SC New York News

Congressman Nick Langworthy announced today a federal grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for Alfred University, totaling $480,000. The grant will support a project led by Collin Wilkinson, Assistant Professor of Glass Science and Engineering at Alfred University and the New York State College of Ceramics (NYSCC), titled "RUI: Examining the Discrepancy Between Stress and Enthalpy Relaxation in Borosilicate Glasses: An Experimental and Numerical Study."

This project aims to advance research on glass used across various industries. The NSF emphasized the necessity for more research on advanced glass as it forms a crucial part of digital infrastructure.

“Alfred University is a leader in advanced scientific research and I'm proud to advocate for their work that can ensure America is at the forefront of innovation," said Congressman Langworthy. "This significant grant will invest in the next generation of Southern Tier scientists and engineers. The discoveries made through this funding will lead to consequential academic and industry advancements.”

Alfred University’s high-temperature measurement and lab capabilities are critical components of the research. Specifically, the project seeks to better understand glass relaxation processes to optimize new glass material production while providing hands-on learning opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students.

“Alfred University is proud to be recognized as a leader in glass science and engineering,” said Alfred University President Mark A. Zupan. “We are the only university in the United States offering glass engineering and science degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. We are grateful to Congressman Langworthy for his support in securing this significant grant that will further the research opportunities available to our students, faculty, and staff. This investment recognizes the exceptional work of our faculty, particularly Gabrielle Gaustad ‘04, Dean of our Inamori School of Engineering, and Collin Wilkinson, our lead glass researcher on this project. Their dedication and expertise are driving advancements that will have a lasting impact on the industries that will benefit from the research.”

“Glass relaxation is the process of glass, an unstable material, trying to reach stability. This process has been investigated for a long time but remains largely a mystery. Advanced glasses make up the backbone of our digital infrastructure which are strongly influenced by relaxation; thus, this work's importance,” stated Wilkinson.

“Recently, Dr. Wilkinson launched our undergraduate research institute, which provides undergraduate and graduate students with summer opportunities to work with faculty on some pretty complex materials-science-based challenges,” said Dr. Gabrielle Gaustad, Dean of the Inamori School of Engineering and Associate Provost for Research. “We are excited to be receiving this award through the NSF Ceramics program and thank Congressman Langworthy for his support. This project will further increase hands-on research opportunities students can pursue leading to some very important outcomes while better-preparing students to enter the workforce after graduation.”

The project will expand Alfred University's undergraduate summer research program by offering technical roles, professional development seminars, industry site tours, and opportunities for students to present their research. This initiative aims not only to advance technical glass design but also prepare students for careers in ceramics and glass science.

Alfred University and NYSCC are among only three schools nationwide with dedicated Ceramic Engineering programs; they also stand as the sole PhD-granting institution in Glass Science within higher education in America.