Exploratory Advanced Research (EAR) Program FY 2026 Data Science Solicitation

DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAM: The EAR Program addresses the need to conduct research on
longer term and higher risk breakthrough topics with the potential for transformational
improvements to plan, build, renew, and operate safe, congestion free, and environmentally sound
transportation systems. The Program scans broadly for advances in science and engineering to
identify research topics where FHWA investment has the potential to make a significant impact.
The EAR Program has identified an Agency need for data science for highway transportation
research with the following objectives:

1. Engage and expand the community of researchers interested in applying emerging and
advanced data methods for highway transportation research.
2. Demonstrate potential of emerging and exploratory data analytic techniques for highway
transportation.