Center for nanotechnology at coppin state university the center for nanotechnology at coppin state university is set to significantly advance research in renewable and clean energy

The Department of Energy Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy awarded Coppin State University $2,554,262 on July 1, 2026, under the Renewable Energy Research and Development program (CFDA 81.087) to establish and operate the Center for Nanotechnology at Coppin State University.

The center will develop lead-free nanomaterials for renewable energy applications, with emphasis on improving the efficiency and performance of solar cells, batteries, and other clean energy technologies. The university will expand laboratory facilities and acquire advanced characterization tools and equipment to support interdisciplinary research in nanoscience and polymer chemistry. Coppin State University will establish a Ph.D. program in Nanoscience and Advanced Polymers, engage undergraduate and high school students in hands-on STEM research and summer internships, conduct a campus-wide undergraduate research conference and STEM day for high schools, and deliver workforce training in solar cell installation and renewable energy systems for underserved Baltimore youth in collaboration with the Maryland Justice Project.

The award runs from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028, with work performed in Baltimore, Maryland. The program funds balanced, long-term research in renewable energy technologies including solar, biomass, hydrogen and fuel cells, wind, hydropower, and geothermal. Merit review was conducted by the Department of Energy Office of Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation.

This project seeks to develop and deploy innovative nanomaterials that can substantially improve the efficiency and performance of solar cells, batteries, and other renewable energy technologies. Located at coppin state university in maryland, this project builds on existing research and aims to enhance the center's infrastructure and capabilities. Objectives: • advance nanomaterials research: develop cutting-edge, lead-free nanomaterials with superior performance, stability, and environmental sustainability for renewable energy applications. • enhance research infrastructure: expand laboratory facilities and acquire state-of-the-art equipment, including advanced characterization tools, to support interdisciplinary research in nanoscience and polymer chemistry. • strengthen education and workforce development: establish a PH.d. Program in nanoscience and advanced polymers to cultivate future research leaders; engage undergraduate and high school students in hands-on stem research and summer internships; conduct a campus-wide undergraduate research conference and stem day for high schools; and deliver workforce training in solar cell installation and renewable energy systems for underserved baltimore youth in collaboration with the maryland justice project. Expected outcomes: • innovative renewable energy solutions: development of efficient and sustainable nanomaterials for next-generation solar energy technologies. • enhanced research capacity: strengthened infrastructure and technical capabilities at coppin state university, supporting advanced experimentation, training, and collaboration. • expanded stem pipeline: increased participation and retention of students in stem disciplines through experiential learning, mentoring, and research dissemination opportunities. • empowered local workforce: improved technical skills and employment readiness of underserved baltimore youth through targeted renewable energy and solar installation training. • sustainable academic growth: successful establishment of a PH.d. Program in nanoscience and advanced polymers, positioning coppin state university as a regional leader in materials and energy research