Addressing the Energy Transition Puzzle Through Combined Experimental and Computational Efforts

Over the years, over reliance on fossil fuels has been identified as one of the main issues leading to global warming. Thus, recent research efforts seek to decarbonize every sector of human activities, especially transportation, industries, domestic use, etc. The developments of new materials through computational and laboratory-based experimental novel designs are pushing the boundaries of energy harvesting and storage technologies. However, this race to avert climate change also means a race for critical minerals. The question remains, can these two events happen sustainably? Will there be energy inclusion, equity, and justice in the end? Are resources equitably available for all actors to resolve these global challenges? These are some of the hot topics of concern lately. Like in many other countries, academic institutions in the United States do not have the same opportunities or equitable resources. Moreover, students from certain communities cannot access the same programs, limiting their ability to explore areas relevant to the global. Minority-serving academic institutions (MSIs) are impacted most by these inequalities and lack of inclusion. Our primary survey showed that many MSIs seemingly follow traditional curricula. Programs and research into materials science and engineering, energy and mineral engineering, etc., are not necessarily clearly offered, probably due to a lack of human and/or infrastructural capacity and equipment. With this proposal, we intend to foster strong collaborations in many aspects, including faculty and student visits, and research collaborations leading to joint grant proposal writings, etc.