# NSF-BSF:  Organization Far From Equilibrium

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · New York University (NY) · $948,000

## Abstract

Non-technical Abstract

The aim of this research is to discover the organizational principles of non-equilibrium statistical mechanics. Equilibrium thermodynamics, developed in the 19th and 20th centuries, is used to calculate how machines, animals and plants work. In equilibrium a forward and a backward sequence of events are equally probable, no work is done. Hence: “if you’re in equilibrium you’re dead”. Luckily our world is far from equilibrium. Thermodynamics tells us how energy, particle concentration, etc., are partitioned when systems interact. We will use mathematical models and closely related experimental systems that can be driven continuously from equilibrium to non-equilibrium. As we leave equilibria, we will study how the relationships between, energy and temperature, density and pressure, etc. change, how the equations can be modified.  Better understanding of non-equilibrium statistical mechanics will lead to more efficient use and generation of energy, new processing techniques, new materials and better understanding of biology and life. International workforce development is also to be strengthened by the junior researchers working together and learning different techniques and approaches to problem solving.

Technical Abstract

Many natural and industrial processes take place far from equilibrium where we lack the fundamental organizational principles, the laws of thermodynamics, available in equilibrium. The aim of the research proposed here is to q

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2414721
- **Awardee organization:** New York University (NY)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** NX9PXMKW5KW8
- **PI:** Paul M Chaikin
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** (MGI) Materials Genome Initiative, BIO-RELATED MATERIALS RESEARCH
- **Estimated total:** $948,000
- **Funds obligated:** $699,966
- **Transaction type:** Continuing Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2029

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2414721

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2414721, NSF-BSF:  Organization Far From Equilibrium. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2414721. Licensed CC0.

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