Florida A&M University has been awarded a two-year, $321,000 subaward as part of a national initiative led by the Office of Naval Research aimed at cultivating a diverse and highly skilled STEM workforce. The funding will support efforts to prepare students to address emerging environmental issues and national security challenges, further positioning Florida A&M at the forefront of research, innovation, and workforce development in critical scientific fields.
The subaward is supported through Purdue University’s Office of Naval Research Blue Integrated Partnership (BIP 2.0), funded by a $9.89 million grant from the Office of Naval Research. Leading the project is Kenninger Professor of Renewable Energy and Power Systems in the Purdue University School of Mechanical Engineering, Luciano Castillo, Ph.D. Through this collaboration, Florida A&M University will advance student research and workforce development in geospatial science, nearshore mapping, and AI-enabled marine sensing. According to Provost Allyson L. Watson, Ph.D., the project underscores the university’s commitment to expanding experiential learning opportunities and strengthening federal partnerships that support student success and innovation.
“This project places our students at the intersection of data, environment, and national priorities,” Watson said. “By engaging in applied research alongside federal and academic partners, they develop the skills and perspective required to solve complex problems beyond the classroom.”…