challenges in predicting, preparing for, preventing
damages from, responding to, and recovering from natural disasters in
coastal areas. The Center will develop research and education programs
to improve understanding of, preparation for, and responses to natural
disasters, with a particular emphasis on flooding and hurricanes. The
Center will align with DHS S&T's Infrastructure and Geophysical
Division and will develop approaches and train future professionals to
reduce serious threats to American life and property for many years.
Specifically, the Center will conduct basic and transformational
research on coastal issues in the following areas: (1) Natural hazards
of the coastal region (e.g., flooding from hurricanes or storm surges);
(2) Innovative and comprehensive regional flood water management,
including technical approaches and options to prevent damages from,
mitigate, and recover from flooding incidents, and development of
better understanding of land-water interactions; (3) Approaches to
safeguarding public-sector coastal infrastructure and meeting other
public-sector needs in crises; and (4) Coastal regional planning,
governance, resilience, and unified comprehensive risk-based decision
support tools, particularly for natural disasters warranting emergency
measures. These tools include social, political, and economic studies
on the public sector workforce and on new networks, institutions, or
associations that might be devised as test beds to be effective in the
coastal region, tailored to the region's socio-economic, governance,
and geographic features.
Announcement of Funding Opportunities and Competition
In February 2007, the Department established a competitive process
and requested white papers and proposals from universities that wished
to be designated as DHS Centers of Excellence in: 1. Natural Disasters,
Coastal Infrastructure and Emergency Management, 2. Explosives
Detection, Mitigation and Response, 3. Maritime, Island and Remote
Environment Security, or 4. Border Security and Immigration. The
funding opportunity announcements for these four Centers of
[[Page 33828]]
Excellence were published at http://www.grants.gov on February 4, 2007,
as required by the Office of Management and Budget. In the area of
Natural Disasters, Coastal Infrastructure and Emergency Management, DHS
received 31 Natural Disasters white papers proposals and evaluated them
through a peer-review panel process that included scientific expertise
from the federal government, peer-institutional faculty, and the
private sector. Following the white paper review, DHS received 13 full
proposals by the closing date of July 30, 2007. The 13 full proposals
were reviewed by subject matter experts external to DHS S&T. Eight full
proposals were referred to an internal review panel of S&T subject
matter experts for evaluation, who recommended site visits at four
sites. Based on information collected on these site visits, DHS
selected Jackson State University to be the Education Lead Institution
for the Natural Disasters, Coastal Infrastructure and Emergency
Management Center of Excellence, in partnership with the University of
North Carolina at Chapel Hill (the Research Lead), Louisiana State
University and other affiliates.
Jackson State University and its partners will conduct research and
education on natural hazards--particularly flood and hurricane
modeling, natural and infrastructure resilience, physical testing to
extend new theoretical and modeling developments, community
preparedness and regional governance and natural disaster-related
education, including the development and use of capabilities at
minority-serving institutions.
This team of institutions is uniquely well equipped and located to
address issues of hurricane and flood prediction, preparedness,
response and recovery. They will become an intrinsic part of the DHS
science and technology portfolio, working closely with DHS and other
federal, state and local governments to reduce potential damages from
floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters.
Jay M. Cohen,
Under Secretary for Science and Technology, Department of Homeland
Security.
[FR Doc. E8-13296 Filed 6-12-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4410-10-P
[Federal Register: June 13, 2008 (Volume 73, Number 115)]
[Notices]
[Page 33828-33829]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr13jn08-69]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
Office of the Secretary
Notice Designating the Northeastern University as a DHS Center of
Excellence for Explosives Detection Mitigation and Response as Research
Lead Institution
AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Department of Homeland Security.
ACTION: Notice.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The Department of Homeland Security has designated the
Northeastern University as a DHS Center of Excellence for Explosives
Detection Mitigation and Response, Research Lead Institution.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Douglas Bauer, Program Manager,
University Programs, Science and Technology Directorate, Department of
Homeland Security, Washington, DC 20528; telephone 202-254-6040,
facsimile 202-254-6179; e-mail doug.bauer@dhs.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
Section 308 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002, Public Law 107-
296, (the ``Homeland Security Act''), as amended by the Consolidated
Appropriations Resolution 2003, Public Law 108-7, and as codified in
Title 6 of the United States Code Chapter I Subchapter III Section
188(b)(2) [6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)], directs the Department of Homeland
Security (``Department'') to sponsor extramural research, development,
demonstration, testing and evaluation programs relating to homeland
security. As part of this program, the Department has established a
coordinated system of university-based centers for homeland security
(the ``Centers'').
The Centers are envisioned to be an integral component of the
Department's capability to anticipate, prevent, respond to, and recover
from terrorist attacks. The Centers will leverage multidisciplinary
capabilities and fill gaps in current knowledge.
Title 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) lists fourteen areas of substantive
expertise that, if demonstrated, might qualify universities for
designation as university-based centers. The listed areas of expertise
include: (1) The training of first responders; (2) responding to
incidents involving weapons of mass destruction and biological warfare;
(3) emergency and diagnostic medical services; (4) chemical,
biological, radiological and nuclear countermeasures or detection; (5)
animal and plant health and diagnostics; (6) food safety; (7) water and
wastewater operations; (8) port and waterway security; (9) multi-modal
transportation; (10) information security and information engineering;
(11) engineering; (12) educational outreach and technical assistance;
(13) border and transportation security; and (14) the public policy
implications and public dissemination of homeland security relevant
research and development. However, the list is not exclusive. 6 U.S.C.
188(b)(2)(C) gives the Secretary discretion to except certain criteria
specified in 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) and consider additional criteria
beyond those specified in 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) in selecting
universities for this program, as long as the Department issues a
Federal Register notice explaining the criteria used for the
designation.
Criteria
In response to Congressional direction contained in the Conference
Report for the Fiscal Year 2007 Department of Homeland Security
Appropriations Act, the DHS Under Secretary for Science and Technology
developed a plan in November 2006 to establish new DHS Centers of
Excellence in high priority science and technology areas which aligned
to the DHS Science and Technology Directorate's research portfolios and
for which DHS determined there were significant gaps in scientific
understanding and technological development. These areas included: (1)
Natural Disasters, Coastal Infrastructure and Emergency Management, (2)
Explosives Detection, Mitigation and Response, (3) Maritime, Island and
Remote Environment Security, and (4) Border Security and Immigration.
Research in these areas will contribute significantly to the
Department's ability to enhance homeland security and the safety of our
citizens from both natural and man-made threats.
