The Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Science and Technology branch is requesting information from academic institutions on laser-based technologies that offer the potential for standoff detection of explosives and related compounds. Standoff in this case can be anywhere from a half-meter to several meters and the goal being the detection of explosives and related compounds from either trace residues or vapors. The focus is on technologies that are at a basic research level. The technologies will be assessed based on operational factors including the potential for use in a non-laboratory environment and human health and safety considerations such as eye safety. Sol. No. RFI-CIED-09-00002. Respond by Dec. 15, 2008. Contact: Mike Shepard, program manager, Explosives Div., 202-254-5325, [email protected].