# DHS Expands Biosurveillance Capabilities

The Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate is significantly advancing its biosurveillance capabilities to address evolving biological threats, including those influenced by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. As of 2026, DHS is investing in agent-agnostic, persistent biosurveillance systems that integrate diverse data sources to detect a wide range of biological, chemical, and agricultural threats across multiple environments. The agency plans to expand testing sites and staffing in key urban centers including New York City, Austin, Miami, and Seattle, while fostering partnerships with industry and collaborating with the Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. Recent procurement activities include a May 2026 request for information on homeland security biosurveillance capabilities and a September 2026 prize challenge focused on algorithmic detection of biological threats, signaling active opportunities for contractors specializing in biosurveillance technology and AI-assisted biodetection solutions.

- **Why this matters:** DHS's planned large-scale investments and expansion efforts indicate growing demand for innovative biosurveillance technologies and data integration solutions.
- Procurement professionals should note the emphasis on agent-agnostic systems and AI-driven detection algorithms, highlighting opportunities for technology providers with expertise in these areas.
- The geographic focus on major cities and collaboration with DOE's national labs suggest multi-location deployment and cross-agency partnership opportunities.
- Companies can leverage current RFI and prize challenge solicitations to position themselves for upcoming contracts and partnerships in homeland security biosurveillance modernization.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Public Safety
**Topics:** Cybersecurity
**Published:** September 23, 2026

### Government Entities
- Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
- Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate (DHS S&T)
- Department of Energy (DOE)
- National Urban Security Technology Laboratory

### Key Quotes
> What capabilities do we need for the significant challenges that we need to accomplish?
> — David Alexander, Senior Science Advisor

### Sources
- [DHS exploring new biosurveillance capabilities as biological threats evolve, officials say - Nextgov/FCW](https://www.nextgov.com/emerging-tech/2026/09/dhs-exploring-new-biosurveillance-capabilities-biological-threats-evolve-officials-say/416156) - Nextgov/FCW
- [DHS plans ‘large investments’ in biosurveillance as it ramps up capabilities | FedScoop](https://fedscoop.com/dhs-biosurveillance-investment-science-technology-directorate) - FedScoop