Office of Hazardous Materials Safety Research Initiative – FY2026 BROAD AGENCY ANNOUNCEMENT (BAA)

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) to fund research that advances safety for the transportation of hazardous materials. Offerors submit a Phase I white paper (≤ 9 pages) by 18 Nov 2026; selected proposals proceed to Phase II with a full technical and cost proposal. Awards are competitive, up to $2 M each, with a performance period of up to 36 months. The solicitation covers five core research topic areas: efficient safety standards, safe energy storage, innovative packaging, risk reduction for emergency response, and rail transportation safety. The program seeks U.S.‑based prime contractors (including industry, universities, and non‑profits) and permits foreign subcontractors under limited conditions. Deliverables include progress reports, a data‑management plan, technical reports, and public‑access posting via ROSA‑P, all complying with 508 accessibility and AI‑use disclosure requirements. • Phase I white‑paper deadline = Nov 18 2026 (9‑page limit). • Up to $2 M per award; total performance up to 36 months. • Five defined research topics; each white paper must address a single, stand‑alone research question. • Mandatory reporting, data‑management, and public‑access deliverables; AI usage must be disclosed.