Federal Grant Award Summary

Roger Williams University received a $170,282 Project Grant from the National Science Foundation's Division of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental, and Transport Systems (CFDA 47.041, Engineering) awarded August 1, 2026, with completion targeted for July 31, 2029. This collaborative research project, conducted in partnership with the University of Rhode Island, develops an advanced sensor platform utilizing surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) to detect nutrient pollutants—specifically nitrogen and phosphorus compounds—in water systems. The research combines laboratory studies, computational modeling, and field sampling in Narragansett Bay to characterize how charged nutrient species interact with sensor surfaces under varying conditions and real-world water chemistry. Deliverables include optimized sensor designs validated through microscopy and analytical measurement tools, documented performance comparisons between controlled laboratory conditions and environmental water samples, and identification of practical applications for continuous water quality monitoring.

Beyond the technical research objectives, the grant supports workforce development through research assistant and intern positions providing training in technical and professional skills, and produces educational classroom materials for dissemination. The project addresses a critical environmental challenge wherein high nutrient concentrations trigger harmful algal blooms that create oxygen-depleted dead zones, by enabling rapid, spatially-resolved ion detection capabilities applicable to environmental monitoring and industrial wastewater treatment contexts.