The criteria for designation for this new Center of Excellence for
Explosives Detection Mitigation and Response (EDMR)is demonstrated
expertise in conducting fundamental research in explosives-related
science and engineering. S&T is establishing the EDMR COE to conduct
research to enhance the Nation's technical capabilities to detect,
prepare for, prevent damages from, respond to, and recover from
terrorist attacks involving explosives. The EDMR COE will collaborate
closely with the DHS/Science and Technology (S&T) Directorate's
Explosives Division, which manages a full-spectrum research and
[[Page 33829]]
development (R&D) program from fundamental research to advanced
technologies. The EDMR COE will provide enabling basic research that
will advance the technical tools and information that S&T's customers
will need in the future. The EDMR COE will develop relevant educational
curricula for both matriculated students and career professionals. The
EDMR COE also will participate in S&T's University Network, a
consortium of COEs that share resources and data and collaborate on
research projects to provide cost-effective results to support DHS's
mission.
Announcement of Funding Opportunities and Competition
In February 2007, the Department established a competitive process
and requested white papers and proposals from universities that wished
to be designated as DHS Centers of Excellence in: (1) Explosives
Detection Mitigation and Response, (2) Explosives Detection, Mitigation
and Response, (3) Maritime, Island and Remote Environment Security, or
(4) Border Security and Immigration. The funding opportunity
announcements for these four Centers of Excellence were published at
http://www.grants.gov on February 4, 2007, as required by the Office of
Management and Budget. In the area of Explosives Detection Mitigation
and Response, DHS received 19 white papers and evaluated them through a
peer-review panel process that included scientific expertise from the
federal government, peer-institutional faculty, and the private sector.
Following the white paper review, DHS received 5 full proposals by the
closing date of July 30, 2007. The 5 full proposals were reviewed by
subject matter experts external to DHS S&T. All 5 full proposals were
referred to an internal review panel of S&T subject matter experts for
evaluation, who recommended site visits at 3 sites. Based on
information collected on these site visits, DHS selected Northeastern
University to be the Research Lead Institution for the Explosives
Detection Mitigation and Response Center of Excellence, in partnership
with the University of Rhode Island (the Education Lead), New Mexico
Institute of Mining and Technology and other affiliated universities.
Northeastern University and its partners will conduct basic and
transformational research and develop educational programs on
explosives-related issues including explosives properties, formulation,
and characterization; detection of explosives and explosive devices;
sensor materials; unconventional approaches to identify threats, and
other countermeasures. These programs will include the development and
use of explosives research and educational capabilities at minority-
serving institutions.
This team of institutions will become an intrinsic part of the DHS
science and technology portfolio, working closely with DHS and other
federal, state and local governments to reduce potential damages from
floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters.
Jay M. Cohen,
Under Secretary for Science and Technology, Department of Homeland
Security.
[FR Doc. E8-13287 Filed 6-12-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4410-10-P
[Federal Register: June 13, 2008 (Volume 73, Number 115)]
[Notices]
[Page 33829-33830]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr13jn08-70]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
Office of the Secretary
Notice Designating Stevens Institute of Technology as a DHS
Center of Excellence for the Study of Maritime, Island and Extreme/
Remote Environment Security as Research Co-Lead Institution
AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Department of Homeland Security.
ACTION: Notice.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The Department of Homeland Security has designated Stevens
Institute of Technology as a DHS Center of Excellence for the Study of
Maritime, Island and Extreme/Remote Environment Security, Research Co-
Lead Institution.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tiffany Lightbourn, Program Manager,
University Programs, Science and Technology Directorate, Department of
Homeland Security, Washington, DC 20528; telephone 202-254-5843,
facsimile 202-254-6179; e-mail tiffany.lightbourn@dhs.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
Section 308 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002, Public Law 107-
296, (the ``Homeland Security Act''), as amended by the Consolidated
Appropriations Resolution 2003, Public Law 108-7, and as codified in
Title 6 of the United States Code Chapter I Subchapter III Section
188(b)(2) [6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)], directs the Department of Homeland
Security (``Department'') to sponsor extramural research, development,
demonstration, testing and evaluation programs relating to homeland
security. As part of this program, the Department has established a
coordinated system of university-based centers for homeland security
(the ``Centers'').
The Centers are envisioned to be an integral component of the
Department's capability to anticipate, prevent, respond to, and recover
from terrorist attacks. The Centers will leverage multidisciplinary
capabilities and fill gaps in current knowledge.
Title 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) lists fourteen areas of substantive
expertise that, if demonstrated, might qualify universities for
designation as university-based centers. The listed areas of expertise
include: (1) The training of first responders; (2) responding to
incidents involving weapons of mass destruction and biological warfare;
(3) emergency and diagnostic medical services; (4) chemical,
biological, radiological and nuclear countermeasures or detection; (5)
animal and plant health and diagnostics; (6) food safety; (7) water and
wastewater operations; (8) port and waterway security; (9) multi-modal
transportation; (10) information security and information engineering;
(11) engineering; (12) educational outreach and technical assistance;
(13) border and transportation security; and (14) the public policy
implications and public dissemination of homeland security relevant
research and development. However, the list is not exclusive. 6 U.S.C.
188(b)(2)(C) gives the Secretary discretion to except certain criteria
specified in 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) and consider additional criteria
beyond those specified in 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) in selecting
universities for this program, as long as the Department issues a
Federal Register notice explaining the criteria used for the
designation.
Criteria
In response to Congressional direction contained in the Conference
Report for the Fiscal Year 2007 Department of Homeland Security
Appropriations Act, the DHS Under Secretary for Science and Technology
developed a plan in November 2006 to establish new DHS Centers of
Excellence in high priority science and technology areas which aligned
to the DHS Science and Technology Directorate's research portfolios and
for which DHS determined there were significant gaps in scientific
understanding and technological development. These areas included: 1.
Natural Disasters, Coastal Infrastructure and Emergency Management, 2.
Explosives Detection, Mitigation and Response, 3. Border Security and
Immigration, and 4. Maritime, Island and Extreme/Remote Environment
Security. Research in these
[[Page 33830]]
areas will contribute significantly to the Department's ability to
enhance homeland security and the safety of our citizens from both
natural and man-made threats.
