Strengthening Teamwork for Robust Operations in Novel Groups (STRONG)
The Army seeks research to improve teamwork between humans and AI agents, addressing challenges arising from AI's increasing role in society.
Funder: Dept of the Army -- Materiel Command
Due Dates: January 31, 2025 (Current Closing Date)
Funding Amounts: Cooperative agreements for 1-year "seedling" projects with optional extensions up to 3 years; specific award amounts not stated.
Summary: Supports basic research to enhance teamwork between humans and AI agents in heterogeneous teams for future Army operations.
Key Information: Requires participation in annual Summer Innovation Summits; encourages proposals from junior investigators; part of an 8-cycle program through FY26.
Description
The U.S. Army Research Laboratory (ARL) has launched the Strengthening Teamwork for Robust Operations in Novel Groups (STRONG) program to address the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) into human-agent teams. This basic research initiative aims to develop foundational scientific knowledge to improve collaboration and teamwork between humans and AI-enabled intelligent agents in heterogeneous groups, which is critical for future Army missions.
STRONG is structured as a multi-year cooperative agreement program executed through eight annual cycles (FY19-FY26). Each cycle focuses on a distinct scientific problem aligned with the long-term goal of enabling robust human-AI teamwork. Funding is initially provided for one-year "seedling" projects, with recipients eligible to apply for a single optional extension of up to three additional years based on research progress and funding availability.
The program emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration among academia, industry, and government researchers. Recipients are required to participate in yearly Summer Innovation Summits hosted by the Center for Agent Soldier Teaming (CAST) Innovation Hubs to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Proposals from junior investigators, including students, research fellows, and early-career researchers (less than 5 years post-PhD or equivalent experience), are encouraged.
