APM FAQ V2

Atomically Precise Molecules (APM): DARPA-PS-26-141
Question and Answer Document
Version 2
Updated as of October 20, 2026
1. Question: If we are an individual researcher capable of addressing perhaps one of the pillars, but don't have a complete team (e.g., sustainability / manufacturing) will there be mechanisms for finding teams?
Answer: DARPA actively encourages cross-disciplinary teaming, but does not mandate or directly match partners. All teaming arrangements remain the sole responsibility of the proposers. To assist interested performers in connecting, DARPA facilitates networking via the APM Proposers Day and makes available attendee contact registries, lightning talks, and poster session materials so prospective performers can independently identify and build full proposal teams.

2. Question: One goal of the project is to achieve >1THz modulation. I am not quite sure if THz signal generator is available or not, are we expecting to demonstrate the THz modulator all optically? Could you use a pump-probe experiment? Answer: We recognize that electrical THz modulation measurement is a challenge. We don't know yet what IV&V characterization methods will be available at the time of characterization. Once the project begins, All APM performers will collaborate the IV&V team for viable testing methodology based on their approach. A potential approach could be pump and probe approach as long as there is an established quantitative correlation of the test results with the required THz response.

3. Question: What is the relevant wavelength range for the optical metrics, for example r_33 * n^3 ? Is it near IR wavelengths (900-1500 nm) for the relevant optical applications? Is there a specific single wavelength at which the stated benchmarks are to be achieved? Or something else?
Answer: Metrics are defined without wavelength requirements. Performers are asked to propose an operating wavelength of their choice, accompanied by a sound technical justification demonstrating commercial and DoW relevance.

4. Question: What if during the course of the program all of the optical metrics are met expect for one? I believe the optical loss metric is fundamentally incompatible with the other optical metrics; if all of the other metrics are met expect for that one would the program be considered successful?
Answer: The optical loss metric is for passive materials for demonstrations 2 and 3. The optical loss for demonstration 4 is for the integrated device.