Two researchers get $486,250 from DOD

BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) - The Defense Department has awarded two University at Buffalo researchers nearly $487,000 to work on projects aimed at protecting American soldiers.

Computer science and engineering assistant professor Jason Corso will develop a fleet of robots capable of engaging in surveillance, search-and-destroy and search-and-rescue missions.

The idea is for the robots to detect objects of interest or potential threats to keep soldiers from getting too close.

Also receiving DOD funding is Natalia Litchinitser, an associate professor of electrical engineering.

Her work involves something called metamaterials and how the artificial material reacts with light. One possible goal of Litchinitser's work will be the development of a cloaking device that will make objects invisible.

The funding comes from the Defense University Research Instrumentation Program.