Federal Grant Award Summary

Arizona State University, through its Office of Research and Sponsored Projects Administration, received a $675,354 Project Grant award dated July 15, 2026, from the National Science Foundation (NSF) Division of Materials Research under the Mathematical and Physical Sciences program (CFDA 47.049). The award supports fundamental research investigating the discovery and control of altermagnetism in two-dimensional van der Waals materials, with performance extending through June 30, 2029. The project addresses whether this emerging form of magnetism—which shows promise for faster, more energy-efficient information storage and computing technologies—can be realized and manipulated in atomically thin materials where properties can be controlled through thickness, stacking, chemical composition, and external fields in ways impossible with conventional bulk materials.

The research deliverables include scientific findings on altermagnetic behavior in layered transition metal dichalcogenides, with exploration of magnetic atom intercalation and other synthesis approaches to create and control altermagnetic states. The project generates workforce development outcomes through training of postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and undergraduate students in materials synthesis, computational modeling, and advanced measurement techniques. Additionally, the award supports public engagement and science communication activities, including classroom participation, hands-on demonstrations, and accessible educational materials designed to connect the fundamental materials science research to broader audiences.