Federal Grant Award Summary

San Francisco State University received a $200,000 Engineering Research Initiation (ERI) Project Grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) Division of Civil, Mechanical, and Manufacturing Innovation (CFDA 47.041), awarded July 1, 2026, with completion targeted for June 30, 2028. The project delivers foundational research products advancing understanding of the fallopian tube's physical structure and mechanical properties to improve embryo culture for fertility treatment. Specific deliverables include the first quantitative atlas and three-dimensional reconstructions of the inner fallopian tube passage derived from nine human micro computed tomography datasets, with measurements of path tortuosity, cross-sectional geometry, minimum inscribed radius, and fold architecture across major anatomical regions. The project will also generate mechanical property data using spherical probe atomic force microscopy on mouse oviduct tissue.

Beyond the research outputs, the award supports open data dissemination and reusable computational models accessible to researchers and educators nationwide, along with hands-on research training opportunities for undergraduate students. The project aligns with NSF priorities by generating basic science knowledge applicable to use-inspired advances in reproductive health and biotechnology, with long-term potential to improve embryo culture protocols, reduce treatment cycles, and decrease the emotional and financial burden of infertility care.