# Generative Optogenetics (GO)

Canonical: https://abierto.us/opportunities/darpaps2610

- Solicitation number: DARPA-PS-26-10
- Notice type: Solicitation
- Status: Closed. Deadline was February 26, 2026
- Department: Department of Defense
- Agency: Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency
- Contracting office: Def Advanced Research Projects Agcy (HR0011)
- NAICS: 541714 Research and Development in Biotechnology (except Nanobiotechnology)
- Product or service code: AC12 National Defense R&D Services; Department Of Defense - Military; Applied Research
- First posted: December 19, 2025
- Last posted: December 19, 2025
- SAM.gov: https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/330a7d73f8e44c2ca588697555e48829/view

## Description

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is soliciting innovative concepts to design a protein complex that can be expressed in vivo (i.e., in a living cell) and responds to optical signals to synthesize a corresponding DNA or RNA sequence. This technology should enable massless transfer of genetic information to cells expressing the protein complex via a template-free mechanism that incorporates nucleotide bases in response to specific optical signals (e.g., different wavelengths of light).

The GO program is focused on two main Research Objectives (ROs): (1) achieving the core capability of synthesizing DNA/RNA directly in living cells using optical signals, and (2) developing error mitigation methods that ensure high-fidelity nucleic acid synthesis. The acquisition process for GO will proceed through a two-stage process, starting with (1) written abstracts which will inform invitations to brief (2) an Oral Proposal Package (OPP) at DARPA.

## Publications

- December 19, 2025: Solicitation, due February 26, 2026. Notice 330a7d73f8e44c2ca588697555e48829. https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/330a7d73f8e44c2ca588697555e48829/view

## Points of contact

- Dr. Matthew J. Pava, Program Manager, GO@darpa.mil

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Source: SAM.gov Contract Opportunities bulk extract. Confirm deadlines on SAM.gov before responding. Cite https://abierto.us/opportunities/darpaps2610.