Federal Project Grant Award Summary

The National Science Foundation (NSF) Division of Materials Research awarded $417,130 to the University of Maryland, College Park on July 1, 2026, under the Mathematical and Physical Sciences program (CFDA 47.049). This five-year CAREER grant funds research on optical phase change materials (PCMs)—advanced materials capable of switching between two stable states with distinct optical properties. The project develops new PCM compositions to precisely control internal material structure and creates automated measurement platforms to rapidly characterize optical response across varying temperature and heating conditions. Research activities explore novel phenomena arising from phase-change materials in photonic structures, their interactions with quantum materials, and optimization of key performance metrics including cyclability, switching energy, and property tunability. Deliverables include foundational knowledge establishing the reliability of optical PCMs for future photonic technologies applicable to sensing, communications, and computing applications.

The award also funds integrated educational activities designed to train the next generation of photonics professionals through mentored research experiences and targeted support for transfer students in materials science and engineering. By establishing fundamental understanding of how internal structural changes during material switching affect optical performance, this research directly addresses current limitations preventing reliable device development and positions optical phase change materials for deployment in compact, energy-efficient photonic devices.