The criteria for designation for this new Center of Excellence
(COE) for the Study of Maritime Island and Extreme/Remote Environment
Security is demonstrated expertise in conducting fundamental research
into the issues and challenges of global maritime domain security
technology and policy. In addition this COE will conduct research on
maritime and security interests in U.S. islands, territories, and
extreme environments (e.g. Hawaii, Puerto Rico and Alaska). Research
results will support DHS, other Federal, and state and local agencies'
missions to secure national maritime borders and the U.S. maritime
interests. This COE will collaborate closely with the S&T Directorate's
Borders & Maritime Division which manages a full-spectrum research and
development (R&D) program from fundamental research to advanced
technologies. The COE for the Study of Maritime, Island and Extreme/
Remote Environment Security will provide enabling basic research that
will advance the technical tools and information that S&T's customers
will need in the future to defend maritime commerce and the global
supply chain, minimize damage and expedite recovery from attacks or
catastrophic events impacting the maritime domain, and protect
maritime-related population centers, critical infrastructure and other
national maritime interests. This COE will develop relevant educational
curricula for both matriculated students and career professionals.
The Center of Excellence for the Study of Maritime, Island and
Extreme/Remote Environment Security will conduct basic and
transformational research on maritime security issues in the following
areas:
1. Maritime Domain Awareness. Specifically the COE will research
the best ways--with full regard to legal and international frameworks,
sensitivity to privacy, effectiveness, and affordability--of
maintaining necessary and appropriate surveillance over the U.S. and
global maritime domain and its users, ports of entry and maritime
infrastructure. In addition, the COE will develop improvements in our
ability to screen and scan cargo, vessels, passengers, the maritime
workforce and the boating public, so that contraband does not enter the
U.S.
2. Marine Transportation System Security, Critical Infrastructure
Protection, Resiliency and Recovery. Research will develop effective
and feasible ways to imbed security practices that will enhance supply
chain transparency and protect against intentional acts of terrorism.
Research will assess the risk and vulnerability of extreme environments
for terrorist attacks and catastrophic events and methods to mitigate
the consequences of these events on people, commerce, and critical
infrastructure should they occur. Research will evaluate the resiliency
of the maritime transportation system to aid in maritime system
recovery planning.
3. Maritime Risk Management, Policy Analysis, & International
Governance. Research will develop new technologies and improved risk
assessment methodologies to prioritize protection efforts, and best
leverage public and private layered security efforts to protect
critical maritime infrastructure. Policy and legal analysis will be
conducted to enhance cooperation among nations and international
organizations that share common interests regarding the security of the
maritime domain.
4. Maritime Enforcement, Operational Analyses, & Command, Control,
and Communications. In particular the COE will develop approaches that
allow for multiple layers of security and diverse forms of
surveillance, interdiction, and enforcement to be effectively
integrated. Research will also facilitate the timely communication of
information and analysis generated by surveillance and screening
systems.
Announcement of Funding Opportunities and Competition
In February 2007, the Department established a competitive process
and requested white papers and proposals from universities that wished
to be designated as DHS Centers of Excellence in: 1. Explosives
Detection Mitigation and Response, 2. Explosives Detection, Mitigation
and Response, 3. Border Security Immigration, or 4. Maritime, Island
and Extreme/Remote Environment Security. The funding opportunity
announcements for these four Centers of Excellence were published at
http://www.grants.gov on February 4, 2007, as required by the Office of
Management and Budget. In the area of Maritime, Island and Extreme/
Remote Environment Security DHS received 8 white papers and evaluated
them through a peer-review panel process that included scientific
expertise from the federal government, peer-institutional faculty, and
the private sector. Following the white paper review, DHS received 4
full proposals by the closing date of July 30, 2007. The 4 full
proposals were reviewed by subject matter experts external to DHS S&T.
Two full proposals were referred to an internal review panel of S&T
subject matter experts for evaluation, who recommended site visits at
both sites. Based on information collected on these site visits, DHS
selected University of Hawaii and Stevens Institute of Technology to be
Research Co-Lead Institutions for the Maritime, Island and Extreme/
Remote Environment Security Center of Excellence.
Stevens Institute of Technology and its partners will conduct basic
and transformational research on maritime related issues including
Maritime Domain Awareness; Marine Transportation System Security,
Critical Infrastructure Protection, Resiliency and Recovery; Maritime
Risk Management, Policy Analysis, & International Governance; and
Maritime Enforcement, Operational Analyses, & Command, Control, and
Communications.
Jay M. Cohen,
Under Secretary for Science and Technology, Department of Homeland
Security.
[FR Doc. E8-13290 Filed 6-12-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4410-10-P
[Federal Register: June 13, 2008 (Volume 73, Number 115)]
[Notices]
[Page 33832-33833]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr13jn08-72]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
Office of the Secretary
Notice Designating the University of Arizona as a DHS Center of
Excellence for the Study of Border Security and Immigration, Research
Lead Institution
AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Department of Homeland Security.
ACTION: Notice.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The Department of Homeland Security has designated the
University of Arizona as a DHS Center of Excellence for the Study of
Border Security and Immigration, Research Lead Institution.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tiffany Lightbourn, Program Manager,
University Programs, Science and Technology Directorate, Department of
Homeland Security, Washington, DC 20528; telephone 202-254-5843,
facsimile 202-254-6179; e-mail tiffany.lightbourn@dhs.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
Section 308 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002, Public Law 107-
296, (the ``Homeland Security Act''), as amended by the Consolidated
Appropriations Resolution 2003, Public Law 108-7, and as codified in
Title 6 of the United States Code Chapter I Subchapter III Section
188(b)(2) [6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)], directs the Department of Homeland
Security (``Department'') to sponsor extramural research, development,
demonstration, testing and evaluation programs relating to homeland
security. As part of this program, the Department has established a
coordinated system of university-based centers for homeland security
(the ``Centers'').
The Centers are envisioned to be an integral component of the
Department's capability to anticipate, prevent, respond to, and recover
from terrorist attacks. The Centers will leverage multidisciplinary
capabilities and fill gaps in current knowledge.
Title 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) lists fourteen areas of substantive
expertise that, if demonstrated, might qualify universities for
designation as university-based centers. The listed areas of expertise
include: (1) The training of first responders; (2) responding to
incidents involving weapons of mass destruction and biological warfare;
(3) emergency and diagnostic medical services; (4) chemical,
biological, radiological and nuclear countermeasures or detection; (5)
animal and plant health and diagnostics; (6) food safety; (7) water and
wastewater operations; (8) port and waterway security; (9) multi-modal
transportation; (10) information security and information engineering;
(11) engineering; (12) educational outreach and technical assistance;
(13) border and transportation security; and (14) the public policy
implications and public dissemination of homeland security relevant
research and development. However, the list is not exclusive. 6 U.S.C.
