February 9, 2016

The National Science Foundation (NSF) recently awarded Assistant Professor Raj Gounder a Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Program Award for his work related to the controlled synthesis of zeolite catalysts and their applications for environmental protection and for energy and chemical production.

The research aims to develop new synthesis and crystallization strategies to control the distribution of aluminum active sites in zeolite frameworks. Zeolites are used commercially as catalysts to remediate pollution from nitrogen oxides (NOx) in diesel engine exhaust and to convert carbon-based feedstocks to chemicals and fuels. The ability to tailor the distribution of active sites in zeolite catalysts opens new opportunities for technological innovation in these applications, and provides new scientific insights into the chemistry of zeolite crystallization. 

The award also provides funding to integrate the research work with educational and mentoring initiatives in STEM areas for students at all levels. These initiatives include the development of educational modules and activities for K-12 students focused on catalysis and how it impacts their daily lives in ways that improve human health and medicine, protect the environment, and provide access to clean energy.

The NSF CAREER Award is a Foundation-wide activity that offers the National Science Foundation's most prestigious awards in support of junior faculty who exemplify the role of teacher-scholars through outstanding research, excellent education and the integration of education and research within the context of the mission of their organizations.

This project begins February 15, 2016 and will end January 25, 2021. The total grant award is $517K.