Project Grant 2522891

This $2,000,000 Project Grant award from the National Science Foundation's (NSF) Mathematical and Physical Sciences (CFDA 47.049) program will accelerate the discovery of new superconducting materials through a transformative approach combining artificial intelligence (AI), quantum theory, and experimental synthesis. The research will integrate AI methods to predict superconductor properties and design novel, synthesizable materials with targeted superconducting and mechanical characteristics. The selected candidates will undergo density functional theory (DFT) evaluation and targeted experimental characterization. This effort aims to significantly expand the number of known superconductors and identify materials optimized for practical applications, such as high critical temperatures and magnetic fields, ductility for wire fabrication, and three-dimensional electronic structures. The award also includes an educational mission to train students in AI-driven materials research and develop hands-on experiment kits for K-12 classrooms to promote STEM engagement. The project will leverage partnerships with national laboratories, industry, and international collaborators to ensure timely and impactful transition of discoveries to real-world applications.