RICHMOND, Va., Aug. 9, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Good things
come in small packages: sometimes microscopic ones. Students at
Norfolk State University are conducting
research with devices that are so tiny that millions of them can
fit on the head of a pin.
"Thanks to this Dominion Foundation grant, we are able to expand
training capabilities for students to learn the fabrication process
which uses green technology to improve electronic communications,
energy generation and lighting," said Dr. Demetris L. Geddis, associate professor of
engineering and director of the Micro-and Nano Technology Center,
the lead professor for this curriculum.
The Dominion Foundation, the charitable arm of Dominion
Resources, awarded the university $25,000 to expand its teaching and training of
emerging technologies, including microelectronics, optoelectronics,
and microfabrications. The courses enable students to learn
how to design micro- and nano-scale devices for energy generation
and lighting. Green energy devices, such as LED's and solar cells
are created and researched in a "cleanroom" lab environment, where
students get hands-on experience. Just as devices like the computer
chip led to many changes, innovations and career opportunities,
green technology devices are set to do the same.
"It is our expectation that this grant will help NSU students
gain valuable knowledge and practical experience in green energy
technologies," said Hunter A.
Applewhite, president of the Dominion Foundation. "Educating
young engineers about renewable energy is an important step toward
a greener future."
NSU graduate student Pallay Kanukuntla said he enjoys
fabricating something useful and cost effective.
"I have been working on the design of photo detectors and
monitoring undergraduate students' fabrication of solar cells. This
research could be revolutionary in green technology for
communications, leading to improvements such as greater efficiency
and faster internet speeds."
It's not only college students who are impacted by the
microfabrication lab. Rachel Watson,
a first grade teacher in Norfolk
public schools is working in the lab this summer to learn how to
design lesson plans and better relate green energy technology
information to her students.
"By learning about green technology, first graders can
understand the importance of recycling materials and how we can
harness energy from the sun," said Watson. "I can teach them how to
make a solar house out of recyclable materials. It helps us prepare
our students to lead the next generation in Science, Technology,
Engineering and Mathematics fields."
About Dominion
Dominion is one of the nation's largest producers and
transporters of energy. The Dominion Foundation is dedicated to
improving the physical, social and economic well-being of the
communities served by Dominion companies. The Foundation supports
nonprofit causes that meet basic human needs, protect the
environment, support education and promote community vitality. For
more information about Dominion, visit www.dom.com.
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SOURCE Dominion