This two-year, $336,834 National Science Foundation Project Grant will fund the acquisition of a scanning electron microscope equipped with energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy detection capabilities (SEM-EDS) at the State University of New York at Fredonia. The SEM-EDS system will enhance multidisciplinary research and education across academic programs such as anthropology, archaeology, biology, chemistry, geology and environmental sciences. It will also support the development of experiential learning opportunities for K-12 students.
Specifically, the SEM-EDS will be used for planned research projects involving the chemical characterization of minerals and rock samples, fossil arthropod evolution, fossilization processes, analysis of archaeological thin sections, reconstruction of landforms using micro-textures of sand grains, identification of diatom species from lakes and streams for water quality analysis, study of nanocluster catalysts, and examination of morphological features in tree crickets. Funded under the NSF's Integrative Activities program, this award is intended to build research capacity and infrastructure through activities that broaden STEM participation, in line with the agency's mission.