USD and Mexico Research Team
In a significant boost for international scientific collaboration, the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) is channeling USD to Mexico to support groundbreaking research opportunities for undergraduate students. Starting next summer, in 2024, a cohort of talented undergraduates will embark on a transformative research experience in Mexico, delving into the fascinating world of soft matter physics and materials science. This initiative, funded by a prestigious NSF grant, promises to provide invaluable international research experience for students from the University of San Diego and neighboring institutions, setting the stage for future scientific leaders.
This three-year program, a testament to the power of USD investment in global research, is spearheaded by Dr. Ryan McGorty, Associate Professor at the University of San Diego, and Dr. Wylie Ahmed of Cal State Fullerton. The NSF grant, a substantial investment of USD into US-Mexico collaboration, will cover all essential aspects of the program, ensuring accessibility for participating students. This includes comprehensive training, travel expenses, necessary research materials, comfortable housing, and summer stipends, removing financial barriers and fostering a truly enriching experience.
Each summer from 2024 to 2026, selected undergraduates will commence their journey with an intensive two-week “bootcamp” focused on cutting-edge research methodologies. Following this rigorous preparation, the students will be divided into two groups in mid-June, each heading to a leading research institution in Mexico. One group will travel to the Centro de Investigación en Materiales Avanzados (CIMAV) in Monterrey, Nuevo León, while the other will be hosted by the University of Guanajuato in León.
Innovative Research Awaits in Monterrey
At CIMAV-Monterrey, students will engage in pioneering research focused on sustainable materials and advanced manufacturing. Under the guidance of expert mentors, they will explore the potential of biowaste to create innovative inks for 3D printing applications. This research extends to developing 3D-printed structures designed for fog capture, offering a sustainable solution for water collection in arid regions. This hands-on experience will provide students with a unique opportunity to contribute to environmentally conscious solutions through materials science innovation.
Fundamental Discoveries in León
In León, the research focus shifts to fundamental aspects of soft matter physics. Students at the University of Guanajuato will utilize sophisticated equipment, including rheometers, optical microscopes, laser tweezers, and advanced computer simulations. Their investigations will aim to unravel the fundamental principles governing the behavior of complex fluids, such as the specialized inks used in 3D printing. This research track offers a deep dive into the theoretical underpinnings of materials science, fostering a strong foundation in scientific inquiry.
Mentorship by Leading Mexican Scientists
Students participating in this USD-funded program will benefit from the direct mentorship of world-renowned experts in soft materials science in Mexico. In Monterrey, they will work closely with Dr. Tania Ernestina Lara Ceniceros, President of the Mexican Polymer Society, and Dr. José Bonilla Cruz, at the forefront of 3DLab at CIMAV-Monterrey. In León, mentorship will be provided by Dr. Ramón Castañeda-Priego, Dr. Erick Sarmiento Gomez, and Dr. Natalia Rincón, all distinguished researchers in soft matter physics at the University of Guanajuato. This access to leading scientists ensures a high-quality research experience and invaluable professional development.
Beyond the Bench: Cultural Immersion and Professional Growth
The program extends beyond laboratory research, offering a holistic international experience. Students will have opportunities to immerse themselves in Mexican culture, explore the local regions surrounding Monterrey and León, and visit collaborating researchers in major Mexican cities like Mexico City and San Luis Potosí. Furthermore, the program supports students in disseminating their research findings by providing funding to attend and present at prestigious scientific conferences such as the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics & Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) annual conference.
This exceptional USD-Mexico research collaboration represents a significant investment in the future of science and the development of the next generation of researchers. Undergraduate students eager to spend a summer immersed in Mexican culture while conducting cutting-edge research at the intersection of physics, chemistry, and engineering are encouraged to apply in the late fall of 2023. For further information and application inquiries, prospective students are invited to contact Professor McGorty, marking the first step towards an unforgettable and career-defining international research experience.
