# Collaborative Research: A Novel Architecture for Secure and Adaptive Spectrum Management Enabling Registration-Free Federal Users

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of Kentucky Research Foundation (KY) · $237,500

## Abstract

This project develops a method, based on cryptographic protocols, that can be used in emerging radio spectrum markets so Federal agencies can acquire spectrum quickly when needed without disclosing information that may compromise their missions. Radio spectrum is a vital resource for wireless communication and sensing. Market approaches such as the Pay-As-You-Go (PAYG) model and the Spectrum Bux currency have been proposed to more efficiently use the congested radio spectrum. Since Federal agencies are a significant fraction of the spectrum ecosystem, Federal agency use of these emerging market mechanisms is necessary for the market mechanisms to provide the desired overall benefits for the nation. However, Federal agency missions sometimes require accessing spectrum without delay; most market designs require pre-registration and other slow steps. Agency missions sometimes require protecting information about sensitive operations; most market designs disclose the identity of the buyer to the seller so the seller can enforce payment terms. The cryptographic methods developed in this project overcome these constraints and thereby help emerging radio spectrum markets succeed.  The architecture supports policy adaptation and microeconomic experiments to inform future spectrum policy and market design decisions. The project also helps educate the next-generation spectrum workforce.

The core of the project is development of novel protocols based on cryptographic credentials and 

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2433905
- **Awardee organization:** University of Kentucky Research Foundation (KY)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** H1HYA8Z1NTM5
- **PI:** Yang Xiao
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** EARS, EXP PROG TO STIM COMP RES
- **Estimated total:** $237,500
- **Funds obligated:** $237,500
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2433905

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2433905, Collaborative Research: A Novel Architecture for Secure and Adaptive Spectrum Management Enabling Registration-Free Federal Users. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-07 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2433905. Licensed CC0.

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