By Hazel Scott/ASU
Alabama State University has received a $3 million award from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to expand STEM research and education opportunities and strengthen pathways for students pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
The five-year NSF HBCU-UP Implementation Project, “Developing Research and Educational Excellence to Attract and Maintain Students in STEM” (DREAM-STEM), will enhance ASU’s STEM programs while providing students with hands-on research, professional development and educational experiences designed to prepare them for an evolving, high-tech workforce.
“The DREAM-STEM initiative will provide students with meaningful, hands-on opportunities to develop the research, problem-solving, communication and collaboration skills essential for success in STEM education and careers,” said Dr. Vida A. Dennis, director of the Center for NanoBiotechnology Research (CNBR) and professor of microbiology,
The initiative will be led by Dennis, who will serve as Principal Investigator (PI). Dr. Emmanuel Tadjuidje, professor of biology, will serve as Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI).
Through DREAM-STEM, ASU will establish a learning environment that provides year-round opportunities for undergraduate students, along with summer opportunities for community college and high school students. Programming will emphasize critical and analytical thinking, problem-solving, effective communication and collaboration to help students persist in and successfully complete STEM degree programs and pursue STEM careers.
“A major component of the initiative will be ASU’s collaboration with national and international academic institutions, industry partners, private companies and federal, national and public health laboratories,” emphasized Tadjuidje.
These partnerships, noted Tadjuidje, will provide students with exposure to diverse research environments, emerging technologies and potential career pathways while helping them develop the skills and experience needed to compete in the STEM workforce.
DREAM-STEM also will provide faculty-mentored, paid research experiences for students. Through these opportunities, students will develop research skills and competencies while engaging with new scientific and technological innovations. The experiences are designed to strengthen students’ preparation for STEM graduate programs and future research careers.
In addition to expanding student opportunities, the project will support faculty professional development aimed at strengthening STEM education and research at ASU. Faculty will have opportunities to enhance their instructional and research practices, further contributing to student achievement and long-term STEM success.
“The initiative is expected to create an impact that extends beyond the five-year grant period by strengthening ASU’s STEM infrastructure, expanding institutional partnerships and developing a sustained pipeline of students prepared to pursue advanced education and careers in STEM fields,” said Dennis.
The NSF investment underscores ASU’s continued commitment to providing students with innovative educational and research opportunities that prepare them to contribute to the scientific and technological advancements shaping the future.