About IARPA

The Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity invests in high-risk, high-payoff research programs to tackle some of the most difficult challenges of the agencies and disciplines in the Intelligence Community (IC).

Our Mission

IARPA’s mission is to push the boundaries of science to develop solutions that empower the IC to do its work better and more efficiently for national security. IARPA does not have an operational mission and does not deploy technologies directly to the field. Instead, we facilitate the transition of research results to our IC customers for operational application.

IARPA and the IC

IARPA collaborates across the IC to ensure that our research addresses relevant future needs. This cross-community focus guarantees our ability to address cross-agency challenges, leveraging both operational and research and development expertise from across the IC, and coordinating transition strategies with our IC partners.

Areas of Interest

Artificial Intelligence

IARPA is working toward breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, or AI, through a number of research programs to benefit the IC and nation.

Quantum Computing

As part of its mission to address some of the most difficult challenges in the IC, IARPA sponsors several applied research programs that explore the potential and possibilities in quantum computing.

Machine Learning

IARPA sponsors research programs and challenges that either leverage or improve Machine Learning and its applications within the IC.

Synthetic Biology

IARPA is investing in cutting-edge synthetic biology research that will help the IC address biothreats along with other possible applications.