This $304,098 National Science Foundation project grant supports the acquisition of an x-ray diffraction system at the University of Puerto Rico in Cayey. The system will advance research and education activities in physics, chemistry, materials science, and engineering. It enables over nine research groups to conduct diffraction techniques and studies of nanomaterials, thin films, and low diffracting materials. The university offers training and workshops to undergraduate students using this shared instrumentation. This award under the Integrative Activities program (CFDA 47.083) enhances STEM research capacity and broadens participation through a critical research infrastructure investment. The University of Puerto Rico in Cayey serves as the primary awardee, with additional researchers benefiting from secondary use of the system across the university system through August 2023.