188(b)(2)(C) gives the Secretary discretion to except certain criteria
specified in 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) and consider additional criteria
beyond those specified in 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) in selecting
universities for this program, as long as the Department issues a
Federal Register notice explaining the criteria used for the
designation.
Criteria
In response to Congressional direction contained in the Conference
Report for the Fiscal Year 2007 Department of Homeland Security
Appropriations Act, the DHS Under Secretary for Science and Technology
developed a plan in November 2006 to establish new DHS Centers of
Excellence in high priority science and technology areas which aligned
to the DHS Science and Technology Directorate's research portfolios and
for which DHS determined there were significant gaps in scientific
understanding and technological development. These areas included: (1)
Natural Disasters, Coastal Infrastructure and Emergency Management, (2)
Explosives Detection, Mitigation and Response, (3) Maritime, Island and
Remote Environment Security, and (4) Border Security and Immigration.
Research in these areas will contribute significantly to the
Department's ability to enhance homeland security and the safety of our
citizens from both natural and man-made threats.
The criteria for designation for this new Center of Excellence
(COE) for the Study of Border Security and Immigration) is demonstrated
expertise in conducting fundamental research into the policy and
technological issues and challenges of U.S. border security,
immigration, and national security. Research results will support DHS,
other federal, state and local agencies missions to secure our national
borders while welcoming legitimate visitors and trade. This COE will
collaborate closely with S&T's Borders & Maritime Division which
manages a full-spectrum research and development (R&D) program from
fundamental research to advanced technologies. The COE for the Study of
Border Security and Immigration will provide enabling basic research
that will advance the technical tools and information that S&T's
customers will need in the future to balance the lawful movement of
people and goods with effective border security. This COE will develop
relevant educational curricula for both matriculated students and
career professionals.
The Center of Excellence for the Study of Border Security and
Immigration will conduct basic and transformational research on border
security issues in the following areas:
1. Surveillance, Screening, Data Fusion, and Situational Awareness.
Specifically they will research the best ways--in terms of legality,
sensitivity to privacy, effectiveness, and affordability--of
maintaining surveillance over borders and ports of entry. In addition
they will develop improvements in our ability to screen cargo,
vehicles, and passengers entering the U.S.
2. Population Dynamics, Immigration Administration, and Immigration
Enforcement. Research will develop methods to accurately measure and
reliably predict the size of immigration flows to the U.S. and improve
the efficiency of our system of immigration administration and enhance
the enforcement of our immigration laws.
3. Operational Analysis, & Command, Control, and Communications. In
particular they will develop approaches that allow for multiple layers
of security and diverse forms of surveillance, interdiction, and
enforcement to be effectively integrated. Research will also facilitate
the timely communication of information and analysis generated by
surveillance and screening systems.
4. Immigration Policy, Civic Integration, & Citizenship. Research
will assess the consequences of immigration policies on future flows of
migrants, the American labor market, and on the incorporation of
immigrants into American society.
5. Border Risk Management & International Governance. Research will
assess new technologies and improved risk assessment methodologies to
prioritize protection efforts. Research will also assess strategies
that can enhance cooperation among nationals and international
organizations that
[[Page 33833]]
share common interests regarding the security of the border domain.
Announcement of Funding Opportunities and Competition
In February 2007, the Department established a competitive process
and requested white papers and proposals from universities that wished
to be designated as DHS Centers of Excellence in: (1) Explosives
Detection Mitigation and Response, (2) Explosives Detection, Mitigation
and Response, (3) Maritime, Island and Remote Environment Security, or
(4) Border Security and Immigration. The funding opportunity
announcements for these four Centers of Excellence were published at
http://www.grants.gov on February 4, 2007, as required by the Office of
Management and Budget. In the area of Border Security and Immigration
DHS received 11 white papers and evaluated them through a peer-review
panel process that included scientific expertise from the federal
government, peer-institutional faculty, and the private sector.
Following the white paper review, DHS received 6 full proposals by the
closing date of July 30, 2007. The 6 full proposals were reviewed by
subject matter experts external to DHS S&T. Three full proposals were
referred to an internal review panel of S&T subject matter experts for
evaluation, who recommended site visits at all 3 sites. Based on
information collected on these site visits, DHS selected the University
of Arizona to be the Research Lead Institution for the Border Security
and Immigration Center of Excellence, in partnership with the
University of Texas at El Paso (the Education Lead), the University of
New Mexico and other affiliated universities.
The University of Arizona and its partners will conduct basic and
transformational research and develop educational programs on the
policy and technological issues and challenges of U.S. border security,
immigration, and national security.
Jay M. Cohen,
Under Secretary for Science and Technology, Department of Homeland
Security.
[FR Doc. E8-13281 Filed 6-12-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4410-10-P
[Federal Register: June 13, 2008 (Volume 73, Number 115)]
[Notices]
[Page 33833-33834]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr13jn08-73]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
Office of the Secretary
Notice Designating the University of Hawaii as a DHS Center of
Excellence for the Study of Maritime, Island and Extreme/Remote
Environment Security as Research Co-Lead Institution
AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Department of Homeland Security.
ACTION: Notice.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The Department of Homeland Security has designated the
University of Hawaii as a DHS Center of Excellence for the Study of
Maritime, Island and Extreme/Remote Environment Security, Research Co-
Lead Institution.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tiffany Lightbourn, Program Manager,
University Programs, Science and Technology Directorate, Department of
Homeland Security, Washington, DC 20528; telephone 202-254-5843,
facsimile 202-254-6179; e-mail tiffany.lightbourn@dhs.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
Section 308 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002, Public Law 107-
296, (the ``Homeland Security Act''), as amended by the Consolidated
Appropriations Resolution 2003, Public Law 108-7, and as codified in
Title 6 of the United States Code Chapter I Subchapter III section
188(b)(2) [6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)], directs the Department of Homeland
Security (``Department'') to sponsor extramural research, development,
demonstration, testing and evaluation programs relating to homeland
security. As part of this program, the Department has established a
coordinated system of university-based centers for homeland security
(the ``Centers'').
The Centers are envisioned to be an integral component of the
Department's capability to anticipate, prevent, respond to, and recover
from terrorist attacks. The Centers will leverage multidisciplinary
capabilities and fill gaps in current knowledge.
