Duke University’s Pratt School of Engineering brings together world-class research, innovation and unique engineering education pathways to solve the nation’s most challenging security problems. T2DEfNS is a mission-driven platform that embeds Duke’s research, talent and innovation capabilities directly within the Department of Defense (DoD) ecosystem. We are investing in Duke students, active-duty military service members and DoD civilian workforce members by providing them with expertise in military innovation based on our educational programs.
Our T2DEfNS initiative addresses the critical gap between academic research and DoD operational deployment needs by creating sustained, field-forward partnerships that deliver mission-critical technology innovations as well as future national security workforce. We engage the DoD through relationships with regional and national partners, building partnerships based on established Duke assets.
A group of Pratt faculty members and students visited Norfolk Naval Shipyard in February 2025 to identify science and engineering topics to support Navy’s Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program.
Duke’s T²DEFNS Workshop brings together Defense stakeholders, military service members and academic leaders to explore collaborative pathways in engineering research, innovative design education and talent development for national security.
The Duke-Fort Bragg Educational Partnership Agreement strengthens national security readiness while advancing NC’s position as a defense innovation hub, enabling Duke to directly support the professional development of military personnel and serving civilians while translating cutting-edge research and engineering design into mission-critical capabilities for the warfighter.
Duke Engineering offers flexible, defense-focused graduate education tailored to Navy and other military professionals. Our Design Defense Studio and Innovation for Defense Graduate Certificate help service members turn real-world mission challenges into scalable innovations. Through the U.S. Navy Nuclear Propulsion Program, qualifying officers can apply their training and service toward degree requirements toward the Duke Master of Engineering Management degree. These innovative pathways let military learners earn Duke credentials while continuing to serve.
The six-year industry-academia-federal project will combine several emerging technologies to develop the tools and playbook needed to master the next evolution of electronic warfare.
From crisis playbooks to organizational culture, leaders from different industries offer insight on leading through stress.
Duke ECE’s Maria Gorlatova earns a DARPA Director’s Fellowship to advance research that makes augmented reality safer for soldiers and everyday users.
Executive Director, Christensen Family Center for Innovation (CFCI)
Associate Dean for Master’s & Professional Programs; Executive Director, Design & Technology Innovation Master’s Program
