The University of Arizona, doing business as the Arizona Board of Regents, was awarded a $251,861 Project Grant from the National Science Foundation's (NSF) Engineering program (CFDA 47.041) to conduct fundamental research on advanced rechargeable aluminum battery chemistries and cathode materials. The 21-month project aims to develop a mechanistic understanding of how aluminum ion intercalation into MXene structures impacts charge transfer kinetics, ionic transport, and electrochemical stability. Key research objectives include elucidating the effects of MXene composition, surface chemistry, and nanoconfined interlayer water on aluminum ion intercalation, as well as investigating the use of cation pre-intercalation to design improved multilayered cathode materials. This work seeks to enable the rational design of high-performance aluminum battery cathodes to support increased energy density, cycling performance, and safety for applications in vehicle transportation and renewable grid storage. The project also includes outreach activities to engage middle and high school students in Alabama on science and engineering fair projects.