Title 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) lists fourteen areas of substantive
expertise that, if demonstrated, might qualify universities for
designation as university-based centers. The listed areas of expertise
include: (1) The training of first responders; (2) responding to
incidents involving weapons of mass destruction and biological warfare;
(3) emergency and diagnostic medical services; (4) chemical,
biological, radiological and nuclear countermeasures or detection; (5)
animal and plant health and diagnostics; (6) food safety; (7) water and
wastewater operations; (8) port and waterway security; (9) multi-modal
transportation; (10) information security and information engineering;
(11) engineering; (12) educational outreach and technical assistance;
(13) border and transportation security; and (14) the public policy
implications and public dissemination of homeland security relevant
research and development. However, the list is not exclusive. 6 U.S.C.
188(b)(2)(C) gives the Secretary discretion to except certain criteria
specified in 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) and consider additional criteria
beyond those specified in 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) in selecting
universities for this program, as long as the Department issues a
Federal Register notice explaining the criteria used for the
designation.
Criteria
In response to Congressional direction contained in the Conference
Report for the Fiscal Year 2007 Department of Homeland Security
Appropriations Act, the DHS Under Secretary for Science and Technology
developed a plan in November 2006 to establish new DHS Centers of
Excellence in high priority science and technology areas which aligned
to the DHS Science and Technology Directorate's research portfolios and
for which DHS determined there were significant gaps in scientific
understanding and technological development. These areas included: 1.
Natural Disasters, Coastal Infrastructure and Emergency Management, 2.
Explosives Detection, Mitigation and Response, 3. Border Security and
Immigration, and 4. Maritime, Island and Extreme/Remote Environment
Security. Research in these areas will contribute significantly to the
Department's ability to enhance homeland security and the safety of our
citizens from both natural and man-made threats.
The criteria for designation for this new Center of Excellence
(COE) for the Study of Maritime Island and Extreme/Remote Environment
Security is demonstrated expertise in conducting fundamental research
into the issues and challenges of global maritime domain security
technology and policy. In addition this COE will conduct research on
maritime and security interests in U.S. islands, territories, and
extreme environments (e.g. Hawaii, Puerto Rico and Alaska). Research
results will support DHS, other Federal, and state and local agencies'
missions to secure national maritime borders and the U.S. maritime
interests. This COE
[[Page 33834]]
will collaborate closely with the S&T Directorate's Borders & Maritime
Division which manages a full-spectrum research and development (R&D)
program from fundamental research to advanced technologies. The COE for
the Study of Maritime, Island and Extreme/Remote Environment Security
will provide enabling basic research that will advance the technical
tools and information that S&T's customers will need in the future to
defend maritime commerce and the global supply chain, minimize damage
and expedite recovery from attacks or catastrophic events impacting the
maritime domain, and protect maritime-related population centers,
critical infrastructure and other national maritime interests. This COE
will develop relevant educational curricula for both matriculated
students and career professionals.
The Center of Excellence for the Study of Maritime, Island and
Extreme/Remote Environment Security will conduct basic and
transformational research on maritime security issues in the following
areas:
1. Maritime Domain Awareness. Specifically the COE will research
the best ways--with full regard to legal and international frameworks,
sensitivity to privacy, effectiveness, and affordability--of
maintaining necessary and appropriate surveillance over the U.S. and
global maritime domain and its users, ports of entry and maritime
infrastructure. In addition, the COE will develop improvements in our
ability to screen and scan cargo, vessels, passengers, the maritime
workforce and the boating public, so that contraband does not enter the
U.S.
2. Marine Transportation System Security, Critical Infrastructure
Protection, Resiliency and Recovery. Research will develop effective
and feasible ways to imbed security practices that will enhance supply
chain transparency and protect against intentional acts of terrorism.
Research will assess the risk and vulnerability of extreme environments
for terrorist attacks and catastrophic events and methods to mitigate
the consequences of these events on people, commerce, and critical
infrastructure should they occur. Research will evaluate the resiliency
of the maritime transportation system to aid in maritime system
recovery planning.
3. Maritime Risk Management, Policy Analysis, & International
Governance. Research will develop new technologies and improved risk
assessment methodologies to prioritize protection efforts, and best
leverage public and private layered security efforts to protect
critical maritime infrastructure. Policy and legal analysis will be
conducted to enhance cooperation among nations and international
organizations that share common interests regarding the security of the
maritime domain.
4. Maritime Enforcement, Operational Analyses, & Command, Control,
and Communications. In particular the COE will develop approaches that
allow for multiple layers of security and diverse forms of
surveillance, interdiction, and enforcement to be effectively
integrated. Research will also facilitate the timely communication of
information and analysis generated by surveillance and screening
systems.
Announcement of Funding Opportunities and Competition
In February 2007, the Department established a competitive process
and requested white papers and proposals from universities that wished
to be designated as DHS Centers of Excellence in: 1. Explosives
Detection Mitigation and Response, 2. Explosives Detection, Mitigation
and Response, 3. Border Security Immigration, or 4. Maritime, Island
and Extreme/Remote Environment Security. The funding opportunity
announcements for these four Centers of Excellence were published at
http://www.grants.gov on February 4, 2007, as required by the Office of
Management and Budget. In the area of Maritime, Island and Extreme/
Remote Environment Security DHS received 8 white papers and evaluated
them through a peer-review panel process that included scientific
expertise from the federal government, peer-institutional faculty, and
the private sector. Following the white paper review, DHS received 4
full proposals by the closing date of July 30, 2007. The 4 full
proposals were reviewed by subject matter experts external to DHS S&T.
Two full proposals were referred to an internal review panel of S&T
subject matter experts for evaluation, who recommended site visits at
both sites. Based on information collected on these site visits, DHS
selected the University of Hawaii and Stevens Institute of Technology
to be Research Co-Lead Institutions for the Maritime, Island and
Extreme/Remote Environment Security Center of Excellence.
The University of Hawaii and its partners will conduct basic and
transformational research on maritime related issues including Maritime
Domain Awareness; Marine Transportation System Security, Critical
Infrastructure Protection, Resiliency and Recovery; Maritime Risk
Management, Policy Analysis, & International Governance; and Maritime
Enforcement, Operational Analyses, & Command, Control, and
Communications.
Jay M. Cohen,
Under Secretary for Science and Technology, Department of Homeland
Security.
[FR Doc. E8-13295 Filed 6-12-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4410-10-P
[Federal Register: June 13, 2008 (Volume 73, Number 115)]
[Notices]
[Page 33830-33832]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr13jn08-71]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
Office of the Secretary
Notice Designating the University of North Carolina at Chapel
Hill as a DHS Center of Excellence for Natural Disasters, Coastal
Infrastructure and Emergency Management as Research Lead Institution
AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Department of Homeland Security.
