Catalyzing Workforce Diversity in Photocatalytic Energy Science
Dr. Kristy L Mardis1, Associate Provost
Co-PI(s): Dr. Jens Niklas2, Dr. Sunshine Silver3, Dr. Rakhim Rakhimov4
1: Chicago State University, Chicago, IL 60628
2: Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL 60439
3: Elmhurst University, Elmhurst, IL 60126
4: Norfolk State University, Norfolk, VA 23504
This project brings together researchers and trainees from Chicago State University (CSU), a Predominantly Black Institution (PBI), Norfolk State University (NSU), a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), Elmhurst University (EU), a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), and the Solar Energy Conversion Group at Argonne National Laboratory (ANL). Working collaboratively, this project seeks to increase the number of historically underrepresented groups in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields while broadening the understanding of solar driven chemical reactions. The project will strengthen the research and scientific opportunities at the three MSIs in collaboration with ANL and provide 12 students annually opportunities to engage in high-impact research focused on questions surrounding artificial and biohybrid photosynthesis. Through a year-round training program, weekly group meetings, and an annual week-long full group meeting at ANL, participants will be provided with ample networking opportunities, culturally responsive mentoring, and professional development. By engaging students in a collaborative research project and culturally responsive mentoring, faculty will work to improve the sociocultural environment and remove obstacles for the advancement of a diverse workforce in the photochemical sciences.
This project builds on complementary techniques to understand and improve hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalysts for solar fuel production. Nickel and cobalt molecular catalysts offer a promising opportunity for the development of new materials for solar fuel production as they are inexpensive, readily synthesized, and can be chemically modified to tune their properties. Computational modeling techniques will be utilized to understand the effect of structural changes on the catalysts. These results will aid in the design of improved biohybrid systems. Electron Paramagnetic Resonance spectroscopy will be utilized to characterize the charge-transfer events and electronic structure of the transition metal complexes and the biohybrid complexes. It is anticipated that the dual approach of an immersive inter-institutional research experience and culturally responsive mentoring as a means of effecting systemic change to support a diverse group of participants will lead to higher retention and persistence of a more diverse workforce.
This research was selected for funding by the Office of Basic Energy Sciences (BES)
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