Project Grant 2554849

The University of Kentucky Research Foundation received a $454,793 Project Grant award from the National Science Foundation (NSF) Division of Materials Research under the Mathematical and Physical Sciences program (CFDA 47.049), effective August 1, 2026 through July 31, 2029. The grant funds research using in situ analysis—advanced microscopy with heating capabilities—to observe atomic-scale changes in real time during solid-state synthesis reactions. The primary deliverables include scientific investigation of three material systems: iron-containing nanorods that transform into hollow magnetic capsules, manganese oxide nanowires that react to form more complex nanowires, and bismuth-iron nanoparticles that combine to form bulk powders with dual electrical and magnetic properties. These studies aim to eliminate the "black box" in solid-state material synthesis, enabling rational design of materials with precise compositions and shapes for applications in medical devices, batteries, and energy storage.

In addition to the core research outputs, the grant supports an educational peer mentoring program at the University of Kentucky designed to enhance undergraduate research participation, scientific communication skills, and retention in science and engineering disciplines. The program pairs more experienced undergraduate students with those earlier in their academic careers to facilitate mentorship and research engagement. This dual focus on advancing materials chemistry knowledge while building research workforce capacity aligns with NSF's mission to strengthen the Nation's scientific enterprise through fundamental research and education.