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Project Summary: Undergraduate research transforms student’s conceptions of themselves as scientists and encourages participation and retention in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Many barriers exist to carrying out scientifically impactful undergraduate research in nanomaterials at primarily undergraduate institutions (PUIs). Here, we share several practices and design principles that demonstrate pathways to overcome these barriers. Design of modular research projects with low entry barriers is essential. Post-synthetic transformation of nanoparticles is a field that enables such design and has been used successfully to advance nanoscience research while being achievable within undergraduate laboratories. Relatively large, inclusive research communities can be supported through the creation of opportunities with peer- and near-peer mentoring. We also share emerging strategies for enabling routine undergraduate access to transmission electron microscopy and computational chemistry tools, which are amongst the most mainstream characterization techniques in nanoscience yet are frequently absent from the infrastructure at undergraduate-focused institutions.
Publication: Plass, K.E., Krebs, J.K., Morford, J.L., Schaak, R.E., Stapleton, J.E. and van Duin, A.C.T. (2024) Nanomaterials Research at a Primarily Undergraduate Institution: Transforming Nanorods, Undergraduate Research Communities, and Infrastructure. ACS Gold 4, 223-234.
DOI: 10.1021/acsnanoscienceau.4c00005
2DCC Role:2DCC facility was used for the ReaxFF force field development for H/C/Se/S interactions. This project included 2DCC, Penn State Chemistry and users from predominantly undergraduate institution Franklin & Marshall College.