ACTION: Notice.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The Department of Homeland Security has designated the
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as a DHS Center of
Excellence for Natural Disasters, Coastal Infrastructure and Emergency
Management, Research Lead Institution.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Bryan Roberts, Program Manager,
University Programs, Science and Technology Directorate, Department of
Homeland Security, Washington, DC 20528; telephone 202-254-5738,
facsimile 202-254-6179; e-mail bryan.roberts@dhs.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
Section 308 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002, Public Law 107-
296 (the ``Homeland Security Act''), as amended by the Consolidated
Appropriations
[[Page 33831]]
Resolution of 2003, Public Law 108-7, and as codified in Title 6 of the
United States Code, Chapter I, Subchapter III, Section 188(b)(2) [6
U.S.C. 188(b)(2)], directs the Department of Homeland Security
(``Department'') to sponsor extramural research, development,
demonstration, testing and evaluation programs relating to homeland
security. As part of this program, the Department has established a
coordinated system of university-based centers for homeland security
(the ``Centers'').
The Centers are envisioned to be an integral component of the
Department's capability to anticipate, prevent, respond to, and recover
from terrorist attacks. The Centers will leverage multidisciplinary
capabilities and fill gaps in current knowledge.
Title 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) lists fourteen areas of substantive
expertise that, if demonstrated, might qualify universities for
designation as university-based centers. The listed areas of expertise
include: (1) The training of first responders; (2) responding to
incidents involving weapons of mass destruction and biological warfare;
(3) emergency and diagnostic medical services; (4) chemical,
biological, radiological and nuclear countermeasures or detection; (5)
animal and plant health and diagnostics; (6) food safety; (7) water and
wastewater operations; (8) port and waterway security; (9) multi-modal
transportation; (10) information security and information engineering;
(11) engineering; (12) educational outreach and technical assistance;
(13) border and transportation security; and (14) the public policy
implications and public dissemination of homeland security relevant
research and development. However, the list is not exclusive. 6 U.S.C.
188(b)(2)(C) gives the Secretary discretion to except certain criteria
specified in 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) and consider additional criteria
beyond those specified in 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) in selecting
universities for this program, as long as the Department issues a
Federal Register notice explaining the criteria used for the
designation.
Criteria
In response to Congressional direction contained in the Conference
Report for the Fiscal Year 2007 Department of Homeland Security
Appropriations Act, the DHS Under Secretary for Science and Technology
developed a plan in November 2006 to establish new DHS Centers of
Excellence in high priority science and technology areas which aligned
to the DHS Science and Technology Directorate's research portfolios and
for which DHS determined there were significant gaps in scientific
understanding and technological development. These areas included: 1.
Natural Disasters, Coastal Infrastructure and Emergency Management, 2.
Explosives Detection, Mitigation and Response, 3. Maritime, Island and
Remote Environment Security, and 4. Border Security and Immigration.
Research in these areas will contribute significantly to the
Department's ability to enhance homeland security and the safety of our
citizens from both natural and man-made threats.
The criteria for designation for this new Center of Excellence
(COE) for Natural Disasters, Coastal Infrastructure and Emergency
Management is demonstrated expertise in conducting fundamental research
into the issues and challenges in predicting, preparing for, preventing
damages from, responding to, and recovering from natural disasters in
coastal areas. The Center will develop research and education programs
to improve understanding of, preparation for, and responses to natural
disasters, with a particular emphasis on flooding and hurricanes. The
Center will align with DHS S&T's Infrastructure and Geophysical
Division and will develop approaches and train future professionals to
reduce serious threats to of American life and property for many years.
Specifically, the Center will conduct basic and transformational
research on coastal issues in the following areas: (1) Natural hazards
of the coastal region (e.g., flooding from hurricanes or storm surges);
(2) Innovative and comprehensive regional flood water management,
including technical approaches and options to prevent damages from,
mitigate, and recover from flooding incidents, and development of
better understanding of land-water interactions; (3) Approaches to
safeguarding public-sector coastal infrastructure and meeting other
public-sector needs in crises; and (4) Coastal regional planning,
governance, resilience, and unified comprehensive risk-based decision
support tools, particularly for natural disasters warranting emergency
measures. These tools include social, political, and economic studies
on the public sector workforce and on new networks, institutions, or
associations that might be devised as test beds to be effective in the
coastal region, tailored to the region's socio-economic, governance,
and geographic features.
Announcement of Funding Opportunities and Competition
In February 2007, the Department established a competitive process
and requested white papers and proposals from universities that wished
to be designated as DHS Centers of Excellence in: 1. Natural Disasters,
Coastal Infrastructure and Emergency Management, 2. Explosives
Detection, Mitigation and Response, 3. Maritime, Island and Remote
Environment Security, or 4. Border Security and Immigration. The
funding opportunity announcements for these four Centers of Excellence
were published at www.grants.gov on February 4, 2007, as required by
the Office of Management and Budget. In the area of Natural Disasters,
Coastal Infrastructure and Emergency Management, DHS received 31
Natural Disasters white papers proposals and evaluated them through a
peer-review panel process that included scientific expertise from the
federal government, peer-institutional faculty, and the private sector.
Following the white paper review, DHS received 13 full proposals by the
closing date of July 30, 2007. The 13 full proposals were reviewed by
subject matter experts external to DHS S&T. Eight full proposals were
referred to an internal review panel of S&T subject matter experts for
evaluation, who recommended site visits at four sites. Based on
information collected on these site visits, DHS selected the University
of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to be the Research Lead Institution
for the Natural Disasters, Coastal Infrastructure and Emergency
Management Center of Excellence, in partnership with Jackson State
University (the Education Lead), Louisiana State University and other
affiliates.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and its partners
will conduct research and education on natural hazards--particularly
flood and hurricane modeling, natural and infrastructure resilience,
physical testing to extend new theoretical and modeling developments,
community preparedness and regional governance and natural disaster-
related education, including the development and use of capabilities at
minority-serving institutions.
This team of institutions is uniquely well equipped and located to
address issues of hurricane and flood prediction, preparedness,
response and recovery. They will become an intrinsic part of the DHS
science and technology portfolio, working closely with DHS and other
federal, state and local governments to reduce potential
[[Page 33832]]
damages from floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters.
Jay M. Cohen,
Under Secretary for Science and Technology, Department of Homeland
Security.
