Research Opportunity: DNA-Protein Epigenetic Chemistry Engineering (D-PECHE)

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is seeking innovative proposals under Special Notice DARPA-SN-26-67 to develop novel enzymatic systems capable of writing or erasing non-native epigenetic base modifications in DNA within living cells. This research opportunity targets the creation of proof-of-concept technologies that enable precise control over DNA-protein interactions through enzymatic mechanisms distinct from conventional methylase or demethylase systems. Proposers must design biological tools that position target bases within enzyme active sites, recruit necessary cofactors and precursors, and validate modifications through in vitro detection assays, all within a strict four-month performance period defined by measurable milestones. The work must be conducted entirely in vitro, exclude human or animal subjects, and avoid any use of existing DNA editing platforms. Submissions must be made electronically through the Broad Agency Announcement Tool (BAAT) and include a maximum two-page abstract, an oral presentation of no more than 20 slides, a task description document, a streamlined cost proposal using the provided spreadsheet, and mandatory election forms for an accelerated other transaction (OT) award pathway, with all materials required to adhere to specific formatting guidelines. All proposals must demonstrate high scientific and technical merit, strong relevance to DARPA’s mission, and realistic cost and schedule feasibility, with awards determined through a trade-off process rather than lowest price technically acceptable criteria. Funding is capped at $2 million for accelerated awards, and proposers are required to submit cost proposals via Attachments C and D of the underlying BAA HR001126S0003, though no contract value is pre-established. Abstracts are due by May 27, 2026, and full proposals must be submitted by June 24, 2026, with no physical packaging or delivery requirements—only digital submissions via BAAT are accepted. Offers must be unclassified, and the government will obtain unlimited rights to all generated data. Key personnel qualifications must be detailed, and proposers must affirm that the proposed work does not duplicate existing Department of Defense programs. Acceptance of awards includes compliance with the Model OT Agreement for Research under Attachment L and execution of an accelerated award pathway via Attachment G. The contracting office is located in Arlington, Virginia, with all administrative and technical inquiries directed to D-PECHE@darpa.mil, and no security clearances or socioeconomic certifications are explicitly required beyond standard federal procurement compliance.