Research

 

We combine globally recognized domain experts who are defining the technology frontier in key critical technologies, with experts pushing the frontier of technologies that allow algorithms to actively learn and parse, and process unstructured text, and with experts at the intersection of trade, innovation, energy, and policy. Leveraging our interdisciplinary expertise and skills in a way that is a hallmark of Carnegie Mellon, CTI’s team is pushing innovations at the intersection of hardware, software, and policy to change the possibility frontier for our nation, citizens, and society.

Alfred P. Sloan Foundation 2024

The Sloan Foundation’s Award has enabled CTI to advance the frontier of critical technology studies and supply chain economics by facilitating the multi-disciplinary integration of technical and economic expertise. CTI is addressing the crucial economic and security risks posed by supply chain vulnerabilities. Beyond the academic research already produced, CTI has developed connections with key partners, including the Department of Commerce (DOC), RAND, DARPA, the Small Business Administration (SBA), and the Department of Energy (DOE). CMU’s President, Farnam Jahanian, has recognized the promise of our project by designating the Critical Technology Initiative (CTI) as a university-wide research priority with partnership across five (5) colleges.

TCR researchers have recently presented at several high-impact conferences:

  • PI Erica Fuchs on the program’s research vision at the National Science Board
  • Co-PI Kate Whitefoot on energy storage supply chain research at the NBER Resilience in Supply Chain Conference
  • Co-PI Kate Whitefoot as a plenary panel member at the Society for Automotive Engineers Government Industry Meeting
  • Research Scientist Nikhil Kalathil on Regional Ecosystems as a Keynote Speaker at the Manufacturing Momentum Summit
  • Co-PI Christophe Combemale on workforce policy at OSD Manufacturing Technology Conference

National Network for Critical Technology Assessment (NNCTA)

Dr. Erica Fuchs led the National Network for Critical Technology Assessment (NNCTA) project, which evaluated existing capabilities and expanded the intellectual foundations, data, and analytic tools to inform the U.S. National Technology Strategy.

Funded by an Award from the National Science Foundation (NSF), the project brought together experts from multiple disciplines and leading universities. This year-long effort resulted in the release of the report, Securing America’s Future: A Framework for Critical Technology Assessment.