[FR Doc. E8-13276 Filed 6-12-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4410-10-P
[Federal Register: June 13, 2008 (Volume 73, Number 115)]
[Notices]
[Page 33834-33835]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr13jn08-74]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
Office of the Secretary
Notice Designating the University of Rhode Island as a DHS Center
of Excellence for Explosives Detection Mitigation and Response as
Education Lead Institution
AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Department of Homeland Security.
ACTION: Notice.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The Department of Homeland Security has designated the
University of Rhode Island as a DHS Center of Excellence for Explosives
Detection Mitigation and Response, Education Lead Institution.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Douglas Bauer, Program Manager,
University Programs, Science and Technology Directorate, Department of
Homeland Security, Washington, DC 20528; telephone 202-254-6040,
facsimile 202-254-6179; e-mail doug.bauer@dhs.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
Section 308 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002, Public Law 107-
296, (the ``Homeland Security Act''), as amended by the Consolidated
Appropriations Resolution 2003, Public Law 108-7, and as codified in
Title 6 of the United States Code Chapter I Subchapter III Section
188(b)(2) [6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)], directs the Department of Homeland
Security (``Department'') to sponsor extramural research, development,
demonstration, testing and evaluation programs relating to homeland
security. As part of this program, the Department has established a
coordinated system of university-based centers for homeland security
(the ``Centers'').
The Centers are envisioned to be an integral component of the
Department's capability to anticipate, prevent, respond to, and recover
from terrorist attacks. The Centers will leverage multidisciplinary
capabilities and fill gaps in current knowledge.
Title 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) lists fourteen areas of substantive
expertise that, if demonstrated, might qualify universities for
designation as
[[Page 33835]]
university-based centers. The listed areas of expertise include: (1)
The training of first responders; (2) responding to incidents involving
weapons of mass destruction and biological warfare; (3) emergency and
diagnostic medical services; (4) chemical, biological, radiological and
nuclear countermeasures or detection; (5) animal and plant health and
diagnostics; (6) food safety; (7) water and wastewater operations; (8)
port and waterway security; (9) multi-modal transportation; (10)
information security and information engineering; (11) engineering;
(12) educational outreach and technical assistance; (13) border and
transportation security; and (14) the public policy implications and
public dissemination of homeland security relevant research and
development. However, the list is not exclusive. 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(C)
gives the Secretary discretion to except certain criteria specified in
6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) and consider additional criteria beyond those
specified in 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) in selecting universities for this
program, as long as the Department issues a Federal Register notice
explaining the criteria used for the designation.
Criteria
In response to Congressional direction contained in the Conference
Report for the Fiscal Year 2007 Department of Homeland Security
Appropriations Act, the DHS Under Secretary for Science and Technology
developed a plan in November 2006 to establish new DHS Centers of
Excellence in high priority science and technology areas which aligned
to the DHS Science and Technology Directorate's research portfolios and
for which DHS determined there were significant gaps in scientific
understanding and technological development. These areas included: 1.
Natural Disasters, Coastal Infrastructure and Emergency Management, 2.
Explosives Detection, Mitigation and Response, 3. Maritime, Island and
Remote Environment Security, and 4. Border Security and Immigration.
Research in these areas will contribute significantly to the
Department's ability to enhance homeland security and the safety of our
citizens from both natural and man-made threats.
The criteria for designation for this new Center of Excellence
(COE) for Explosives Detection Mitigation and Response (EDMR) is
demonstrated expertise in conducting fundamental explosives-related
sciences and engineering research. S&T is establishing the EDMR COE to
conduct research to enhance the Nation's technical capabilities to
detect, prepare for, prevent damages from, respond to, and recover from
terrorist attacks involving explosives. The EDMR COE will collaborate
closely with the DHS/Science and Technology (S&T) Directorate's
Explosives Division, which manages a full-spectrum research and
development (R&D) program from fundamental research to advanced
technologies. The EDMR COE will provide enabling basic research that
will advance the technical tools and information that S&T's customers
will need in the future. The EDMR COE will develop relevant educational
curricula for both matriculated students and career professionals. The
EDMR COE also will participate in S&T's University Network, a
consortium of COEs that share resources and data and collaborate on
research projects to provide cost-effective results to support DHS's
mission.
Announcement of Funding Opportunities and Competition
In February 2007, the Department established a competitive process
and requested white papers and proposals from universities that wished
to be designated as DHS Centers of Excellence in: 1. Natural Disasters,
Coastal Infrastructure and Emergency Management, 2. Explosives
Detection, Mitigation and Response, 3. Maritime, Island and Remote
Environment Security, or 4. Border Security and Immigration. The
funding opportunity announcements for these four Centers of Excellence
were published at http://www.grants.gov on February 4, 2007, as
required by the Office of Management and Budget. In the area of
Explosives Detection Mitigation and Response, DHS received 19 white
papers and evaluated them through a peer-review panel process that
included scientific expertise from the federal government, peer-
institutional faculty, and the private sector. Following the white
paper review, DHS received 5 full proposals by the closing date of July
30, 2007. The 5 full proposals were reviewed by subject matter experts
external to DHS S&T. All 5 full proposals were referred to an internal
review panel of S&T subject matter experts for evaluation, who
recommended site visits at 3 sites. Based on information collected on
these site visits, DHS selected the University of Rhode Island to be
the Education Lead Institution for the Explosives Detection Mitigation
and Response Center of Excellence, in partnership with Northeastern
University (the Research Lead), New Mexico Institute of Mining and
Technology and other affiliated universities.
The University of Rhode Island and its partners will develop
educational programs and conduct basic and transformational research
and on explosives-related issues including explosives properties,
formulation, and characterization; detection of explosives and
explosive devices; sensor materials; unconventional approaches to
identify threats, and other countermeasures. These programs will
include the development and use of explosives research and educational
capabilities at minority-serving institutions.
This team of institutions will become an intrinsic part of the DHS
science and technology portfolio, working closely with DHS and other
federal, state and local governments to reduce potential damages from
floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters.
Jay M. Cohen,
Under Secretary for Science and Technology, Department of Homeland
Security.
[FR Doc. E8-13291 Filed 6-12-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4410-10-P
[Federal Register: June 13, 2008 (Volume 73, Number 115)]
[Notices]
[Page 33835-33837]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr13jn08-75]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
Office of the Secretary
Notice Designating the University of Texas at El Paso as a DHS
Center of Excellence for the Study of Border Security and Immigration
for Education Lead Institution
AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Department of Homeland Security.
