One of the goals of the MDA Advanced Research program is to capitalize on the creativity and innovation of the nation's universities and small business community in pursuit of a broad range of revolutionary technologies for applications and insertion into the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS).

To achieve this goal, Advanced Research seeks to develop cutting-edge technologies by partnering with our nation's small businesses and universities through our Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) programs and the University Engagement program. Advanced Research also has an International University-to-University program between U.S. and foreign universities of allied nations to identify and develop cooperative research efforts on research beneficial to the BMDS.

Advanced Research also focuses on the Commercialization and Transition of technology developed for the BMDS into applications in the commercial sector. This work benefits the warfighter, promotes economic growth, and enhances the quality of life in the United States.

Advanced Research leads the Agency's Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Outreach program. STEM Outreach's goal is to increase the awareness of K-12 and college students to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, in order to increase the number of U.S. scientists and engineers capable of solving future missile defense challenges in the government, industry, and academia. Activities provide opportunities for students, school site personnel, parents, and others involved in educational and career decision processes.