The National Science Foundation (NSF) Division of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental, and Transport Systems awarded a $320,265 Project Grant to Iowa State University of Science and Technology to conduct research on acoustically activated colloidal filtration. This 3-year project under the NSF Directorate for Engineering (CFDA 47.041) aims to develop experimentally validated models of cake layer formation and break-up at membrane interfaces due to acoustic field interactions. The research objectives are to 1) measure cake layer growth without an acoustic field, 2) investigate and model acoustic field interactions with the membrane, and 3) optically interrogate acoustic mixing in 3D membranes. The project seeks to generate fundamental knowledge on membrane fouling and explore the use of acoustic waves to extend the operational lifetime of filtration membranes and reduce operating costs, potentially increasing access to clean water. The grant also supports the mentoring of one graduate student and educational outreach to underrepresented groups in STEM fields.