ACTION: Notice.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The Department of Homeland Security has designated the
University of Texas at El Paso as a DHS Center of Excellence for the
Study of Border Security and Immigration, Education Lead Institution.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tiffany Lightbourn, Program Manager,
University Programs, Science and Technology Directorate, Department of
Homeland Security, Washington, DC 20528; telephone 202-254-5843,
facsimile 202-254-6179; e-mail tiffany.lightbourn@dhs.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
Section 308 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002, Public Law 107-
296, (the ``Homeland Security Act''), as amended by the Consolidated
Appropriations Resolution 2003, Public Law 108-7, and as codified in
Title 6 of the United States Code Chapter I Subchapter III
[[Page 33836]]
Section 188(b)(2) [6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)], directs the Department of
Homeland Security (``Department'') to sponsor extramural research,
development, demonstration, testing and evaluation programs relating to
homeland security. As part of this program, the Department has
established a coordinated system of university-based centers for
homeland security (the ``Centers'').
The Centers are envisioned to be an integral component of the
Department's capability to anticipate, prevent, respond to, and recover
from terrorist attacks. The Centers will leverage multidisciplinary
capabilities and fill gaps in current knowledge.
Title 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) lists fourteen areas of substantive
expertise that, if demonstrated, might qualify universities for
designation as university-based centers. The listed areas of expertise
include: (1) The training of first responders; (2) responding to
incidents involving weapons of mass destruction and biological warfare;
(3) emergency and diagnostic medical services; (4) chemical,
biological, radiological and nuclear countermeasures or detection; (5)
animal and plant health and diagnostics; (6) food safety; (7) water and
wastewater operations; (8) port and waterway security; (9) multi-modal
transportation; (10) information security and information engineering;
(11) engineering; (12) educational outreach and technical assistance;
(13) border and transportation security; and (14) the public policy
implications and public dissemination of homeland security relevant
research and development. However, the list is not exclusive. 6 U.S.C.
188(b)(2)(C) gives the Secretary discretion to except certain criteria
specified in 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) and consider additional criteria
beyond those specified in 6 U.S.C. 188(b)(2)(B) in selecting
universities for this program, as long as the Department issues a
Federal Register notice explaining the criteria used for the
designation.
Criteria
In response to Congressional direction contained in the Conference
Report for the Fiscal Year 2007 Department of Homeland Security
Appropriations Act, the DHS Under Secretary for Science and Technology
developed a plan in November 2006 to establish new DHS Centers of
Excellence in high priority science and technology areas which aligned
to the DHS Science and Technology Directorate's research portfolios and
for which DHS determined there were significant gaps in scientific
understanding and technological development. These areas included: (1)
Natural Disasters, Coastal Infrastructure and Emergency Management, (2)
Explosives Detection, Mitigation and Response, (3) Maritime, Island and
Remote Environment Security, and (4) Border Security and Immigration.
Research in these areas will contribute significantly to the
Department's ability to enhance homeland security and the safety of our
citizens from both natural and man-made threats.
The criteria for designation for this new Center of Excellence for
the Study of Border Security and Immigration will demonstrate expertise
in conducting fundamental research into the policy and technological
issues and challenges of U.S. border security, immigration, and
national security. Research results will support DHS, other federal,
state and local agencies missions to secure our national borders while
welcoming legitimate visitors and trade. This COE will collaborate
closely with S&T's Borders & Maritime Division which manages a full-
spectrum research and development (R&D) program from fundamental
research to advanced technologies. The COE for the Study of Border
Security and Immigration will provide enabling basic research that will
advance the technical tools and information that S&T's customers will
need in the future to balance the lawful movement of people and goods
with effective border security. This COE will develop relevant
educational curricula for both matriculated students and career
professionals.
The Center of Excellence for the Study of Border Security and
Immigration will conduct basic and transformational research on border
security issues in the following areas:
1. Surveillance, Screening, Data Fusion, and Situational Awareness.
Specifically they will research the best ways--in terms of legality,
sensitivity to privacy, effectiveness, and affordability--of
maintaining surveillance over borders and ports of entry. In addition
they will develop improvements in our ability to screen cargo,
vehicles, and passengers entering the U.S.
2. Population Dynamics, Immigration Administration, and Immigration
Enforcement. Research will develop methods to accurately measure and
reliably predict the size of immigration flows to the U.S. and improve
the efficiency of our system of immigration administration and enhance
the enforcement of our immigration laws.
3. Operational Analysis, & Command, Control, and Communications. In
particular they will develop approaches that allow for multiple layers
of security and diverse forms of surveillance, interdiction, and
enforcement to be effectively integrated. Research will also facilitate
the timely communication of information and analysis generated by
surveillance and screening systems.
4. Immigration Policy, Civic Integration, & Citizenship. Research
will assess the consequences of immigration policies on future flows of
migrants, the American labor market, and on the incorporation of
immigrants into American society.
5. Border Risk Management & International Governance. Research will
assess new technologies and improved risk assessment methodologies to
prioritize protection efforts. Research will also assess strategies
that can enhance cooperation among national and international
organizations that share common interests regarding the security of the
border domain.
Announcement of Funding Opportunities and Competition
In February 2007, the Department established a competitive process
and requested white papers and proposals from universities that wished
to be designated as DHS Centers of Excellence in: (1) Explosives
Detection Mitigation and Response, (3) Maritime, Island and Remote
Environment Security, or (4) Border Security and Immigration. The
funding opportunity announcements for these four Centers of Excellence
were published at http://www.grants.gov on February 4, 2007, as
required by the Office of Management and Budget. In the area of Border
Security and Immigration DHS received 11 white papers and evaluated
them through a peer-review panel process that included scientific
expertise from the federal government, peer-institutional faculty, and
the private sector. Following the white paper review, DHS received 6
full proposals by the closing date of July 30, 2007. The 6 full
proposals were reviewed by subject matter experts external to DHS S&T.
Three full proposals were referred to an internal review panel of S&T
subject matter experts for evaluation, who recommended site visits at
all 3 sites. Based on information collected on these site visits, DHS
selected University of Arizona to be the Research Lead Institution for
the Border Security and Immigration Center of Excellence, in
partnership with the University of Texas at El Paso (the Education
Lead), University of New Mexico and other affiliated universities.
The University of Texas at El Paso and its partners will develop
educational programs on the policy and
[[Page 33837]]
technological issues and challenges of U.S. border security,
immigration, and national security.
Jay M. Cohen,
Under Secretary for Science and Technology, Department of Homeland
Security.
[FR Doc. E8-13288 Filed 6-12-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4410-10-P