Regional Research and Operational Support (RROS) encompasses four objectives that are all part of a greater regional strategy. The first objective is to create relationships across the region by implementing a modified Rural Regional Technology Integration (Rural RTI) activity. The goal of the Rural RTI is to provide an objective review by a law enforcement subject matter expert (SME) that uncovers homeland security needs and provides planning options addressing identified procedural and technology solutions. The objective is designed to ensure consistent risk-based, bottom-up planning in homeland security operations to meet national requirements. The second objective is aimed at beginning the process of coordinating Homeland Security related research across the region. This objective will be accomplished by funding small research projects with educational institutions in several Southeastern states that is relevant to the particular states identified homeland security gaps and shortfalls, is consistent with national Homeland Security missions and objectives, and is relevant and complementary to the research being funded in the State of Mississippi. The third objective involves developing collaborations among the three DOE/NNSA assets within the region (ORNL, Y-12 National Security Complex, and SRNL), State Departments of Homeland Security, and with state educational institutions. As the regionalization strategy continues, attention will constantly need to be paid to assuring that the effort remains on mission. The fourth objective will assure that there is continuing attention paid to relevance of the initiative and rigorous strategic planning. The expertise of nationally recognized assets will be utilized to remain current with national studies of gaps and shortfalls and changes in national mission. The completion of this objective will involve the three DOE/NNSA facilities (Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Y-12 National Security Complex, Savannah River National Laboratory) regional universities (Tennessee State University, University of Kentucky, University of Tennessee, Western Carolina University) and regional entities in the private sector (Psydex Corporation, Saliant Solutions Corporation).

 

To learn about SERRI research projects at these regional institutions, please click on the following links: