LEAPS-MPS: Understanding Clusteroluminescent Prenylated Deep Eutectic Solvents

NSF Award Search · 01002425DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $250,000 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

This award is being funded by the MPS-LEAPS (Launching Early-Career Academic Pathways) Program and managed by the Broadening Participation (CHE-BP) Program in the Division of Chemistry. With this support, Professor Agatemor and his students at the University of Miami intend to develop and investigate photoluminophores that emit light in an aqueous environment using biocompatible and eco-friendly deep eutectic solvents (DESs). Photoluminophores, molecular entities that emit light after absorbing photons, are used in many aspects of modern life, including medicine, energy, and chemical synthesis. However, most currently used photolumiphores are toxic and quench their emission in an aqueous environment, limiting their real-world applications. Successful implementation of the project described here could enable a holistic description of photoluminescence and potentially lead to the development of sustainable science and technologies, including solar energy harvesting technologies and solar photochemical synthesis procedures. Professor Agatemor will also contribute to strengthen diversity and inclusion in the STEM community in this project by providing hands-on training on chemical synthesis, characterization, and cell biology to students from underrepresented groups in STEM, specifically African American and Hispanic undergraduates. The training opportunity is expected to foster students' interest in STEM careers through interaction with potential role models and mentors. Th

Key facts

NSF award ID
2534302
Awardee
Bucknell University (PA)
SAM.gov UEI
LT7CLFEE1ZW4
PI
Christian Agatemor
Primary program
01002425DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
OFFICE OF MULTIDISCIPLINARY AC, BROADENING PARTICIPATION
Estimated total
$250,000
Funds obligated
$182,922
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
09/01/2025 → 11/30/2026