NSF launches third generation of engineering research centers with awards totaling $92.5 million

5 new centers will pursue innovations in biorenewable chemicals, green energy systems, communications networks, medical implants and smart lighting

NSF Smart Lighting ERC researchers will investigate and use the distinctive properties of advanced materials to create lighting devices that are similar to light-emitting diodes, but possess fully controllable and... Click here for more information.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) announces the establishment of five new NSF Engineering Research Centers (ERCs) for the development of interdisciplinary research and education programs in partnership with industry. The NSF ERCs share the goal of advancing knowledge, technology, and innovations that address significant societal problems and provide the workforce and technical foundation for economic competitiveness. NSF will invest approximately $92.5 million in the centers over the next five years.

Alex Q. Huang, Progress Energy Distinguished Professor in Electrical and Computer Engineering, will direct the new NSF Engineering Research Center for FREEDM Systems that will be headquartered at North Carolina... Click here for more information.

Since 1985, the ERC program has fostered broad-based research and education collaborations among university and industry partners to focus on technological breakthroughs that lead to new products and services and on strengthening the capacity of U.S. engineering graduates to compete in global markets. The five centers launched this fall initiate a third generation of NSF ERCs that places increased emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship, partnerships with small research firms and international collaboration and cultural exchange.