How to bid on Hazardous Materials Safety Research for the Department of Transportation

What the agency is buying and why it matters

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), specifically its Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), is looking for innovative research proposals. The goal is to improve safety when hazardous materials are transported across all modes.

This opportunity is for firms that can offer scientific, technical, engineering, and policy solutions. Research topics include modernizing safety standards, assessing risks of energy storage systems, developing innovative packaging, enhancing emergency response, and improving rail transportation safety for hazardous materials. Contracts can be up to $2,000,000 with a performance period of up to 36 months.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This solicitation was published on August 24, 2026. The first step is to submit a Phase I White Paper. These white papers are due by November 18, 2026, at 11:59 AM ET. Only offerors whose white papers are invited will be able to submit a full proposal in Phase II.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for research organizations, academic institutions, and companies with expertise in hazardous materials, transportation safety, engineering, and related scientific fields. Firms specializing in areas such as risk assessment, materials science, emergency response technologies, or rail safety will find this relevant. This is a professional services opportunity.

The Department of Transportation is looking for innovative solutions to complex safety challenges, so firms with a strong research and development background are well-suited.

How to respond

To access the solicitation, click "View original source" on the portal. If the first click takes you to the portal's homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid. You may need a free account to view all documents, though this is not always required.

Once you have the solicitation document, review it carefully for full eligibility, formatting, and submission instructions for your Phase I White Paper. The contact email address for questions is [email protected].

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Carefully read the entire Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) to understand the specific research objectives and topic areas. Ensure your white paper clearly addresses one or more of the identified core topic areas and demonstrates a clear understanding of the problem the agency is trying to solve.

Focus on the innovation and potential impact of your proposed research. Highlight how your approach offers scientific, technical, engineering, or policy solutions that advance hazardous materials safety. Clearly articulate your methodology and the expected outcomes of your research.

Pay close attention to all formatting and submission instructions for the white paper. Submitting a well-organized and compliant document is crucial for moving to the next phase of the selection process.