Restricted Research - Award List, Note/Discussion Page
Fiscal Year: 2023
312 The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (142200)
Principal Investigator: Pournik,Maysam
Total Amount of Contract, Award, or Gift (Annual before 2011): $ 200,000
Exceeds $250,000 (Is it flagged?): No
Start and End Dates: 1/1/23 - 12/31/23
Restricted Research: YES
Academic Discipline: Mechanical Engineering
Department, Center, School, or Institute: Mechanical Engineering
Title of Contract, Award, or Gift: Assessment and Planning of Decarbonization Research and Training at University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Name of Granting or Contracting Agency/Entity:
U.S. Department of Energy
CFDA Link: DOE
81.089
Program Title:
Fossil Energy Research and Development
CFDA Linked: Fossil Energy Research and Development
Note:
SAMs 1.1.1--In this research project we will conduct an R&D scoping study and university self-assessment to evaluate how the university’s current capabilities, expertise, personnel, facilities and equipment, align with FECM objectives. Afterwards, we will identify gaps in capabilities and provide a plan to better prepare UTRGV for potential future competitive solicitations focused on FECM supported technologies. The first objective of this research project is to assess existing UTRGV research thrust areas and associated resource capabilities relevant to the mission of FECM to meet the decarbonization goals set for 2035 and 2050. Data on the level of expertise of the relevant faculty/researchers in the focus research areas along with current awards received from all federal agencies on decarbonization research since January 2017 will be collected. Then available faculty expertise, laboratory equipment and other resource capabilities, relevant course offerings and curriculum will be assessed. Afterwards, the focus will be on second objective, which is to assess missing resources to become more competitive in obtaining R&D grants. This objective will involve providing an estimate of the number, relevant experience, and cost of personnel necessary along with how the existing equipment could be modified and the associated cost to build the required interdisciplinary team to improve UTRGV’s competitiveness to address future FECM research related opportunities. The overarching objective is to develop student training & education plan to ensure UTRGV’s minority students are prepared to conduct R&D projects. Within this objective, current academic courses, programs, and/or curriculum hat aligns with FECM goals will be assessed and then will identify, describe, and develop additional student training. Aligned with this, partner institution, LSU will provide support on student training, including a specialized course on decarbonization, to fill the gaps in our curriculum in a timely manner. The team will also suggest ways in which FECM may support the professional development of minority students from underrepresented and structurally marginalized communities of Rio Grande Valley.
Discussion: No discussion notes