HR108-119

2. Research Center for Deep-Space and Interplanetary Research The Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, using the authority under section 3204(a)(3)(B) of title 10, United States Code, shall— establish a university-affiliated research center to facilitate capabilities in support of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration; use such a university-affiliated research center to fund analyses and engineering support related to cis-lunar and deep-space missions and interplanetary research; and ensure such a university-affiliated research center— is held accountable for the technical quality of the work product developed under this section; and has established expertise in convening academic and private sector groups to facilitate research and private-public partnerships. The Administrator shall develop and implement policies and procedures to govern, with respect to the establishment of the university-affiliated research center under subsection (a)— the selection of participants; the award of cooperative agreements or other contracts; the appropriate use of competitive awards and sole source awards; and the technical capabilities required. The following entities shall be eligible to participate in a university-affiliated research center established under subsection (a): An institution of higher education (as such term is defined in section 102 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1002)). An operator of a federally funded research and development center. A nonprofit or not-for-profit research institution.